Inside the most EXPENSIVE ZIP code in the US: California enclave Newport Coast has homes selling for up to $61 MILLION – but insiders say properties in the area are worth more than that
A beachfront community in California has homes selling for a whopping $61 million, but insiders say properties in the area are worth more than that.
Newport Coast has become a vibrant IT destination, offering world-class real estate to suit a range of lifestyles.
By July 2023, the tiny enclave had the highest median home price in the US, according to new data.
Real estate agent John Stanaland says demand in the area has been high and increasing as more people seek the Newport area lifestyle in a variety of price points.
Each week, he covers a wide variety of offerings, from $1 million to over $50 million, in the Orange County area, which includes Newport Beach, San Clemente, Irvine, and Laguna Beach. He currently has over $415 million in real estate under his name on the market.
This Newport Beach home will cost the buyer at least $32 million
Potential homebuyers need $20 million for this 6-bedroom house at 130 Monarch Bay Drive in Dana Point
The West Coast holds some of the most sophisticated, technologically advanced properties
The incredible 9-bedroom home in Laguna Beach is priced at $35 million
“Sales in different parts of Orange County are certainly setting new price benchmarks, with Newport leading the way,” he says.
“Some homes in the Newport area are so luxurious that they could easily sell for $100 million if they came on the market today.”
In zip code 92657, professionals can thrive in a large business center, while renowned golf courses, beaches and fishing towns provide the ideal haven for a relaxed lifestyle.
The wider area, made popular by TV shows like The OC, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, and Selling The OC, is known for its affluence.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have sold many homes over the decades, and the level of luxury I’ve encountered is incredible,” says Stanaland.
“This is truly a one-stop community that caters to just about anyone and is also a convenient, accessible area to live in. The California dream, but without the traffic.’
He says the real estate market in the Newport area offers a lot of variety, from charming 1930s cottages to the most sophisticated, technologically advanced properties on the West Coast.
Features of the property include the advanced Control4 automation system, motorized blinds, solar panels (including the pool heating system), bulletproof rooms and retractable TVs
Laguna Beach in Orange County is proving popular with homebuyers
In addition to the two main residences, there is a sizable fully equipped private gatehouse above a 3 car garage
Sprawling estates are a common find in Newport, with homes perched on cliffs and multi-generational buildings at the top of long driveways.
‘Almost all architectural styles are also represented: from bungalows to Mediterranean, modern farmhouse, contemporary, you name it.’
He currently has a listing on Bayside Drive with a $32 million price that includes shared ownership on one of the longest docks on the west coast, which can accommodate a 25-foot vessel.
Another house, currently available at 11 Montage Way, is located in one of the most exclusive resorts and features a private underground floor with a bar and large conference room.
‘Luxury has become the norm for the area. People who want to be in California come here from larger cities/urban areas such as San Francisco or Los Angeles.’
Stanaland says part of the surge in popularity came after the pandemic.
Buyers realized how much this part of California had to offer; it’s like an oasis,” he explained.
“It’s a really enjoyable place to live, which many buyers who are looking for a change from higher-density areas appreciate.”
Buyers are flocking to the West Coast in hopes of scoring a beachfront property
Located on a third of an acre, the residence at 11 Montage Way is one of only 13 private residences in the resort
This modern Laguna Beach estate is up for nearly $40 million
This property has a main residence with four en-suite bedrooms and a powder room, as well as a free-standing pool pavilion with two bedrooms and two bathrooms.
The area contains approximately 2,500 homes with a plethora of oceanfront options.
While they want high prices, the houses don’t always sell overnight, but Stanaland says that’s to be expected.
“It’s common to see these houses standing for six to 12 to 18 months,” he says.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to have been able to sell a lot of trophy properties during my career and realize that it’s about positioning luxury listings correctly and waiting it out.
“New buyers enter the market every day, patience is the key.”