How Is Our Local Market Fairing So Far in 2025?

How Is Our Local Market Fairing So Far in 2025?

 

 

January sales in our coastal neighborhoods picked up momentum...suddenly we witnessed homes receiving multiple full-price offers after being on the market for 60+ days. The ultra-luxury market also showed positive signs as agents received multiple showing requests...and inventory priced under $1.5M went under contract within days amidst multiple offer scenarios.

With a boost in inventory, as well as the recent decline in rates, our local markets should be continuing on an upward trend as we head into spring.
 
For personalized assistance with your real estate needs, please don't hesitate to reach out.



DID YOU KNOW?
Millennials have been getting richer faster than previous generations.  Over the last 5 years:

  • Millennials (1981-1996) grew their wealth by 137%...and millennial millionaires grew by 144%.
  • Generation X (1965-1980) grew their wealth by 76%...and Gen X millionaires grew 31%.
  • Baby Boomers (1946-1964) grew their wealth by 40%.

Millennials hold more equities and invest in strategies with a higher risk-adjusted return than previous generations, and they've also caught up in real estate holdings. Although older generations still hold more in total net worth and real estate, millennials are growing their holdings at faster rates. (MarketWatch)

DID YOU KNOW?
The new tariffs could increase builder costs anywhere from $7,500 to $10,000 per home, said Rob Dietz, chief economist at the National Association of Home Builders. Estimates from U.S. homebuilders cite that the greatest impact on homebuilders will be from lumber cost increases, which are expected to total about $4,900 per home on average. Lumber prices spiked 5% this week.

DID YOU KNOW?
Many in the crypto community feel strongly that a Strategic US Crypto Reserve should hold only Bitcoin as it’s the most battle-tested and decentralized of the crypto networks. The inclusion of other coins could invite the government to pick winners and losers in the crypto market. Another faction rejects the idea of a U.S. reserve of any cryptocurrencies, as it could potentially undermine the status of the dollar and be easily undone by a future administration. Should the U.S. or any government own the most decentralized asset ever? Could this put too much power in the hands of the federal government, which is always in a 4-year, or even 2-year, cycle? (CNBC)

DID YOU KNOW?
The US consumer is growing tired of cost-cutting advice being shared daily via social media and elsewhere. A recent survey showed cost-cutting fatigue and the number one annoyance: Getting a second job or side hustle. Cooking at home and avoiding eating out is #2 (Suzy Orman's favorite) 42% of consumers said they didn't want to hear about living within a budget...and 33% didn't want to hear about giving up their $5 Lattes.(USA TODAY)

DID YOU KNOW?
Dubai is adding a new round of ostentatious mansions and penthouses priced between $60-120 million as developers court millionaires from around the world. The trappings are increasingly extravagant:  A movable floor for a client’s swimming pool that rises to meld with the garden tiles during parties - a 55 feet by 13 feet single pane of glass to embrace views with an underground room for the giant pane to descend into when lowered - or how about a winding pool to allow residents to swim from the bar to the spa at the other end of the garden? Dubai’s market is bucking a global trend as prime residential prices slow or drop in many other international markets. In 2024, 435 homes priced $10M+ sold in Dubai...and most buyers come from the UK, China, Russia, Pakistan, and India. There are no real estate taxes in Dubai. (Bloomberg)


 

 
 
LOCAL NEWS


Newport Beach Capitol Improvements

Newport Beach city staff recently provided a snapshot of new facilities, including major renovations and maintenance projects...keeping us up-to-date with neighborhood renovations and city infrastructure. Project highlights include a new library and fire station on the peninsula, an aquatics complex at Lower Castaways Park, City trolley expansion, lower harbor dredging, and more. 
Details...
 
 
LET'S EAT!

OCEAN 48

A luxurious, warm, fine-dining seafood and steak concept, Ocean 48 is one of the newest restaurants in the Fashion Island area.  A top-to-bottom renovation of the former Fig & Olive, Ocean 48 offers unique dining spaces, from poolside dining cabanas and the lounge to multiple dining rooms and floor-to-ceiling glass private dining suites. Popular appetizers and side dishes include caviar cones, chicken fried lobster tails, and the chive and cream cheese-stuffed hashbrowns...and don't miss the chef-recommended entrees:  Kobe A5 wine-fed strip, Mediterranean branzino, and the Gold-Plus Grade wagyu New York strip from Snake River Farms.  "A must" for your next elevated dining experience!
Details...
 
 
AROUND TOWN

 
Don't Tell Comedy

A night of comedy is something we can all enjoy...there's nothing better than letting yourself loose in laughter! Comedy is at its best when there’s a surprise – that’s why Don’t Tell Comedy puts on events where the performers and location are kept secret until the day of the show. With over 150 cities already in on the joke, you never know where they'll set up shop, or who might pop in. Want to be in on the secret? Check out the link below for an upcoming show near you, just don't tell anyone!
Details...
 
 
DESIGN TRENDS

Feng Shui Your Living Room

If your living room feels a bit off, you’re not alone. The living room is the space where we spend quality time with ourselves, family, and friends...and taking the initiative to create an energetic nourishing space is essential.  But before you rearrange your furniture for the millionth time, consider consulting the ancient wisdom of feng shui—the 5,000-year-old Chinese practice is all about creating harmony between you and your environment through thoughtful placement of objects, colors, and materials.
Details...
 
 
 



 
It's an honor to be featured in the "Women In Real Estate" February issue - Discover Luxury Homes Magazine

With over 17 years of experience, my passion is providing personalized service for each client..helping them achieve success with dedication and strategic goals.

Forever grateful for my clients and their referrals, I'm proud to offer the power of Compass' technology-driven systems to properly align them for success.
 
 
ORANGE COUNTY HOUSING REPORT

 

The 2025 luxury real estate market in Orange County continues to show rising prices and shifting inventory levels.  

Sellers:  With rising prices and an increase in inventory, strategic pricing and presentation are key.

Buyers:  More inventory means opportunity, but competition remains strong in high-end markets.

Thinking about making a move? Contact me and let's talk strategy.
 
 
SOLD


113 Topaz, Balboa Island

3 Bed | 5 Bath | $6,395,000 List

A fabulous new construction home, with beautiful views.
 
 
LEASED - OFF MARKET

 
122 Via Palermo, Lido Isle

4 Bed | 3 Bath | $15,000/month - Fully Furnished

A beautifully remodeled coastal home, perfect Lido living.
 
 
 


 
 
 

Work With Leslie

Leslie Thompson's detailed approach and dedication are unsurpassed. Clients depend on her personalized service and recognize that her innate skills consistently deliver exceptional results. Whether you're looking to buy or sell, Leslie looks forward to helping you reach your real estate goals with utmost care.

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