PORTOLA HILLS LIVING by Kelly Turbeville

It always amazes me how fast the years go by and 2016 is no exception.  We are mid-year, so it is always a good time to take a look at how the overall real estate market has performed in Portola Hills thus far. The info-graphic below highlights the 2016 Portola Hills real estate market is certainly on an upswing thus far in the year. Looking at the above figures the low sales volume certainly is a driving force in the increase in pricing.  Inventory remains to be a key issue throughout South Orange County.   In July we typically see a turn in the market from the spring strides.  It's summer after all people are distracted.  The demand has been very good this year thus why we see such an increase in pricing.  We are also beginning to see a slight increase in the inventory and the expected market time is on the rise. Though Portola Hills Average Days on the Market is averaging about 40 overall in the county that has increased to about 79.  Leading us to a more balanc

As we are getting back to work after enjoying the 4th of July events, it is time to look at how the Portola Hills Real Estate Market performed in June...  For my business it didn't seem slow but when I look at the numbers we do see sales volume down about 50% from what it was in June 2015 for the Portola Hills Market. Looking at pricing in the Portola Hills it was up about 7% from June last year. Which is consistent with the rest of the county. Does the sales volume slow down signify a shift in the market?  The simplest answer; it depends.  Looking at history we know the best time to sell a home is Early Spring to Mid-June.   We typically have a seasonal slow down in late June through the 4th of July. Inventory has increased slightly throughout the county but in pockets such as Portola Hills it has remained low.  So if more homes come on the market through August we may see a bit more of a balanced market.   However, at the point of putting these numbers togeth

We are so excited about this upcoming home for sale. The home is located in our neighboring city of Rancho Santa Margarita.  Seller is in the process of adding a few final touches and then we will have it open. Just Listed by Realtor Kelly Turbeville I love this floorplan, as it is perfect for a growing family or maybe a professional who wants to rent out a room for extra income.    As you enter the main living area is directly above with wood flooring and 4 picture windows that open up to an amazing view.  The kitchen is open with granite counters, stainless steel appliances with a deck right of the kitchen for those summer evening and dinner outside.   The mater bedroom is located on this level with a large adjoining master bath. As you come downstairs you will enter into the large family room with 3 adjoining bedrooms.  From the family room, you have another access to spacious back yard and that amazing view. Other details include a 3 Car Garage, access to the

Thinking about selling your Portola Hills home, but considering doing it yourself.   Are you ready to hit the market as a For Sale By Owner (FSBO)? Before you sign on the dotted line with yourself, ask these 5 questions! 1.   Do you know and understand all required laws and pertaining documentation required?    In California the laws when selling a home are extensive. Do you have access to all the necessary forms? They cover, safety, hazard, disclosure, discrimination, environmental, tax, title and much much more.   2.   Do you have access to and a good relationship with a Title Company and Escrow company?   A home buyer/lender is going to require a complete title review of your property as well to ensure Title is insured. An escrow company as well would be required to ensure funds are maintained in a separate account and managed accordingly to local property laws, plus lending requirements Home Owners Association (HOA) details. 3.   Are you prepared to have th

As a Realtor you would expect me to know what homes are great deals and today I came across three in Portola Hills that are just that! Actually they are steals.. If you are looking to make a move to a larger home in a great neighborhood then make sure to check out two of these homes.  View all available Portola Hills Homes Here Portola Hills Deals for this week: 4 Bedroom / 3 Bath 2900 square foot JM Peters home.  2900+ Square feet at a price per square foot of $295. 4 Bedroom / 4 Bath 3100+ Square feet at a price per square foot of $281. Now you are probably wondering why I noted the square footage? The lowest price per square foot in the area for homes of this is $311 and that is for a smaller model. The median price per square foot in the area is $324.   That is about a 12% price below the current market value...    Below is a quick look at the price per square foot of the most recent sales this year.    Portola Hills Price Per Square foot. Th

We have hit the 6 month mark of 2016... yes today is June 1st, the unofficial beginning of summer after the Memorial Day holiday.  So what is happening in the Portola Hills real estate market so far.    Overall the market continues to shift from 2015.  We are still seeing increased pricing but sales volume is down from last year.   In May 9 homes closed escrow, which is down about 35% from May 2015.   The overall median sales price in May was flat compared to 2015.  Out of the 9 homes that closed escrow, 5 were Single Family Residence. The median sales price for a 3 bedroom 2197 square foot home was $810k The remaining 4 homes were condo's. The median sales price was $436k for a 3 bedroom 1151 square foot home. Are wondering why these numbers would be flat when we are hearing so much about the low inventory in south orange county? It is important to remember the median price is based on mix and with the number of sales down and the mix focused more on mid r

One aspect of the community of Portola Hills in Lake Forest that stands out the best is the location.    Portola Hills is located in the east end of South Orange County at the foothills of the Saddleback Mountains.   Which offers a beautiful environment for all residents. At the top of the community is a lovely community park, Concourse Park.  The park offers a wide range of amenities, that include: Two Picnic Areas, Kids Play Area, Basketball Court, Walking Path, Restrooms and plenty of Open Area.  But I think what residence like the most is that it sits at the entrance of Whiting Wilderness Park.   We took a walk recently and wanted to share with  you some photos of why we enjoy the park so much! Concourse Park Portola Hills Concourse Park Play Area A view from Walking path in Concourse Park View of Whiting Ranch from Concourse Park Concourse Park Exercise Equipment Concourse Park Walking Path We also shot a quick video on our walk to give y