Renovated Home in Coveted Top of the World Neighborhood
Danielle Purcell Knows Laguna Beach Real Estate
Top agent has represented more owners in Laguna Beach than any other agent. Danielle is a closer!
Danielle Purcell is a highly accomplished luxury real estate broker in Laguna Beach with over 35 years of experience in the industry. She is widely recognized as one of the top agents in the business, having closed over $1 billion in transactions throughout her career. As a lifelong resident of Laguna Beach, Danielle possesses an unparalleled understanding of the local market which allows her to anticipate industry trends and understand property values with ease. Danielle is known for her exceptional customer service, meticulous attention to detail and fearless approach to resolving complex issues. Her comprehensive market knowledge and unrivaled negotiation skills set her apart from other agents. Danielle
is a trusted advisor for high-end buyers and sellers in the luxury real estate market, championing transparency, trust, and communication.
Danielle’s dedication to delivering unparalleled service and customer satisfaction is unwavering. Her professionalism, tenacity, and commitment to delivering outstanding results have earned her a coveted position among the industry’s elite. She is the go-to agent for those seeking the finest real estate experience in Laguna Beach.
In addition to her impressive real estate expertise, Danielle is also passionate about giving back to the
Offering stunning Saddleback Valley and city lights views, this home’s living room offers high ceilings and a cozy double-sided fireplace shared with the dining room where a wall of windows frame the impressive scenery. The kitchen has been updated with new cabinets, quartz countertops, subway tile backsplash, stainless Bosch appliances, and an additional wet bar area. Adjacent to the kitchen and dining room is an extra loft space. Beautiful hardwood floors flow through the main living areas. The welldesigned layout includes 4 bedrooms and 2 updated bathrooms, including a spacious primary suite with French doors leading to the backyard and a beautifully updated bath. The home sits on a sizable private lot, boasting an entertainer’s backyard with an expansive deck and a covered patio. This quiet location is close to award-winning schools, Alta Laguna Park, hiking and biking trails, downtown, and the beach.
Property: 3008 Mountain View Drive, Laguna Beach
Offering Price: $2,795,000
Agent Info: Andrea Ballesteros; 949.690.5159 andrea@ballesterosgroup.com; ballesterosgroup.com
community. She focuses on supporting local charities that benefit children, including the Boys and Girls Club and School Power. Her commitment to the community further highlights her values of integrity, generosity, and excellence.
For those looking for an agent with unparalleled expertise and a commitment to excellence and community, make
Dani moved to Laguna Beach in 1968, over 50 years ago, when her father, Neil Purcell, transferred to the Laguna Beach Police Department. Dani’s father served over 30 years with Laguna Beach Police Department and retired as Police Chief. Dani’s mother, Michelle, was an artist and full-time bookkeeper in town. At the age of 12 Dani began working full time and held 3-4 jobs at a time. After High School Danielle went to college for 3 years and then returned to Laguna to start her Real Estate Career. Dani enjoys walking her English bull dogs and enjoying the sun.
Danielle Purcell your choice for luxury real estate in Laguna Beach.
For your best service and options with luxury home sales, rentals and property management, contact Team Laguna by phone at 949-464-1063 or Danielle’s cell 949-874-1187.
Dani Purcell
NATIVE GARDENING
LANDSCAPING WITH DROUGHT-RESISTANT DESIGNS CAN MITIGATE MAINTENANCE AND LOWER WATER
BILLS.
BY TANYA A. YACINA / COURTESY OF LATITUDE33 MAGAZINE
While recent rainy Southern California weather patterns have put the worry of a drought out of many people’s minds, the truth is that another drought season is just around the corner. Coastal Orange County is lucky in that it sits next to the ocean, but that doesn’t save plants, vegetation and landscapes from the usual lack of fresh water, which is where a drought-resistant landscape plan comes into play.
“People should conserve water because water is an important part of everyone’s life. Droughts in California are not a new phenomenon,” says Jose Gallardo, a water use efficiency specialist at Laguna Beach County Water District. “In fact, droughts are increasing in intensity and length. By conserving water now, we are better suited to get through the current and future droughts.”
Gallardo notes that late summer rains helped reservoir levels throughout the state to rebound and the Sierra Nevada snowpack continues to break records. “But, while storms have eased dry conditions,” he says, “drought is likely to return. California has a history of deluge and drought. In addition, California’s groundwater levels have fallen dramatically during the state’s droughts
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Zepezauer PRESIDENT
Chris Mattingley, Carol Josepher, Dawn Lindeman, Mara Hertel
Street, Suite B, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
right: Chinese wisteria is drought tolerant. above: The waterwise demonstration garden outside of the Laguna Beach County Water District office downtown offers examples of sustainable options that require little water.
BRANDY FABER
Discover the epitome of coastal living in this chic 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom retreat located in the heart of Laguna Beach. Be the first to enjoy this newly renovated exquisite property that seamlessly blends modern aesthetics with beachside tranquility, offering a captivating experience. As you step inside, you're greeted by a thoughtfully designed interior that seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen spaces. The open-concept layout enhances the sense of space and invites a natural flow throughout. The kitchen, equipped with brand-new stainless-steel appliances, serves as a stylish hub for culinary adventures, all while basking in the abundance of natural light pouring in through well-placed windows. Venture outside to your private oasis—a charming patio space ideal for both relaxation and al fresco dining. Here, you can immerse yourself in the coastal climate and enjoy the gentle ocean breeze, creating a perfect setting for outdoor gatherings. Additional features include a dedicated laundry and storage room for convenience, one reserved parking spot, and proximity to nearby beaches, dining options, and shopping for daily needs. Scenic views enhance the allure of the Laguna Beach landscape. 529 Catalina isn't just a residence; it's a lifestyle that embraces modern comfort while immersing you in the natural beauty and coastal allure of Laguna Beach. Don't miss the chance to make this retreat your new home. Schedule a showing today to experience firsthand the elegance, comfort, and convenience.
Faber
Laguna
This extensively upgraded Pienza residence in guard-gated Pacific Ridge, offers a turnkey opportunity with a virtually endless list of luxuries. Measuring appx. 3,480 SF, the home enjoys 4 bedrooms, 3.5 remodeled baths, primary suite with infrared therapy light system with 6,000 watts of soothing LED power, 400-bottle temp-controlled wine wall, 3-car garage and resort-style backyard.
Set on a large corner homesite with appx. 165’ of frontage within the highly sought-after Harbor View community, this brilliantly crafted new (2023) home by RDM General Contractors with Mindy Gayer Design interiors offers five bedrooms, five-and-two-half-bathrooms, appx. 4,700 square feet, a resort-style backyard, and timeless Modern Farmhouse architecture.
Mermaid Street, Laguna Beach $3,995,000
Venture Dr, Huntington Beach
Ashton Dr, Laguna Beach
716.5 Orchid Ave, Corona del Mar $2,750,000 2235 Pacific Drive, Corona del Mar $9,750,000 212 Goldenrod Avenue, Corona del Mar $11,995,000
34385 Dana Strand Rd #B, Dana Point $11,595,000
30732 Hunt Club Dr, San Juan Capistrano
31345 Holly Dr, Laguna Beach
1501 Mesa Dr #C, Newport Beach
E Oceanfront, Newport Beach
San Raphael, Dana Point
and have been depleted by decades of heavy pumping.
The Colorado River, a main source of water for Southern California, is in a two-decades-long drought, which has caused its massive reservoirs, Lake Mead and Lake Powell, to plummet. The recent rains, while welcome, are not enough to alleviate that state’s water problems entirely. It will take multiple years to fully recover.”
Gallardo says the main benefit of drought-resistant plants is water savings. Once established, a native and drought-resistant landscape requires infrequent watering and less hands-on maintenance than a traditional garden. Native plants also provide habitat and food for local pollinators and wildlife.
Landscape architect Ann Christoph agrees that since the area has a climate featuring long periods without rainfall, drought-resistant plantings help to sustain landscapes continuously without great investments of water or extra maintenance. Not to mention, these landscapes look more
appropriate to the region, she says.
WEEDING THROUGH PLANT CHOICES
Christoph explains that drought-resistant options include a variety of succulents and other leafy plants adapted to the local climate with deep roots, the ability to catch moisture in the air and funnel it to the roots, and hardened leaves that reduce transpiration. These types of plants are in the hillsides and greenbelt and in the other Mediterranean regions of the world. A comprehensive plan is needed to produce a drought-resistant landscape that also meets the needs of a home setting.
“Pick the ones that are easiest to grow and that will fit into the space you have available. Baccharis pilularis prostrate hybrids (coyote brush) is a good one to start with,” Christoph advises. “Encelia californica (coast sunflower) is another one that is easy to grow. Some native plants are so adapted to drought that they don’t do well
in a garden setting where there is likely to be supplemental watering.”
Planning these types of gardens can be complex, but landscape architects specialize in this task. Gallardo recommends working with a licensed landscape contractor for just this reason.
“Each landscape has unique needs and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution that will work for everyone,” Gallardo says. “Do some research and ask around to see if anyone you know may have recently made changes to their landscaping that you like. Don’t be afraid to borrow ideas or designs from other successful landscapes.”
Wisteria is one—perhaps surprisingly—droughttolerant plant recommended by Ruben Flores, owner of Laguna Nursery and landscape design firm Visionscape.
“The wisteria is a grand showstopper,” he says. “The fragrance of the wisteria is heavenly, the showers of bloom are so soft and cascading. It is fast growing, but still takes time for it to cover a large expanse [such] as … [an] arbor or a wall trellis, but well worth the wait. … The wisteria is highly drought tolerant can endure even in the most severe heat and cold—truly a favorite of most gardeners.”
When it comes to lawns, Christoph doesn’t recommend using artificial turf as a replacement for real grass because, although it may seem like a good way to mitigate water usage, it requires a substantial initial investment and will need to be removed and replaced after some time, which creates more plastic waste. She also recommends utilizing a spray system with rigid pipes for watering because they are more reliable than drip systems and also moisten and clean surrounding leaves. She notes that it’s necessary to carefully adjust the spray system to avoid run-off onto adjacent paved areas.
Rocks and drought-tolerant plants including New Zealand hair sedge and stained glass agave create a tasteful space without green turf.
Some low-water landscaping offers an alternative to a full lawn in the front yard.
This week the median list price for Laguna Beach, CA is $5,247,450 with the market action index hovering around 29. This is less than last month's market action index of 30. Inventory has decreased to 102.
Ma rk et Action Ind ex
This answers “How’s the Market?” by comparing rate of sales versus inventory
Buyer's Advantage
The market has shown some evidence of slowing recently. Both prices and inventory levels are relatively unchanged in recent weeks. Watch the Market Action Index for changes as it can be a leading indicator for price changes.
ia n List Price
This week the median list price for Newport Beach, CA is $5,295,000 with the market action index hovering around 34. This is less than last month's market action index of 35. Inventory has decreased to 89.
Ma rk et Segments
Each segment below represents approximately 25% of the market ordered by price.
The market has been cooling over time and prices plateaued for a while. Despite the consistent decrease in MAI, we’re in the Seller’s zone. Watch for changes in MAI. If the MAI resumes its climb, prices will likely follow suit. If the MAI drops consistently or falls into the Buyer’s zone, watch for downward pressure on prices.
LAGUNA BEACH | SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
NEWPORT BEACH | SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
Responsible Building
IN LUXURY CUSTOM HOMES, THE ETHOS IS SHIFTING AWAY FROM WOOD AND CONCRETE, AND MORE TOWARD INNOVATION.
BY GEOFF NUDELMAN / COURTESY OF LATITUDE33 MAGAZINE
With both the climate and the consumer in mind, more and more, builders are turning to materials with less impact on the environment. Advances in engineering and science mean there are an increasing number of ways to make home feel like home, whether using materials from nature or from what’s already in circulation.
RECLAIMED MATERIALS
By far, the most environmentally-responsible path of building is by using something already harvested or something that came from a prior build. While reclaimed wood has long been a favorite choice, builders are looking at metal, brick and other pre-loved materials that add a certain character just not possible with fresh product. It’s still popular to source some of these products overseas, but due to the intense energy and cost of transportation, more homebuilders are looking closer to the build site. With so many good building materials ready for a second life, they can certainly add another layer to the new home’s story.
FABULOUS
FUNGI
While we’re all accustomed to the health benefits of mushrooms, the root structure underneath the hearty plant shows real potential as an interior material with a range of net-positive uses. The fermented and treated form of the root is already being used as a packaging substitute due to its insulating and water-resistant properties, all with no added chemicals. Inside the home, architects and interior designers are already looking to companies making finishes and fixtures out of the material.
Originally designed by famed Laguna Beach architect Fred Briggs, this 3,000-square-foot, A-frame Laguna home with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean had a makeover in 2006 when local architect Anders Lasater, known for his attention to light, space, proportion and material, renovated the original Bauhaus-style structure with steel, wood and glass. “When … originally built, it was sided with barn wood that seems to get better and better with age. The building seems to respond to the natural environment and, when you see the wood on the exterior— which has now been mated with corrugated metal, stainless steel and glass handrails and exposed steel structural I-beams—it becomes a composition of different materials that are all pointing in the same direction,” Lasater says.
What’s Old is New Again: Charred Timber
This sustainable design practice started off in Japan in the Edo period (1603-1867) and is also often called “shou sugi ban.” Charred timber cladding is extremely durable and resilient as a material—it can resist flames, ward off insects and can become waterproof through carbonization.
Delta Millworks began burning wood in 2000, beautiful textures and grain patterns achieved by taking torches to timbers and boards to preserve it. In a world where intense weather, fire and climate change continue to impact the strength of built environments, the heavily-charred surface of the board makes the wood fire retardant as well as resistant to rot, insects and decay. In 2022, the company’s hyper sustainable Mojave Thermally Modified Wood won Architectural Record’s annual “Best Architectural Products of 2022” in the Building Envelope category and received an Editor’s Choice special mention. (deltamillworks.com)
“A real lawn is much better environmentally and functionally,” she says. “But lawn areas should be confined to spaces where they are needed for use—for play or walking, not just to fill in areas you don’t know what to do with. Those are places for ground covers and shrubs.”
She says the watering frequency for this type of landscape depends on the weather, as well as the sun and shade pattern and the stage of life of the plants used. She recommends looking at a plant as one would a growing child—be sensitive to its needs. She also notes how important soil tests are in choosing plant material to assure the success of planting: Many drought-tolerant plants don’t do well in clay soil, so it’s best to know what you’re working with in advance.
“The main issue you want to stay away from is grouping plants together that have different water needs,” Gallardo explains. “An effective drought-resistant garden is correctly hydro-zoned to avoid over- [or] underwatering plants. Hydro-zoning should be done during the planning stages and involves grouping plants with similar water needs together.”
GOING GREEN
Creating a yard that’s more sustainable and saves money may be the goal, but how a homeowner wants their landscaping to look will dictate the amount of maintenance a drought-resistant garden will require. For example, Christoph says, if a naturalistic look is desired, clipping and hedging is not only unnecessary, but also counterproductive. She says to let natural duff accumulate on the ground, and don’t rake and remove organic material from the ground surface.
“Raking is a task [that’s] not needed. Until plants have covered the surface, hand weeding will be necessary,” she
says. “Your garden will look like it belongs in California, not like it is trying to duplicate a garden from a different, wetter climate.”
Gallardo says the main way that native plants can help save money is by reducing water usage. Native plants require less water to thrive and have adapted to and are uniquely suited to survive in their native habitat. Overall, they also require less maintenance, which saves time and money.
Gallardo’s strongest recommendation for decreasing water bills is making sure that homeowners understand where the water they use is going. If possible, track water usage with a smart water meter. (If you aren’t sure whether you have a smart meter, ask your water provider
who will be able to give you more information and point you in the right direction.)
“In general, a conservative estimate for household water use shows that approximately 50% of a household’s usage goes to the landscaping,” he says. “When the weather begins to change, your landscape watering schedule should change. It’s also important to regularly check the irrigation system for any breaks or issues. The biggest factor we see at our district with high bills is an overactive irrigation system.”
With these tips and some landscape changes in favor of native plants, homeowners may soon have a water-sipping garden that not only looks great, but keeps the green in their pockets.
Succulents add a nice, green backdrop for a few pops of color in low-water landscaping.
MARY HURLBUT
