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Orange County Real Estate, Inc.

Search every home for sale in Orange County, find out what yours is worth, and read the market data every week from the broker who writes it.

Orange County Real Estate, Inc. is a Costa Mesa brokerage working with buyers, sellers, and investors across the county. Eric Engelbert owns the company and is the broker of record, licensed since 1998 and a broker since 2003. The person who runs the firm is the person handling your transaction, from the valuation through the negotiation.

Most people who find us are looking for a home. A large share of them also have one to sell. Move-up buyers and downsizers are running two transactions at once, and the questions overlap: what is my house actually worth, what can I buy with it, and what happens if the timing does not line up. We handle both sides of that in one conversation, and when the timing genuinely does not line up, we can often arrange short-term financing so a purchase does not depend on a sale closing first. More about Eric »

Buying a house in Orange County

Buying

Search the full MLS, updated continuously.

Selling a house in Orange County

Selling

Pricing, preparation, and what your home will really bring.

New construction homes in Orange County

New Construction

Builder inventory across the county.

What Is Your Orange County Property Worth?

Start with the instant estimate for a range. Then have us check it against the actual comparable sales, the condition of the property, and what is happening on your specific street. The two numbers are often not the same.

GET MY INSTANT ESTIMATE »

Takes 30 seconds. Or call 949-430-7500 and skip straight to the real number.

How We Price and Negotiate

Before he sold his first home, Eric worked in construction alongside a custom home builder, then moved into real estate lending in Newport Beach, including work with a private lender. Three careers that turned into one skill.

A lender does not ask what a property might sell for on an optimistic day. A lender asks what it is genuinely worth if the asset has to be sold. That means selecting comparable sales rather than accepting whatever the software returns, and adjusting them for condition, lot position, view, and the upgrades a market will actually pay for. It is slower than pulling an average. It is also why our pricing tends to hold up when an appraiser or the other side of a negotiation puts it under scrutiny.

That work is what makes a negotiation winnable. When we hold a number, we can show exactly why we are holding it: the specific sales that support it, the adjustments behind them, and what the other side's comparables leave out. A position backed by data holds. A position backed by hope gets chipped away, usually in the last two weeks before closing when there is the most pressure to concede. Whether you are trying to net the most on a sale or make sure a purchase is worth what you are paying, that is where the outcome is decided.

A valuation a CPA could use

A Mission Viejo estate needed a defensible date-of-death value. The work came down to a property inspection, twelve comparable sales, two exact floor plan matches that anchored the analysis, and a written reconciliation the family's CPA used to establish a stepped-up cost basis. Read how it was built »

A closing saved in seven days

A buyer in her seventies found the single-level home she needed, then discovered a $300,000 shortfall in her funds. Because a private lender trusted Eric's valuation work, he was permitted to perform the appraisal and inspection himself. The loan funded in twenty-four hours and the home closed four days later. Read the full account »

The Orange County Housing Report, Every Week

Eric writes and publishes a weekly read on the Orange County market: active inventory, new listings, pending sales, closings, expected market time, and where each price range actually stands. Not a monthly recap of closed sales, which is a look in the rear-view mirror, but current supply and demand.

It is free, it is published in full on this site, and there is no email form in front of it. Most agents either sell this kind of data by subscription or hold it back for lead capture.

Read this week's Orange County Housing Report »

For neighborhood-level numbers, see the market reports by city.

Moving to Orange County?

Relocating is a transition, not just a transaction. We work with out-of-area buyers who cannot be here for tours, inspections, or contractor follow-ups, and we handle that legwork on the ground. Neighborhood fit, commute reality, and school district research come first, before anyone gets on a plane.

Start Your Relocation Plan »
Catalina sunset from the Orange County coast

What Our Clients Say

Rated 5.0 out of 5 across 14 Google reviews. Read them all on Google »

Sold in 9 days

"We sold our home in Costa Mesa in just 9 days with Eric's help. My husband thought we didn't need to hire a realtor, Eric broke down the entire process for us and it just made sense to work with him."

Debra F.

Three years to the right house

"Eric listened to our likes and dislikes and narrowed down continually over about 3 years. We feel we got the house we wanted at an advantageous price. A true professional."

Gerry M. Read on Google »

Would use him again

"Eric Engelbert is a realtor that you can trust with the sale of your home. He is a true professional, easy to work with, and communicates often to know your needs and keep you aware of the market."

Kim M. Read on Google »

Orange County, Neighborhood by Neighborhood

Values here shift within a few blocks, and county-wide averages hide more than they reveal. Whether it is a coastal ocean view property, a master-planned community in Irvine, a mid-century Eichler in the City of Orange, a golf course home, or a duplex or fourplex held as investment property, the analysis starts at street level.

Weekend Open Houses

Touring homes this weekend? We keep real-time open house directories for every community. City pages like Newport Beach and Irvine carry localized schedules.

View the master list: Search all Orange County open houses »

Have a question about your property or the market?

No pressure and no pitch. If you are a year away from doing anything, that is a fine time to start the conversation.

Call or Text 949-430-7500

Prefer to schedule? Book a 15 minute call

Orange County Real Estate, Inc.  |  Eric Engelbert, Broker  |  California DRE 01241208 and 01527370

Ten New Orange County Listings

$1,999,000
3 Beds 3 Baths LG26185105 MLS Active Status
Ideally situated on one of the most coveted blocks in lower Eastside Costa Mesa, 332 Walnut Street presents a truly rare opportunity. Lovingly owned and cared for by the same family for decades, the property offers exceptional flexibility with a permitted addition that creates a separate living space while preserving the ability to reconnect the spaces into one cohesive residence. The main home features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with a spacious second living area currently configured as an additional one-bedroom, one-bathroom suite. Upon entering, you are immediately greeted by a wonderful sense of space and volume, highlighted by vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light in the great room. The adjacent open kitchen offers ample counter space, counter seating, and a butcher-block surface ideal for food preparation. A formal dining area, complete with an inviting brick fireplace, provides a warm setting for entertaining and everyday living. Off the great room, a hallway leads to a full bathroom, a generously sized secondary bedroom with views of the front courtyard, and the primary bedroom with its en-suite bathroom. Accessible from the front courtyard through its own private entrance, the additional living space offers a similar great-room layout with an adjacent open kitchen and bar-top seating. A spacious full bathroom and private bedroom complete the space, which could easily be opened back up to the main home. Whether used for extended family, guests, a home office, or additional living quarters, the flexibility makes this a particularly compelling feature of the property. Outside, the well-manicured front lawn and mature plantings create a welcoming first impression, while the private rear entertaining area provides an ideal setting for relaxing or gathering with friends and family. A garage with direct access to the home adds everyday convenience. Perfect for a buyer looking to add value and personalize a home in one of Costa Mesa's most desirable neighborhoods, 332 Walnut Street is ideally positioned just moments from award-winning schools and parks, the shops and restaurants of 17th Street, the Back Bay Nature Reserve, and the famed beaches of the Newport Peninsula. With its exceptional location, flexible floor plan, and tremendous potential, 332 Walnut Street is a rare opportunity to make a home in lower Eastside Costa Mesa.

332 Walnut Street, Costa Mesa

$1,099,900
2 Beds 3 Baths OC26187295 MLS Coming Soon Status
Experience refined coastal living in this end-unit penthouse, ideally positioned on the top floor in the heart of North Beach with no neighbors above. Rich Spanish Revival architecture defines both the exterior and interior of this secure, gated community, complete with elevator access to every floor. The open floor plan features 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms freshly painted throughout, creating an inviting and versatile living environment. The living room features a gas fireplace and French doors that open to the outdoor patio, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living. The well-appointed kitchen showcases newly installed quartz counters with breakfast bar, gas cooktop, stainless-steel appliances, and walk-in pantry/laundry room. The spacious primary suite offers a walk-in closet and French doors opening to a Juliet balcony, along with a private en-suite bathroom featuring dual vanities, a walk-in shower, and soaking tub. The second bedroom also includes its own en-suite bathroom for added privacy and comfort. A true highlight is the ocean-view rooftop deck, an exceptional space for entertaining, outdoor dining, BBQs, or unwinding around the firepit while taking in the amazing sunsets and ocean views. The subterranean gated parking garage provides two dedicated parking spaces, along with a 5' x 10' storage unit and secure elevator access to all floors. Enjoy an enviable coastal location just minutes from the beach, scenic walking and biking trails, train station, trolley, Miramar food court, and charming downtown San Clemente, where an array of restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and shopping await. A distinctive blend of architectural character, modern updates, and effortless coastal convenience."

1520 N El Camino Real, San Clemente

$1,100,000
2 Beds 3 Baths OC26186236 MLS Active Status
Welcome home to this bright, sun-drenched sanctuary in highly sought-after Aliso Viejo. Perfectly move-in ready, this stunning residence captures the very essence of effortless California living from the moment you step through the front door. This highly upgraded home offers exceptional peace of mind with extensive remodel improvements throughout, including an upgraded HVAC system and water heater, providing modern comfort, efficiency, and worry-free living.The open layout feels instantly warm and inviting, flooded with natural light that highlights the home's beautiful, timeless details. Rich terracotta flooring and elegant Malibu tile accents pay homage to coastal heritage, creating an aesthetic that is both sophisticated and incredibly resilient. At the heart of the home is a chef’s kitchen designed for both lively entertaining and quiet mornings. Premium professional-grade appliances pair beautifully with luxurious leathered-granite countertops, offering a unique, matte texture that begs to be touched. Storage is never an issue thanks to the expansive 42-inch cabinetry, complete with custom extra shelving to keep your culinary workspace perfectly organized. The seamless transitions continue into the beautifully refreshed bathrooms, each meticulously updated with brand-new tubs, modern tiling, sleek new faucets, and stylish vanities. Every corner of this property has been impeccably maintained, allowing you to simply unpack and start enjoying your new lifestyle immediately. Stepping outside, you will discover an absolute rare gem. This property features one of the largest and most private backyards within the exclusive Seaway Collection. It is an idyllic, sun-filled oasis for weekend barbecues, outdoor dining, or simply relaxing under the sun. The expansive yard is even complete with your own mature orange and apple trees. Beyond your private retreat, you are perfectly positioned to enjoy the absolute best of the region. A short drive down the canyon brings you straight to the world-class beaches of Laguna Beach and Dana Point. Closer to home, you are just minutes from great shopping, dining, scenic hiking trails, and beautiful local parks. The vibrant Aliso Viejo Town Center is also right around the corner, serving as a lively hub for community events, seasonal festivities, and entertainment. This is more than just a place to live… it is a turnkey opportunity to experience the ultimate Southern California lifestyle.

26 Cuervo Drive, Aliso Viejo

$799,000
3 Beds 2 Baths OC26185090 MLS Active Status
Beautifully Remodeled End-Unit in Laguna Niguel’s East Nine Community! Light, bright, and move-in ready, this desirable 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers a spacious single-level floor plan, detached 2-car garage, and a peaceful setting surrounded by mature trees and lush greenbelts. The open living and dining areas are filled with natural light and flow seamlessly to the private patio, creating an inviting indoor-outdoor space for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying coastal breezes, greenbelt views, and views of the golf course beyond. The extensively remodeled kitchen features white oak shaker-style cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, recessed lighting, and a clean contemporary design. Both bathrooms have been beautifully updated, including a guest bath with tub and subway tile surround and a primary bath with remodeled shower, vanity, and modern fixtures. The spacious primary suite also features dual closets and direct patio access. Additional upgrades include waterproof flooring made with real wood, new interior doors, modern frosted-glass closet doors, new dual-pane windows and sliding doors, and a premium frosted-glass entry door. Major improvements include a new electrical sub-panel, new water heater, and refurbished central heating and air conditioning system. East Nine offers a tranquil, tree-lined setting adjacent to El Niguel Country Club, along with a community pool, spa, BBQ and picnic areas, and scenic walking paths. Just minutes from Salt Creek Beach, Dana Point Harbor, world-class resorts, shopping, dining, and highly regarded schools, this turn-key home offers an exceptional combination of extensive upgrades, indoor-outdoor living, and coastal South Orange County location. HOA dues include water and trash.

31281 E Nine Drive, Laguna Niguel

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Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of . This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.