The Green Sheet | Sept/Oct 2023

THE GREEN SHEET

MESSAGE FROM OUR FOUNDER

I wanted to take a moment to share with you the story behind Inhabit Real Estate and explain why I’ve been so dedicated to serving our community for nearly three decades. I’ve always considered each of you not just as clients, but as trusted partners on this journey. Having been deeply rooted in San Clemente for over 50 years, I’ve witnessed the ebb and flow of our community. That’s why I decided to establish Inhabit Real Estate.

Being locally owned and operated has been a fundamental choice for us because we wanted to reflect the close-knit nature of San Clemente. We are not just another faceless real estate company; we are your neighbors, friends, and advocates. I often say, ‘We started Inhabit because we believe in putting our community first.’ Our mission revolves around providing you with a level of personalized, transparent, and innovative real estate services that not only meet but exceed your expectations. We’ve invested in our local expertise, extensive network, cutting-edge technology, and an in-depth understanding of our hometown to make your real estate journey as smooth as possible.

But our commitment goes beyond just business. Upholding the highest ethical standards is a core value for us because you, our clients, deserve nothing less. We want you to have complete trust in us, just as you would with a long-time friend. Our team operates like a tight-knit family, with collaboration and growth at the forefront. We are dedicated to supporting each other to provide you with the best service possible. After all, your success is our success, and we cherish our long-term partnerships.

Lastly, but most importantly, giving back to the community we both hold dear is something that drives us. We are not solely focused on transactions; we are passionate about making a positive impact right here in San Clemente, the place we both call home. So, my friends and clients, Inhabit Real Estate isn’t just a business venture; it’s a labor of love and a commitment to serving each one of you and our wonderful community. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us, and here’s to many more successful years together!

Doug Echelberger, Founder

ALTEA FEATURED RESIDENCE

Nestled within Talega’s serene Bella Vista community in San Clemente, Manning Homes presents an exquisite 3,604 square foot Tuscan abode. This elegant residence features three spacious bedrooms, each graced with its en-suite bathroom, all on a generously sized lot offering privacy and ample space. The home seamlessly blends expansive refinement with modern upgrades to create a haven tailored to your lifestyle.

PRIVACY AND END OF CUL-DE-SAC LOCATION

Upon entering, the soaring ceilings in the living areas immediately capture your attention, creating an airy ambiance and an undeniable sense of spaciousness. The gourmet kitchen is a culinary paradise, boasting Thermador stainlesssteel appliances, an inviting kitchen island, granite countertops, pots and pans drawers, and a new French door Sub-Zero refrigerator. Its seamless integration with the oversized family room enhances functionality and social interaction.

At the front of the residence, an expansive formal dining room and a separate living room beckon for gatherings and relaxation, providing distinct spaces for various activities. The primary suite, located upstairs, bathes in natural light and offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Its upgraded bathroom features a walk-in shower, spa soaking tub, and an expansive walk-in closet. Meticulous upgrades, including travertine stone baths, framed windows, crown molding, and custom built-ins, reflect a refined sense of design, ensuring an unparalleled living experience.

In a commitment to sustainability, the home features solar panels and a solar backup battery, emphasizing eco-friendly living. A state-of-the-art whole-house water filtration and softening system, along with a reverse osmosis system, guarantee a continuous supply of purified water throughout the residence. The capacious private wraparound yard provides an ideal setting for entertainment and relaxation with loved ones. This remarkable residence combines luxury, eco-consciousness, and modern convenience, making it the perfect place to call home in the coveted Bella Vista track of Talega.

OUR 1HABIT

We firmly believe that the essence of home extends beyond the physical space; it lies in the thriving communities we support and nurture. Our mission goes beyond mere real estate transactions; it centers on giving back and fostering a positive impact on the communities we serve. As part of our commitment to this vision, we are thrilled to introduce the 1Habit Community Fund, joining Pledge 1%, a global corporate philanthropy movement that inspires business leaders and their employees to contribute to local social causes. With every successful real estate transaction, we pledge to donate 1% of our profits and time to support local charities dedicated to community growth and well-being, from affordable housing initiatives to education programs and beyond. We are determined to play an active role in creating lasting change.

At the heart of Inhabit Real Estate is a community of passionate and dedicated individuals united by a shared purpose: investing in hope. Our team members actively volunteer their time, skills, and resources to make a positive impact where it matters the most, believing that through collaboration and genuine care, we can foster an environment of hope and opportunity for all. 1Habit Community Fund is our way of giving back to the very communities that have welcomed us with open arms. We take pride in actively seeking out and supporting initiatives that address the unique needs of each neighborhood we serve, aiming to empower lives and strengthen the foundation of thriving and vibrant communities.

Our vision extends beyond the traditional notion of real estate. We see it as a catalyst for change, a vehicle to build brighter futures, and a medium to connect with our communities on a profound level. With the 1Habit Community Fund, we solidify our commitment to leave a positive mark on the lives of those we serve. We invite you to be a part of the 1Habit Community Fund. Every transaction with Inhabit Real Estate contributes to our collective effort to create meaningful change. Together, let’s foster hope, support one another, and build a better tomorrow for all, join us in this inspiring journey towards a future where home truly signifies love, compassion, and unity.

TALEGA RESIDENCES

18 Via Alcamo

Tract: Alta

REPRESENTED BY DOUG ECHELBERGER

12 Calle Anacapa

Coming Soon • Tract: Pacifica Summit

5 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 4,372 Sf | $2,395,000

21 Calle De La Luna

SOLD • Highest Recorded Sale in Cantabria

3 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 3,100 Sf | $2,621,500

74 Paseo Luna

Active • Tract: Alassio

2 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 1,631 Sf | $849,000

“Doug is an amazing person and real estate broker. We had a wonderful experience with Doug and his team as we purchased our dream home in San Clemente. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a highly knowledgeable professional who will advocate for you.”

Joshua and Shulamit K.

DOUG ECHELBERGER HAS A PROVEN TRACK RECORD IN TALEGA REAL ESTATE.

MARKET REPORT

TOWNHOMES

Home Values in August

(A): Inhabit Real Estate (A): Berkshire Hathaway HomeService (B): Gary Fallis Real Estate Services

The Green Sheet is based on information from the Association of REALTORS®/Multiple Listing Service as of 9.8.2023 and/or other sources. The Talega Green Sheet and MLS data is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent. The properties listed above are not all Inhabit Real Estate and include listings from other brokers. If you notice any incorrect information or a property that is not listed, please call my office immediately at 949.498.7711. To preserve space, old sales before 6.8.2023 have been eliminated.

SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

Home Values in August

(A): Compass (B): GreenTree Properties (C): Inhabit Real Estate (D): Conrad Realtors (E): Coldwell Banker (F): Keller Williams OC Realty (G): RE/MAX First Class

SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

Home Values in August

(A): eXp Realty of California Inc. (B): Conrad Realtors (C): Hughes Realty Group (D): Beverly and Company Inc. (E): Vantage Real Estate (F): GreenTree Properties

SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

Home Values in August

(A): Compass (B): Laguna Beach Properties (C): Keller Williams OC Coastal Realty (D): Hughes Realty Group (E): GreenTree Properties (F): Olivewood Realty Group Inc. (G): Landmark Realtors (H): HomeSmart Realty West

THE GALLERY - 55 & OLDER

Home Values in August

TALEGA AVERAGES

OC MARKET UPDATE

01 The active listing inventory in the past couple of weeks decreased by 49 homes, down 2%, and now sits at 2,385, its lowest reading since the start of July. The inventory peaked four weeks ago. It is the second lowest end-of-August reading since tracking began in 2004, slightly behind 2021. In August, 39% fewer homes came on the market compared to the 3-year average before COVID (2017 to 2019), 1,367 less. Last year, there were 3,726 homes on the market, 1,341 more homes, or 56% higher. The 3-year average before COVID (2017 to 2019) was 6,569, or 175% more, nearly triple.

02 Demand, the number of pending sales over the prior month, decreased by 111 pending sales in the past two weeks, down 7%, and now totals 1,465, the lowest end-of-August level since tracking began in 2004. Last year, there were 1,831 pending sales, 25% more than today. The 3-year average before COVID (2017 to 2019) was 2,438, or 66% more.

03 With demand falling faster than supply, the Expected Market Time, the number of days to sell all Orange County listings at the current buying pace, increased from 46 to 49 days in the past couple of weeks. It was 61 days last year, slower than today.

04 For homes priced below $750,000, the Expected Market Time decreased from 32 to 31 days. This range represents 18% of the active inventory and 28% of demand.

05 For homes priced between $750,000 and $1 million, the Expected Market Time increased from 31 to 32 days. This range represents 15% of the active inventory and 23% of demand.

06 For homes priced between $1 million and $1.25 million, the Expected Market Time increased from 33 to 37 days. This range represents 10% of the active inventory and 13% of demand.

07 For homes priced between $1.25 million and $1.5 million, the Expected Market Time decreased from 40 to 38 days. This range represents 10% of the active inventory and 12% of demand.

08 For homes priced between $1.5 million and $2 million, the

Expected Market Time increased from 53 to 58 days. This range represents 14% of the active inventory and 12% of demand.

09 For homes priced between $2 million and $4 million, the Expected Market Time in the past two weeks increased from 82 to 96 days. For homes priced between $4 million and $6 million, the Expected Market Time increased from 177 to 257 days. For homes priced above $6 million, the Expected Market Time decreased from 378 to 310 days.

10 The luxury end, all homes above $2 million, account for 34% of the inventory and 11% of demand.

11 Distressed homes, both short sales and foreclosures combined, comprised only 0.2% of all listings and 0.3% of demand. Only two foreclosures and two short sales are available today in Orange County, with four total distressed homes on the active market, down three from two weeks ago. Last year, eight distressed homes were on the market, similar to today.

12 There were 1,784 closed residential resales in July, 9% less than July 2022’s 1,959 closed sales. July marked a 10% drop compared to June 2023. The sales-tolist price ratio was 100.3% for all of Orange County. Foreclosures accounted for 0.2% of all closed sales

For more information on current OC housing market, visit our market reports on our website.

echelberger.com

We respect your time, and value your business. We know you could go anywhere for your real estate needs, and appreciate having the opportunity to serve you the best way we can. For more information, or to be the first to learn about pocket listings, open houses, market reports, and local events visit us online or call 949.498.7711

Inhabit Real Estate

302 N El Camino Real, Suite 214 San Clemente, CA 92672

Office 949.498.7711

inhabitrealestate.com

FROM THE BLOG

Market Report

The lower, entry-level price ranges have been slowly disappearing with far fewer closed sales and homeowners choosing not to sell their homes. Once considered entry-level to homeownership slowly diminished over time.

Calendar of Events

From the Reggae Rocks Festival and Oktoberfest to the highly anticipated Rip Curl WSL finals at Trestles, we’ve got you covered for all events happening in and around San Clemente for the month of September.

Exploring SoCal

With so many different landscapes and unexplored locales within a short drive, we have unearthed some not-to-miss hot spots that will surely make your bucket list for exploration. See the many options in our weekly newsletter.

Read More on the Blog

Read More on the Blog

Read More on the Blog