By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Laguna Niguel has long attracted buyers who want space, scenery, and proximity to the coast without the price tag of being directly on the sand. On the surface, it can feel straightforward. Great neighborhoods, strong schools, and easy access to Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and major freeways. Laguna Niguel open-space and hillside views that influence real estate value and buyer demand.   Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Re

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Buying a home in Laguna Beach when you don’t live nearby is a very different experience than buying locally. You’re relying on photos, videos, and someone else’s interpretation of what really matters. And in a market as nuanced as Laguna Beach, those details can make or break the decision. Laguna Beach coastline overlooking the Pacific Ocean — local market insight and coastal real estate guidance by Missy Wiesen, REAL

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Choosing between Dana Point and Newport Beach is a common question for buyers relocating to Coastal Orange County or considering a move within the area. Both cities offer ocean access, strong property values, and distinct coastal identities, yet they function very differently in everyday life. Newport Beach vs. Dana Point coastal comparison — harbor, shoreline, and neighborhood perspectives. Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | 9

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. TL;DR Families choose Newport Beach for its walkable neighborhoods, outdoor lifestyle, strong long-term value, and a community-oriented coastal way of life. Dover Shores entrance sign in Newport Beach, California. Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc., • 949-887-6644 • Missy@MissySellsOC.com  • https://missysellsoc.com What makes Newport Beach appealing to families? For many families, choosing where

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Buying a beach house in Newport Beach represents a significant investment requiring far more due diligence than standard real estate transactions. Beyond the typical considerations of price, location, and property condition, beachfront and beach-close properties involve unique challenges including coastal hazards, insurance complexities, maintenance requirements, rental regulations, HOA restrictions, and environmental

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. The first full week of January 2026 reveals early momentum building in Coastal Orange County real estate markets as buyers return from holiday breaks and motivated sellers begin launching properties. With 483 active listings across Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, and Dana Point, inventory remains tight while 146 pending sales and 53 new pendings in just the past 14 days demonstrate that ser

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Timing your home purchase in Coastal Orange County can mean the difference between competing against minimal buyers in a strategic negotiation environment or facing multiple offer situations with 20-30% more competing buyers during the spring surge. The 2026 market offers a strategic window for informed buyers, especially in Q1 before spring competition intensifies, with mortgage rates stabilizing around 6%, inventory

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Timing your home sale in Coastal Orange County can mean the difference between capturing premium pricing at 99.5-100.6% of list price within 15 days or accepting 3-7% less after sitting on the market for 30+ days. The 2025 market data proved definitively that correct pricing from day one and strategic launch timing create measurable financial advantages, while overpricing and poor timing result in quantifiable losses

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. The 2026 Coastal Orange County real estate market is shaping up as a year of strategic opportunity with mortgage rates projected to hold in the 5.9-6.5% range, spring inventory expected to surge 20-30% countywide, and modest but steady price appreciation of 2-5% across most coastal markets. Understanding these projected trends helps buyers and sellers make informed timing decisions that can significantly impact transa

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. The 2025 Coastal Orange County real estate market defied national trends and conventional expectations, demonstrating remarkable resilience through inventory constraints, strong cash buyer presence, and strategic pricing power. While the broader U.S. housing market struggled with affordability concerns and softening demand, coastal communities including Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar, Laguna Beach, Dana Point, and Lagu

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Newport Beach represents one of Southern California's most lucrative real estate investment markets, with strong rental demand, consistent appreciation, and diverse property types ranging from beachfront condos to luxury single-family homes. Finding the right investment property requires access to both on-market and off-market opportunities, along with expertise in Newport Beach's unique micro-markets and investment r

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Navigating the Coastal Orange County real estate market requires local expertise, market knowledge, and a partner who understands your unique goals. Whether you're buying your first home, selling a family property, investing in rental real estate, or purchasing a vacation home near the beach, working with the right REALTOR® makes a significant difference in your experience and outcomes. Understanding what services a r

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Newport Beach offers some of Southern California's most desirable beachfront and beach-close vacation home opportunities, attracting buyers seeking second homes, investment properties, and future retirement residences. The city's diverse neighborhoods provide options ranging from charming beach cottages to oceanfront estates, each with distinct characteristics, price points, and proximity to the sand. Understanding wh

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. The luxury coastal home aesthetic in Orange County is evolving rapidly, moving beyond traditional beach house clichés toward more sophisticated, grounded interiors. Understanding current design trends matters whether you're updating your home for personal enjoyment or preparing to sell in a competitive market where buyers pay premium prices for homes that feel current and well-designed. Today's coastal Orange County i

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | eXp Realty of California, Inc. Coastal Orange County offers some of Southern California's most desirable beach communities, making it a prime location for short-term furnished rentals. Whether you're relocating for work, testing out a neighborhood before buying, or simply enjoying an extended beach vacation, finding the right furnished rental can transform your coastal living experience. The rental landscape in communities like Newport Beach, Lagun

The Orange County housing market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer, an investor, or simply curious about real estate, understanding the trends in this region is essential. This article explores the key factors shaping the market, the types of buyers active in the area, and practical advice for navigating the current environment. Key Orange County Housing Trends to Watch Orange County has experienced significant shifts in housing

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | at The Pugh Group brokered by eXp Realty TL;DR While Orange County inventory dropped 5% this holiday season, Coastal OC markets like Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, and Laguna Beach are defying seasonal trends with tight inventory, motivated buyers, and premium pricing. This creates a rare opportunity for well-prepared sellers before the spring surge. The Holiday Season Isn't Slowing Down Coastal Orange County The holiday

Finding the perfect home or selling your property can be a complex journey. Every neighborhood has its unique characteristics, market trends, and opportunities. Unlocking tailored real estate solutions in your area means accessing personalized strategies that fit your specific needs. Whether you are a first-time buyer, an experienced investor, or looking to sell, understanding how to leverage local expertise can make all the difference. Understanding Local Real Estate Solutio

By Missy Wiesen, REALTOR® | at eXp Realty of California, Inc. TL;DR In Coastal Orange County's three strongest markets (Dana Point, Laguna Niguel, and Newport Beach), waiting for lower rates typically costs $60,000-$320,000+ due to rapid appreciation that far outpaces any mortgage rate savings. Not all Coastal Orange County markets are created equal. While some communities are experiencing pricing adjustments, three markets stand out for their exceptional strength: Dana Point

Buying a home is a dream for many, but it can often feel out of reach. High prices, complex processes, and financial hurdles make homeownership seem impossible for some. However, with the right strategies and support, owning a home can become a reality for everyone. This article explores practical ways to make homeownership achievable, offering clear guidance and actionable tips to help you navigate the journey with confidence. Understanding the Challenges of Home Buying Help