Laguna Niguel Real Estate

With the hot summer days this season, homes and condos with pools have been on the minds of many home seekers.  A detached home with a private pool is nice, but the maintenance can add up, plus the added risk to the homeowner.  A good pool cleaning company will charge around $65 to $85 per month for most private pool homes in Laguna Niguel, and if you keep your private pool heated, the monthly costs will be a good bit higher. 

A more practical solution it to buy a home or condo with an association pool.  The pool maintenance and upkeep is included in the association dues, and many association pools are heated for part of the season.  Also, the property management usually does a better job on keeping up with swimming pool safety codes then an individual homeowner would.

Another interesting fact about private pool homes is the the cost of the pool is never re-cooped..  In other words, if you buy a detached home and have a pool installed for say $70,000, and down the road you decide to sell, you would be lucky to get an additional $10,000 more for the home as compared to a similar home down the street with no swimming pool.  That is why I always tell my buyer clients, “if you want a home with a pool, buy a home with an existing private pool or an association pool, for you will save a lot of money.”   There are plenty of homes on the market that have either a private or an association pool.  for example, today there are 179 homes and condos on the market for sale in Laguna Niguel, and 123 of these listings either have a private pool, or an association pool… that’s 68%.

We compiled a list of all of the detached home and attached condo subdivisions in Laguna Niguel, CA. that include an association swimming pool, as follows:

If you would like to see all homes or condos listed for sale in Laguna Niguel that  have a private or association swimming pool, then please visit our website, or feel free to email us at:  Info@SearchOCHomes.com

In today’s challenging market conditions, homes for sale are setting on the market much longer then they used to just 18 months ago.  Back in the Spring of 2005′, the average Days on Market for detached homes sold and closed in Laguna Niguel was 47 days, and in a 3 month period back then, there were 231 homes sold, and 65 that did not sell.  Today, the Days on Market for homes that sold and closed in the past 90 ways was 72 days, with a total of 102 homes sold and 128 that did not sell (canceled).   So what can you do to increase the odds of selling your home ?   Below are 10 renovation/fix-up tips you can use that can increase the value and marketability of your home for sale in Laguna Niguel, CA.

1. An Updated Kitchen.  Kitchens are critical.  Today, people like a big kitchen with lots of workspace, along with some special amenities.  The kitchen often sells the home.  If it isn’t huge, update counters, fixtures, fresh paint, etc.

2. Modern Bathrooms.  Buyers are looking for master baths that give a little room to roam.  The big asset is a spa or whirlpool tub.  Other features:  separate showers with steam and/or multiple jets, a double sink and a separate room for the toilet.  Of course, make sure the plumbing system and the water heater are more than adequate.  It also helps to have a window over the sink.

3. A Well-Appointed Master Suite.  A master suite is a retreat from the world for most people.  They would like a lounging area and walk-in closets, as well as the luxurious bathroom.  The room needs to feel cozy so if the flooring is not fully carpeted, then make sure there are throw rugs, especially at the bedside so people can put their feet on something warm when they first get out of bed.  The room should be light and airy, with a spacious feel, so if the room in itself is not large, clear out any clutter when showing the house.

4. Natural Materials.  People like the natural materials – ceramic tile, hardwood floors, granite, as opposed to linoleum, which doesn’t wear well.

5. Curb Appeal.  Clean and neat are first priority, along with well-manicured landscaping.  Add flowers for color and a good first impression but make sure everything looks planned out and organized.  Keep plants/trees from overshadowing the windows and the entrance but make sure there are plants at the entrance for a welcoming appeal.  Keep toys, trash cans, hoses, etc. out of the way as much as possible.

6. A Light, Airy and Spacious Feel.  People buy space and light.  Very few people feel comfortable walking into a dark cave. 

7. Good Windows.  It is important to have many windows, with no cracks in the glass or cracked caulking.  Make sure all windows are properly insulated.

8. Landscaping.  Mature trees are worth $1,000.  Have outdoor spaces with touches such as pergolas, Victorian garden swings and maybe a fountain.  Don’t let anything get overgrown but have enough plants to make the place feel like you’ve put effort into the comfort of good landscaping.

9. Storage.  Very important to have more than adequate storage throughout the house.

10. Garage.  If there is a garage, make sure it is finished – dry walls rather than exposed wood planks, finished, perhaps epoxy flooring – and make sure there is lots of storage.  One or more windows would be good also, to make sure that there is plenty of ventilation.

It’s a fact that the Orange County and the entire southern California residential real estate market is going through a correction.  But so far, the Laguna Niguel, Ca. real estate market for detached homes has held up well… let me illustrate.

In the past 90 days, there have been 100 detached homes that have sold and closed escrow in Laguna Niguel.  These homes range in price from a low of $575,000 for a 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1,1501 square foot home on Mira Verde in the Altamar tract, on up to a high of $6,725,000 for a 6 bedroom, 9.5 bath, 7,000 square foot estate on Monarch Crest street in the Monarch Point Custom homes neighborhood, which boasts of panoramic ocean views.   The median price of these 100 homes was $880,000 and the average price $1,215,550.  The average price per square foot was $444/SqFt and the average days on market was 68 days.

Comparing these prices to exactly one year ago, we find that there were 138 detached homes that sold and closed escrow in Laguna Niguel in this same 3 month period of time last year.  These home ranged in price from $578,000 for a 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1,326 square foot home on Via Entrada in the Del Prado Villas tract, on up to $4,000,000 for a 5 bedroom, 6 bath, 6,041 square foot home on Carmel Woods street in the Ocean Ranch subdivision.  The median priced detached home sold last year was $970,000 and the average priced home was $1,114,528.  The average price per square foot was $443/SqFt and the average days on market was 60 days.

Comparing last years sales today to today, we find that the Average price of a detached home has gone up by about 9%, and the Median priced home sold dropped by about 9%, and the Average Price per Square Foot has essentially stayed the same (increased by 0.2%).. So which number do you believe.  From our experience, we have found that the Average Price per Square Foot is the most accurate statistical method to determine the overall home price movement of an area over time.   The simple Average of prices can be highly influenced by a couple of high priced sales, and both the simple Median and Average of home prices can be skewed by a change in buying habits… for example, fewer sales numbers in the lower price ranged neighborhood and higher sales rates in the higher priced neighborhoods (which is what has been happening in the past year or so).   

To round out the analysis,  we’ll also look at homes Pending and Active for sale.  Currently there are 302 detached homes that are Active for sale in Laguna Niguel.  These homes range in price from a low of $574,900 for a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,303 square foot home on Casitas Ct in the Lake Park tract, on up to $7,900,000 for a 7 bedroom, 7.5 bath, 8,780 square foot estate on Asilomar street in the Ocean Ranch subdivision.  The    Median of these 302 detached homes is $1,075,000 for a typical 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 2,500 SqFt home. 

There are currently 47 detached homes that have are Pending under contract in escrow.  These homes range in price from a low of  $655,000 (actually range priced from $639,000 to $669,000) for a 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,897 square foot home on Caswell Ct in the Lake Park tract, on up to $7,295,000 for a 10 bedroom, 10 bath, 22,000 square foot estate on Morning Drive in the Bear Brand Ranch neighborhood.

If you would like to see all home listed for sale in Laguna Niguel, visit our website at:  Laguna Niguel Homes for Sale.   If you would like to see the inside of any home or condo currently listed for sale, please feel to contact us anytime at:  949-388-3396 or Info@SearchOCHomes.com

Click Here to Search the MLS for Laguna Niguel Homes for Sale

The beautiful homes of Hillcrest Estates in Laguna Niguel were built in the years from 1999 to 2007. There are a total of 185 homes built in the tract by S and S Homes and is now completely built out. Hillcrest Estates homes range in size from 2,200 SqFt to 4,100 SqFt and encompass 10 unique floor plans with numerous exterior elevation options. 

This gated community is perched on top of the hillside just west of Alicia Parkway and south of Aliso Creek Rd., thereby offering many homesites with panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys and canyon. These elegant homes boast of modern California architectures, large lots and many of the homes have three car garages. 

The school district that serves this new community is the award winning Capistrano School district.  The public elementary is Moulton Elementary, the middle school is Aliso Middle School, and the public high school being Aliso Niguel High.  This fine community of Hillcrest Estates is governed by a home owners association and the monthly dues are currently $185 per month, and there is no Mello-Roos tax.

Currently, as of the beginning of August 2007, there are 7 homes available for sale in Hillcrest Estates, ranging in price from $1,199,000 on up to $2 Million.  The price per Square Foot for these homes for sale currently ranges from approx. $420 to $507.  Homes sold in the past six months range from a one story model that sold for $1,200,000 and closed escrow on May 31, 2007 to our largest model that sold for $2,000,000 and closed escrow on March 12, 2007.

If you would like more information about Hillcrest Estates, please contac Jim Duffy, at:  949-842-2008.  If you would like to view all homes listed for sale in Laguna Niguel simply visit our website at:  Laguna Niguel Real Estate

Nestled in the foothils of Laguna Niguel is the community of Beacon Hill Highlands.  Many homes offer distant views and all enjoy cool ocean breezes.  Beacon Hill Highlands is located near the intersection of Niguel Rd. and Camino Del Avion.  This upscale community offers resot like ammenities such as; 3 swimming pools, 3 spas, 6 tennis courts, and walk or bike to local tennis clubs, beaches, golf courses, shopping, fine dining and the coastal resorts! These great neighborhood is perfect for the active family.  

Beacon Hill Highlands consists of 1008 detached single family homes (SFR) which were constructed in the mid 1980’s by the prominent builders of Taylor Woodrow. Kept in remarkable condition since construction, these homes come in a variety of floor plans as follows:

• A- Azure Sea- 2 bedrooms 2 baths, 1,417 sqft, 2 car garage
• B- Azure Sea Alt.- 3 bedrooms 2 baths, 1,417 sqft, 2 car garage
• C- Sea Breeze- 2 bedrooms 2 baths, 1,812 sqft, 2 car garage
• D- Coral Sea- 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths, 1,939 sqft, 2 car garage
• E- Sea Drift- 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths, 2,043 sqft, 2 car garage

Each home is complete with a two car garage, walk-in closets, interior laundry room, landscaped surroundings, vaulted ceilings and at least one fireplace. Home owner’s association dues are approximately $139 per month which includes maintenance fees of the wonderful neighborhood amenities. Beacon Hill Highlands compromises of the following streets: Ashburton Place, Byron Close, Haverhill Rd., and Marble Head Place.

Home prices in Beacon Hill Highlands range in price from the mid $800K’s on up to $1.3 Million.  The Plan A and B will range in price from the low to high $800K’s.  Plan C, D and E will range in price from the mid $900K’s on up to $1.3 Million.  (Home prices are subject to change over time.)

Have kids in need of a great education in public schools?  The community of Beacon Hill Highlands is located within the award winning Capistrano Unified School District. The grade school is John Malcolm Elementary, located within walking distance. The intermediate school is the blue ribbon school of Niguel Hills Middles School, and the upper classes are conducted at Dana Hills High School, located just blocks away from the neighborhood.

If you would like to get more information about Beacon Hills Highlands, or if you would like to see the inside of the homes currently listed for sale, please feel free to contact us at:  949-388-3396, or email us at:   Info@SearchOCHomes.com   Click here if you would like to view all homes listed for sale in Laguna Niguel, CA.

Today, there are 230 detached homes available for sale in Laguna Niguel, CA.  These homes range in price from $619,000 for a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1,700 square foot home in the Del Prado Villas tract.  Up to $7,695,000 for a 6 bedroom, 9.5 bath, 7,615 square foot ocean view estate  located on Monarch Crest street in the Monarch Point Custom homes.  For these 230 homes, the Median  priced home is $1,74,675 and the average price is $1,388,584.  The average days on market is 70 and the average price per square foot is $473. 

There are currently 52 detached homes under contract in escrow in Laguna Niguel.  These home range in price from $549,900 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,589 square foot home on Via Miramar in the Villa Pacifica.  The highest priced home sold in escrow in Laguna Niguel is $2,495,000 for a 5 bedroom, 4 bath, 4,200 square foot ocean view estate on Little Pond street in the Ocean Ranch tract. The median priced home in escrow is $925,000.

In the past 90 days, there were 95 homes that have sold and closed escrow in Laguna Niguel.   The lowest priced home sold in this time period was $565,000 for a 2 bedroom, 2 bath with 2 car garage house on Paseo Del Sol street in the Villa Pacifica tract.  The highest price home sold in Laguna Niguel in the past 90 days was $6,750,000 for a 5 bedroom, 7.5 bath, 8,300 square foot estate with an ocean view on Searidge street in the Bear Brand Ranch subdivision.  The median price home sold was $865,000 and the average priced home sold was $1,083,293.  The average price per square foot was $408 and the average days on market was 91 days.  The average home sold in the last 90 days in Laguna Niguel was a 3 bedroom, 3 bath 2,453 square foot house.

We’ll compare today’s Laguna Niguel real estate prices, with those from one year ago.  During the same 90 day period of time one year ago, there were 97 homes that sold and closed escrow.  The median priced home that sold one year ago was $899,999 and the average priced home was $1,155,688.  The average days on market was 59 days and the average price per square foot was $424.  The median and average prices have dropped a small amount of around 5% and the average price per square foot has decrease about 5% as well, compared to last year.

If you would like to see all home listed for sale in Laguna Niguel, visit our website at:  Laguna Niguel Real Estate.   If you would like to see the inside of any home or condo currently listed for sale, please feel to contact us anytime at:  949-388-3396 or Info@SearchOCHomes.com

This article will attempt to quantify the value of an Ocean View for a detached home, as compared to a detached home that does not have an Ocean View.  In order to yield the most accurate results we have selected detached homes in the city of Laguna Niguel located in a regional area defined by page 971 of the area Thomas Guide map.  The reason for this location selection, is that as homes get close to the beach or are beach front, the price of the real estate sky rockets due to the close proximity to the beach.  So analyzing Ocean View homes in Dana Point for instance, would yield less accurate results. The closet that detached homes get to the beach in Laguna Niguel is about 2 miles.  Therefore, we are more or less evaluating the value of just the Ocean View without the added interference of being beach front or bluff front.

In the past 12 months, home prices have not changed very much either up or down, so we will average prices over the past 12 months to yield more accurate results.  In the past 12 months, there have been 43 detached homes that have sold that are located in Thomas Guide page 971 and DO NOT have an Ocean View.  The median price of these non-ocean view homes is $1,195,000 and the average price is $1,266,000.  The average price per square foot is $421 and the average home size is 2,756 square feet.

For detached homes in Laguna Niguel located in Thomas Guide page 971 that have an Ocean View, there were 38 such homes that sold and closed in the past 12 months.  The median price for these Ocean View homes was $1,749,000 and the Average price was $2,190,000.  The average price per square foot was $548 and the average sized homes was 3,903 square feet. 

Using the just the Average price to evaulte the value of an Ocean View would yield less accurate results.  Averages are skewed by a few homes that may be priced very high and don’t represent the typical home as well as the Median price does.  Also, the Median Price is not a perfect barometer, for as we can see, Ocean View homes tend to be larger in Laguna Niguel with an average size of 3,903 SqFt as compared to 2,756 SqFt for non-Ocean View homes.   Therefore, we will use the Average Price per Square foot for our analysis. 

Assuming a home in Thomas guide page 971 with 2,900 square feet, with NO Ocean View, the typical home that sold was $421 times 2,900SqFt or $1,220,900, in the past 12 months.  Comparing this to homes with an Ocean view, yields $548 times 2,900 SqFt, or $1,589,200.  The net result is that an Ocean View approximately adds $365,000 on average to the value of a detached home in Laguna Niguel, CA.  We conducted this analysis on other cities and yielded similar results, as long as homes that are beach front or bluff front are excluded from the analysis.   

If you would like to view all homes listed for sale in Laguna Niguel, please visit our website at:  Laguna Niguel Real Estate.  Fell free to call us anytime with questions at:  949-388-3396

Del Prado condos are located close to the corner of Crown Valley Parkway and Greenfield Drive.  This beautiful condominium community consists of 444 attached condos and 66 detached patio homes. 

There are 7 townhomes currently active for sale in Del Prado, ranging in price from $400,000 for a 1 bedroom, 1 bath, 891 square foot condo on Via Azul, up to $624,900 for a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1,700 square foot detached patio home on Via Del Aqua.  The average price of these 7 condos is $544,928 and the average price per square foot is $408/SqFt.  The average days on market is 76 days.

Today there are 2 condos sold in escrow, with an asking price of $415,000 on Via Terracina and $505,000 on Via Janeiro.  In the past 90 days, there were 9 condos that have sold and closed escrow in Del Prado in Laguna Niguel.  The lowest priced condo sold was $366,500 for a 1 bedroom, 1 bath unit on Via Terracina, and the most expensive was $640,000 for a 3 bedroom. 2.5 bath, 1,700 square foot detached patio home on Via Mirada.  the median priced home was $515,000 and the average price of the homes sold in the past 90 days was $508,311. The average price per square foot was $384/SqFt and the average says on market was 97 days.

Click the following link if you would like more information about the Del Prado community in Laguna Niguel.  If you would like to view all homes and condos for sale please visit our website at:  Laguna Niguel MLS homes for sale.  If you would like a private showing of any of these homes for sale, please feel free to contact Vincent Bindi at:  949-388-3396 or drop us an email at:  Info@SearchOCHomes.com

Laguna Niguel real estate offers many homes with panoramic views of the pacific ocean and Catalina Island.  Portions of Laguna Niguel are located within 2 miles of the coast. And due to the hilly terrain throughout most of Laguna Niguel, many home and condominium subdivisions boast of majestic ocean views.  Below is a list of all of the Laguna Niguel detached home and Condominium subdivision that offer properties with Ocean Views:

CLICK HERE FOR A LIST OF ALL OCEAN VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN LAGUNA NIGUEL

The cost of a detached home with an ocean view will vary widely dependent upon the neighborhood, size of the home, age of the home, condition of the property, and if the view is a sweeping panoramic ocean view or a so called pick-a-boo Ocean view.  Currently, there are 51 detached homes in Laguna Niguel that offer some sort of Ocean view and these 51 homes range in price from a low of  $849,999 for a 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1,733 square foot home in Beacon Hill with a small Ocean view, up to $10,250,000 for a 6 bedroom, 8 bath, 10,000 square foot estate with sweeping panoramic Ocean view located in Bear Brand Ranch custom estates.  The median price of the these 51 detached Ocean view homes is $1,595,000.

Likewise, the cost of an Ocean view condominium can vary widely as well due to the same above mentioned factors.  Currently, there are 36 condos for sale in Laguna Niguel that offer an Ocean view.  The lowest priced condo is a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,206 square foot condominium with a peek-a-boo Ocean view for $499,900 located in the Windrift in Beacon Hill. 
The most expensive is a 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3,182 square foot condo priced at $1,995,000 in the Laguna Sur tract boasting of a sweeping panoramic Ocean view. The median price of these 36 condos is $879,900.

To view all homes and condos currently listed for sale in Laguna Niguel with Ocean Views, visit our website at:  Laguna Niguel Ocean View Homes.  If you would like to see the inside of any of these homes or need more information, please contact us at 949-388-3396.