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 »

Orange County Real Estate at a Glance

Brokerage: Orange County Real Estate, Inc., based in Costa Mesa
Broker: Eric Engelbert, licensed since 1998, broker since 2003
Serves: All of Orange County, California
Focus: Move-up and downsizing moves, investment property, relocation
Known for: Lender-grade valuations that hold up in negotiation
Free resource: Weekly Orange County Housing Report, published in full

Buying

Search the full MLS, updated continuously.

Selling

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

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.

Why our pricing holds up under scrutiny:

We select true comparable sales instead of accepting a software average.
We adjust each comp for condition, lot position, view, and paid-for upgrades.
We reconcile the numbers in writing, the way a lender or appraiser would.
We can show the exact sales behind a number and what the other side's comps leave out.

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.

Expected market time is the number of months it would take to sell all current inventory at the current pace of sales, and it is the fastest read on whether a price range favors buyers or sellers.

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 »

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to what people ask most before they call.

Who is the broker at Orange County Real Estate, Inc.?

Eric Engelbert owns the company and is the broker of record. He has been licensed since 1998 and a broker since 2003, and he handles each transaction himself from the valuation through the negotiation.

What areas does Orange County Real Estate, Inc. serve?

The brokerage is based in Costa Mesa and works throughout Orange County, California, including Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach, Irvine, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, Dana Point, and the surrounding cities.

How do you decide what my home is worth?

We start with an instant online estimate for a range, then verify it against true comparable sales, the condition of the property, and current activity on your street. Each comparable is adjusted for condition, lot position, view, and upgrades, the way a lender or appraiser would.

Is the Orange County Housing Report really free?

Yes. It is written by Eric each week and published in full on this site, with no email form and no subscription required.

Can you help me buy and sell at the same time?

Yes. Many of our clients are move-up buyers or downsizers running two transactions at once, and when the timing does not line up we can often arrange short-term financing so a purchase does not depend on a sale closing first.

Do you work with buyers relocating from out of the area?

Yes. We handle tours, inspections, and contractor follow-ups on the ground for out-of-area buyers, and we start with neighborhood fit, commute reality, and school district research before anyone gets on a plane.

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

$1,500,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ NP26210064 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Experience elevated coastal living at Niguel Beach Terraces in this beautifully remodeled second-floor, front-row residence with stunning ocean views and large vaulted ceilings. Completely upgraded with stylish, turnkey finishes throughout, this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers the perfect combination of modern comfort and the relaxed Southern California beach lifestyle. The light-filled interior features an open and inviting living space, contemporary flooring, a beautifully upgraded kitchen, tastefully remodeled bathrooms, and air conditioning throughout. The spacious primary suite provides a private retreat with an updated ensuite bathroom, while two additional bedrooms offer flexibility for family, guests, or a home office. The second-floor elevation and vaulted ceilings create an exceptional sense of space, natural light, and privacy. The property also includes two assigned parking spaces. As a front-row residence, the home enjoys a highly desirable position within the community with beautiful ocean views and the sights and sounds of the coast. Residents of Niguel Beach Terraces enjoy a pool, spa, clubhouse, guest parking, and beautifully maintained grounds. The location is equally impressive, just moments from the beach and minutes from Dana Point's vibrant Lantern District, home to some of the area's finest restaurants, cafes, boutique shops, and coastal gathering places. Nearby Dana Point Harbor is also undergoing an exciting revitalization, bringing new restaurants, retail, public spaces, and enhanced waterfront experiences to one of Southern California's most iconic coastal destinations. For buyers interested in investment or vacation-use opportunities, the property may offer potential for short-term rental use. Buyers should independently verify all rental restrictions, requirements, permits, and eligibility with the Niguel Beach Terraces Homeowners Association and the City of Dana Point prior to purchase. With its front-row location, ocean views, soaring vaulted ceilings, turnkey renovation, air conditioning, two assigned parking spaces, and proximity to the beach, Lantern District, and revitalized Dana Point Harbor, this exceptional residence offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the best of coastal Dana Point living.

34126 Selva Road Unit 299, Dana Point

$1,850,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ OC26210486 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Welcome home to 29432 Kensington Drive, a masterpiece of European-style craftsmanship and ecological design. This 4bd, 2.5ba, 2238 sqft home is located on the single-loaded side of Kensington Drive, the premier street of the Crown Valley Highlands neighborhood with Saddleback Mountain presiding in the Northern view. The home's entrance is grand and sweeping with a front porch large enough for everyone. The home is split level, with an open concept kitchen, living room and dining room on the main floor, all bedrooms up, and a spacious bonus room with a powder room and fireplace downstairs, carpeted with non-toxic wool carpet and pad. The main bedroom features a mountain view, fireplace and ensuite bath with custom locally made blue and white tile and walk-in closet has custom solid wood organization. The home has been re-imagined with extensive solid alder custom cabinetry, domestic soapstone countertops and hickory hardwood floors, finished with an old-world recipe wax. The crafted details must be seen to be believed. There are many different spaces to accommodate a wide array of uses, including multiple generations, live work, studio space or live-in assistance. An additional tidy Hobbit house is in the backyard and will be delivered vacant upon close of escrow. Don't miss the side yard mature avocado and citrus trees. The home is, of course, only a few miles from the beach and stays cool throughout the year, thanks to the coastal breezes that come up Crown Valley. Additionally, Laguna Niguel Regional Park is just at the base of the hill and around the back is Aliso and Woods Canyon Wilderness Park. The HOA includes a private clubhouse and pool, playground and sports field. This special pool includes a toddler splash pool and more.

29432 Kensington, Laguna Niguel

$1,550,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ IG26209577 MLS ⋅ Coming Soon Status

This is the one you have been waiting for! A very rare and unique single-story home with an amazing view! The absolute prize of the neighborhood which is pretty much “Turn Key” or ready for your own personal touches! This is one of the largest lots at over 12,000 sq feet and also one of the best Views by far! Backyard is also amazing with a large patio cover and a complete paver floor. Tastefully upgrade with many features and sitting on a premier ¼ plus acre lot which gives way to unbelievable curb appeal and a custom hardscaped front, side and backyard. Tranquil Living in this single-story 3-bedroom 2 bath home with a panoramic view. At 1,700 Square Feet, this home is family ready with the option of easy expansion! Start with a custom entry which brings you inside to view the custom floors, upgraded kitchen with granite counter tops and full backsplashes and stainless-steel appliances. This is a must-see property that will not last on the market long at all!

28581 La Cumbre, Laguna Niguel

$1,398,000

2 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ OC26209292 MLS ⋅ Coming Soon Status

Panoramic ocean views, an exceptional Lantern District location, and beautifully remodeled interiors come together in this sophisticated coastal residence at 33868 Copper Lantern Street. Ideally positioned in the heart of Dana Point’s vibrant Lantern District, this unique and inviting home offers the rare combination of stunning ocean views, an exceptional walk-to-town lifestyle, and turnkey living. From the moment you arrive, the coastal setting is unmistakable. Enjoy expansive ocean views from the private balconies, creating an idyllic backdrop for morning coffee, sunset gatherings, or simply relaxing and enjoying the view. With town, dining, boutique shopping, coffee, and the harbor all just moments away, the location offers an exceptional coastal lifestyle where you can leave the car behind and enjoy everything this area has to offer. Inside, the thoughtfully remodeled interiors blend contemporary style with relaxed California coastal living. Light-filled living and dining spaces feature luxury vinyl plank flooring, recessed lighting, and a striking gas fireplace with custom shiplap detailing. The beautifully upgraded kitchen showcases crisp white Shaker-style cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a gas range, creating a stylish and functional space for everyday living and entertaining. Both spacious bedrooms feature private balcony access, allowing the ocean breezes and coastal ambiance to become part of your daily routine. Updated bathrooms provide a fresh, polished aesthetic, while central air conditioning adds year-round comfort. An attached two-car garage provides exceptional convenience and valuable storage. Beautifully remodeled, wonderfully located, and surrounded by everything that makes coastal living so desirable, this exceptional home offers a rare opportunity to experience life in the heart of the Lantern District—with panoramic ocean views and the best of town just outside your door.

33868 Copper Lantern Unit 3, Dana Point

$1,699,999

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ OC26209589 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Welcome to this charming, turnkey, single-level home in the highly desirable Mesa Del Mar neighborhood of Costa Mesa! Situated on a spacious corner lot, this beautifully updated residence offers a seamless blend of design, comfort, and convenience, just a short walk to The CAMP and The LAB. The thoughtfully designed open-concept floor plan features an abundance of natural light, brand-new interior paint, recessed lighting, and beautiful oak flooring. The designer kitchen showcases shaker-style cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a convenient breakfast bar overlooking the backyard. The spacious primary suite features a private bathroom with a Carrera marble shower, glass enclosure. Two additional bedrooms and a generously sized full bathroom provide flexibility for family, guests, or a home office. Step outside to a generous backyard featuring a covered, illuminated patio—perfect for entertaining or relaxing. The property also offers fresh landscaping, a welcoming covered front porch, air conditioning, and a two-car garage with ample storage, built-in cabinetry, and laundry.

2835 Portola, Costa Mesa

$1,399,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ OC26210258 MLS ⋅ Coming Soon Status

Experience the best of coastal living in this beautifully upgraded Laguna Niguel home, ideally situated in the sought-after, resort-style community of Marina Hills. Thoughtfully designed for both everyday living and entertaining, the home features an expanded custom kitchen with on-trend quartzite countertops and a charming breakfast nook, European white oak wood flooring throughout the main level, beautifully updated spa-inspired bathrooms, and a sophisticated neutral color palette throughout. A convenient main-floor bedroom and bathroom with a shower offer flexibility for guests, a home office, or multigenerational living. Generously sized living and dining rooms feature expansive view windows and sliding doors that fill the home with natural light while creating a seamless connection to the outdoors. The spacious backyard is a private retreat, surrounded by lush landscaping and garden areas and complete with a built-in BBQ and covered patio—perfect for dining, relaxing, and enjoying the Southern California lifestyle year-round. Upstairs, the primary suite offers a private balcony showcasing panoramic views and a peek-a-boo ocean view, creating a peaceful place to begin or end the day. A secondary bedroom suite with its own attached bathroom completes the upper level. From the moment you arrive, the gated courtyard entrance—framed by a beautiful magnolia tree and lush garden beds—creates an inviting first impression. Marina Hills residents enjoy an exceptional array of HOA amenities, including a pool and spa, multiple parks, sports courts, and more. Ideally located near Dana Point Harbor, beautiful beaches, hiking and biking trails, shopping, dining, and entertainment, this special home offers the perfect blend of coastal lifestyle, comfort, and convenience. Professional photos coming soon!

8 Andorra, Laguna Niguel

$2,285,000

4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ OC26209222 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Enjoy this newly remodeled charming 4 BR 4 BA home, plus separate office. (The 4th BR and BA is actually an attached permitted ADU with its own entrance, 1BR, Separate Living Room, Kitchen, Laundry and walkin shower bathroom). Both furnished and turnkey. Located on a single loaded street on the ocean side of the 5 in Capo Beach,just a few minutes drive to Dana Point Harbor, Doheny State Beach, San Clemente beaches, and Laguna Beach. You'll be close to shops, restaurants, and endless coastal activities. Effortless access to PCH and 5 Fwy. This light filled upgraded residence offers a rare blend of versatility, privacy, just minutes from the coast. The setting is notably calm and removed, creating a sense of quiet that is unexpected for such convenient location. The kitchen is updated, complete with a peninsula island bar, granite countertops, full tile backsplash, stainless steel apron sink, and SS appliances. French doors open from the large family room to a private backyard designed for relaxed outdoor living, with paver decking, a tranquil fountain, and a pergola setting ideal for entertaining. Vaulted ceilings throughout with 2 fireplaces in the family room and primary bedroom. Upstairs is a huge King primary suite offering a peaceful retreat with vaulted ceilings, fireplace, jetted deep tub, ensuite bath and a separate office area framed by a sliding barndoor. Peek-a-View Ocean View upstairs, Hills and lights. The 2 car garage is attached to the 2100 sq. ft 3BR 3BA+Office main home with private beautiful gardens in the rear patio. The ADU has its own beautiful garden large patio. The rear patios are separated by a gated privacy fence and can be opened to be one large rear yard, big enough for a pool or spa which transforms this beautiful home into 4 BR 4BA Home with Office. This property blends coastal lifestyle, charming design, and offers a unique opportunity for long-term investment potential, or is ideal for separate mother-in-law, family college students or just additional income. The ADU is and has been rented for $4700-$4800 per mo with utilities and the main home furnished for $7,900 with utilities. Additional updates include solar fully owned, split AC in ADU, tankless water system, dual pane windows, EV Charger, sprinkler and drip systems, wine refrigerator completely reimagined with timeless style and thoughtful craftmanship.

34271 Via Lopez, Dana Point

$818,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ OC26210005 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Perched above it all in the coveted Breakers community, this turnkey upper-level carriage home offers a premium coastal lock-and-leave lifestyle with ultimate privacy—and no neighbors above or below you. The Interior: This 2-bed, 2-bath (1,063 sq ft) open floor plan features high ceilings, a cozy fireplace, and a private deck overlooking the trees. Fully updated with quartz counters, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl plank flooring, fresh paint, and critical infrastructure upgrades including new PEX plumbing. Convenience is maximized with an oversized direct-access garage, storage, and in-unit laundry. The Location: Unrivaled South County walkability. A private community gate provides a 3-minute pedestrian stroll directly to Ocean Ranch Village (Trader Joe's, Cinépolis luxury cinemas, and premium dining). You are minutes by car or e-bike to Salt Creek Beach, Dana Point Harbor, and five-star resorts including the Waldorf Astoria and Ritz-Carlton. Amenities: Enjoy resort-style community grounds, a sparkling pool, and spa. School: Zoned for top-rated Capistrano Unified schools: John Malcom Elementary (10/10), Niguel Hills Middle (7/10), and Dana Hills High (9/10).

193 Shorebreaker Drive, Laguna Niguel

$1,900,000

4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ OC26209757 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Expanded College Park Cinderella Home. Set on a corner lot, this expanded College Park Cinderella home has been lovingly cared for by the original family since 1956. Its white exterior, green accents and distinctive windows create inviting curb appeal, while a curved brick walkway leads through the landscaped front yard to a welcoming brick porch. The home offers approximately 2,412 square feet with four bedrooms and three-and-a-half bathrooms on a 7,500-square-foot lot. The fully remodeled kitchen features white shaker cabinets, a subway tile backsplash, quartz countertops, a large pantry, recessed lighting, tile flooring and stainless steel appliances, including an electric double oven, cooktop, overhead vent, dishwasher and refrigerator. Hardwood flooring extends through the hallway and three main-level bedrooms, which are grouped at one end of the home. A full hall bathroom and a remodeled en suite bathroom serve the main level; the fully remodeled en suite features a tiled walk-in shower with a linear drain, pedestal sink, Velux skylight and heated floor. The living room, dining room and kitchen are located in the center of the home. Perfect for entertaining and gatherings. The living has a gas log fireplace for those cozy evenings. Light and bright with the original wood windows. At the opposite end of the home, the spacious upstairs primary suite features a vaulted beamed ceiling, custom windows, a brick-faced fireplace and a mirrored wall of closets with built-ins. Its vintage-style bathroom offers Carrara marble, generous storage and counter space, and a chandelier. Chandeliers in the dining room and stairway add to the home’s classic character. The bonus room features a vintage bar, brick fireplace, access to the pool and half bath. Outside, a pool and raised spa are surrounded by a spacious brick patio with room for dining and lounging. Mature greenery and planted borders add color to this welcoming space for relaxing or entertaining. The garage, study and hobby rooms provide approximately 620 square feet in total, offering a range of possibilities. Additional features include fresh interior paint, updated decorator switches and outlets, a tankless water heater, a 200-amp electrical panel and two forced-air furnaces. Most windows and all sliding glass doors were replaced between 2016 and 2020, while select original windows were retained for their classic look. This is a home with room to enjoy both inside and out.

360 Bucknell Road, Costa Mesa

$1,139,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ OC26208444 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Located in the exclusive gated community of Provence D'Aliso, find this spectacular end unit home with a private end of the cul-de-sac location, offering panoramic views from all main living areas, and the largest floorplan available. A highly desirable main floor bedroom & a guest bath with easily accessible walk-in shower along with a separate laundry room with closable door add to the desirable floorplan. Two primary suites are located upstairs, both offer ensuite baths. This home is perfectly positioned to capture the sweeping hill, mountain, valley & city light views! An expansive patio, located off the kitchen, wraps around home to front gated entry, with lockable front gate & direct access garage, provides security and privacy. Beautiful living room provides Immense vaulted ceiling with high windows surrounding this inviting open & airy living space, with a custom stone faced fireplace. The generous dining room is adjacent to the living room & the living room, dining room & kitchen flow seamlessly together, creating an open-concept living area, ideal for both everyday living & entertaining. The kitchen also offers a generous in-kitchen dining area overlooking the beautiful hillside views. Abundant cabinetry provide exceptional storage, while stainless-steel appliances add a clean contemporary touch. A captivating garden window above the sink brings in natural light & offers a lovely connection to the patio & the outdoors with the entrancing views. A few steps up the stairway lead to an expansive landing, offering 2 separate linen storage cabinets & a convenient guest bath. Two spacious primary suites, thoughtfully positioned at opposite ends of the home for added privacy, one on the north side & one on the south. The south facing suite opens to a private deck, a perfect place to relax & enjoy the entrancing views. Both travertine & wood flooring are found thu-out this home, with new lighting in baths & upgrades at every turn. Approximately 30 windows invite the outdoors in, to enjoy the sweeping views. Association offers a resort style pool, spa & tennis courts, An excellent location in this very upscale & desirable community, close to elementary & high school, easy 73 toll road access & beach close by. Excellent proximity to Aliso Viejo Town Center offering a variety of shops & many options for dining & entertainment plus direct trail access to Hillview Park & Aliso Creek riding and hiking trail. There is also guest parking within the community.

123 GAUGUIN, Aliso Viejo

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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.