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

$1,649,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ PW26214325 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Set on a generous 0.59-acre lot in a quiet cul-de-sac neighborhood, this original 1948 North Tustin ranch house is rich with vintage character and offers plenty of room to enjoy, entertain, and imagine future possibilities. Offering 3 bedrooms plus an enclosed patio room, 2 bathrooms, and 2,130 square feet, the home blends its original appeal with thoughtful recent improvements, including fresh interior paint, new LED lighting, and updated electrical. The wonderfully oversized living room is the heart of the home, with original hardwood floors, a fireplace, and walls of glass on multiple sides that frame the surrounding greenery and create an almost garden-room feel. A separate formal dining room provides a dedicated setting for gatherings, while the galley-style kitchen offers extensive cabinetry, generous counter space, and an adjoining informal breakfast room for casual everyday dining. The enclosed patio room adds valuable flexibility and could easily serve as a home office, workout room, playroom, hobby space, reading room, or second lounge. Outside, the expansive 25,821-square-foot setting is a rare find in North Tustin, with broad lawns, mature landscaping, and an abundance of open space for entertaining, gardening, recreation, or future expansion possibilities. A separate outdoor patio with a brick fireplace creates a wonderful gathering area, while the detached garage provides additional parking and storage. Although the property fronts 17th Street, its primary access is tucked at the end of a cul-de-sac behind the home, giving the property a more private and distinctive feel. Also has an access gate off of 17th street that could be used as RV parking. With its original 1940s character, generous land, flexible living spaces, and unique indoor-outdoor connection, 14021 Livingston is a truly special 1 of 1 North Tustin property.

14021 Livingston Street, North Tustin

$749,000

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 260024063SD MLS ⋅ Active Status

This ground-floor poolside haven in the highly esteemed Costa Brava community offers a beautiful, turn-key living experience. The single-level condo spans 1,149 square feet and features two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, highlighted by an open-concept main living area that has been refreshed with a clean coat of paint throughout and accented by a beautiful gas fireplace. This space flows seamlessly to a spacious, private backyard patio that boasts a resort-like pool view, providing the perfect backdrop for entertaining and relaxing. Ultimate convenience is delivered by a one-car attached direct-access garage positioned directly in front of the unit as well as an available additional parking for a second car. Residents will enjoy premium community amenities and low-maintenance living, as the HOA covers both water and trash services while granting access to a resort-style pool, spa, and private children's park just a short walk away. This location allows you to embrace the ultimate Orange County lifestyle with pristine beaches, premier shopping, fine dining, and scenic hiking or biking trails just minutes from your front door. Complete with proximity to top-tier local schools and effortless access to the 5 Freeway and toll roads, this property offers the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and location. It stands as an exceptional opportunity to own a premier resort-like property in one of Laguna Niguel's most desirable neighborhoods. This ground-floor poolside haven in the highly esteemed Costa Brava community offers a beautiful, turn-key living experience. The single-level condo spans 1,149 square feet and features two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, highlighted by an open-concept main living area that has been refreshed with a clean coat of paint throughout and accented by a beautiful gas fireplace. This space flows seamlessly to a spacious, private backyard patio that boasts a resort-like pool view, providing the perfect backdrop for entertaining and relaxing. Ultimate convenience is delivered by a one-car attached direct-access garage positioned directly in front of the unit as well as an available additional parking for a second car. Residents will enjoy premium community amenities and low-maintenance living, as the HOA covers both water and trash services while granting access to a resort-style pool, spa, and private children's park just a short walk away. This location allows you to embrace the ultimate Orange County lifestyle with pristine beaches, premier shopping, fine dining, and scenic hiking or biking trails just minutes from your front door. Complete with proximity to top-tier local schools and effortless access to the 5 Freeway and toll roads, this property offers the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and location. It stands as an exceptional opportunity to own a premier resort-like property in one of Laguna Niguel's most desirable neighborhoods.

28634 Via Valdez, Laguna Niguel

$1,375,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ OC26214455 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Located within The Gallery, Talega’s gated 55+ community, this beautifully maintained single-level Wavecrest home combines an elevated setting with a wide, open rear outlook and approximately 1,785 square feet of comfortable living space. The home features three bedrooms, a two-car garage and an open floor plan designed for easy everyday living. A landscaped, gated courtyard creates an inviting entrance, while hardwood and tile flooring, plantation shutters, recessed lighting and abundant windows carry throughout the interior. The spacious living and dining areas center around a fireplace with built-in cabinetry and connect directly to the rear patio. The kitchen features extensive cabinetry, updated stone countertops and backsplash, a center island, stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop, built-in oven and microwave, and a separate breakfast area surrounded by windows. The primary suite offers generous proportions with hardwood flooring, plantation shutters, multiple windows, a walk-in closet and an ensuite bath with dual sinks and a walk-in shower. Two additional bedrooms provide flexibility for guests, an office or additional living space, complemented by a full guest bath and dedicated laundry room with built-in cabinetry. Outside, an expansive landscaped patio stretches along the rear of the home, enhanced by retractable awnings and mature greenery. The elevated position opens to a scenic outlook across the surrounding neighborhood and toward the hills and mountains beyond, creating a wonderful sense of openness and separation and making the rear setting one of the home’s standout features. The Gallery offers an exceptional active-adult lifestyle centered around the private 8,500-square-foot Gallery Club, with a fitness center, swimming pool and spa, bocce courts, nine-hole putting course, social spaces, clubs and resident activities. Residents also enjoy Talega’s extensive recreational amenities, including additional pools, tennis and pickleball courts, sport courts and 19 miles of hiking trails. All of this is set within the hills of Talega, just minutes from downtown San Clemente, beaches, shopping and dining, with the home’s elevated setting and open outlook providing a peaceful backdrop to the coastal lifestyle.

8 Corte De Vega, San Clemente

$2,375,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ LG26139232 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Perched in the picturesque hills of Summit Ridge, this mid-century modern home awaits. Ocean views are seen from both levels, along with hillside greenery. Uniquely positioned corner location on a street-to-street lot where Summit Drive and Summit Way meet. Great room living space with dedicated dining and open kitchen, featuring beamed ceilings and gas fireplace. Kitchen features professional-grade Bertazzoni stove, custom cabinets, countertops, backsplash and connected pantry. Sliding glass doors to two ocean view decks allow indoor/outdoor living. Downstairs, all three bedrooms are situated with convenient laundry space and storage off the hallway. The primary en suite bedroom has an ocean vista, en suite bathroom and walk-in closet. Secondary bedrooms share an adjacent bath. All bedrooms have sliding door access to view decks. The entry is off serene Summit Way, including driveway parking and an oversized two car garage. Additional parking accessible down the garden steps for several cars on Summit Drive. The property has fairly tall sub area spaces, allowing for additional finished space possibilties. Close proximity just minutes to beaches, Bluebird Park, the Village and the heart of coastal Laguna Beach.

888 Summit Drive, Laguna Beach

$1,999,000

4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ OC26213933 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Located in Forster Ranch in the highly sought-after El Encanto neighborhood, 3202 Legendario is a beautifully remodeled 4-bedroom, 3.5-bath home offering a bright and inviting atmosphere throughout. An open floor plan, soaring cathedral ceilings, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and an abundance of natural light create a spacious and welcoming feel. The thoughtfully remodeled interior provides a comfortable setting for everyday living and entertaining, while recent improvements include a new heating system and new tankless hot water heater. Step outside to a peaceful and private backyard with beautiful views of the surrounding hills—an ideal setting for relaxing, outdoor dining, and entertaining with a built-in BBQ. A spacious three-car garage provides plenty of room for parking and storage. Ideally located near neighborhood parks, hiking and biking trails, shopping, dining, and San Clemente’s beautiful beaches, this home offers a wonderful combination of privacy, comfort, scenic surroundings, and the coastal lifestyle San Clemente is known for. Welcome home!

3202 Legendario, San Clemente

31407 E Nine Drive Unit 74G, Laguna Niguel

$779,000

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ OC26204625 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Professional Photos Coming Soon: Welcome to 31407 E Nine Drive, a beautifully refreshed three-bedroom, single-level home set in an incredible golf course setting along El Niguel Country Club in Laguna Niguel’s desirable East Nine community. Freshly painted, move-in ready, and filled with natural light, this inviting home offers the perfect blend of comfort, beautiful views, and relaxed Southern California living. The spacious living room features soaring vaulted ceilings and opens to a generous covered patio overlooking the lush green golf course—the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee, unwind with an evening cocktail, watch the ducks wander by, and simply take in the peaceful surroundings. The light and bright kitchen features white cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, ample storage, and a large window bringing in natural light and views of the greenery, while the dining area provides a welcoming space for everyday meals and entertaining. Three generously sized bedrooms offer flexibility for family, guests, or a home office, with one secondary bedroom enjoying direct access to the patio. Residents also enjoy access to the community pool and spa, while golf and racquet enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to El Niguel Country Club and the nearby Laguna Niguel Racquet Club, offering tennis and pickleball; separate memberships may be available at an additional cost and are not included with the property. Ideally located just minutes from Laguna Beach, Dana Point Harbor, Salt Creek Beach, shopping, dining, and some of South Orange County’s most beautiful coastal destinations, this is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a move-in-ready home, beautiful golf course views, and the easy coastal lifestyle Laguna Niguel is known for.

31407 E Nine Drive Unit 74G, Laguna Niguel

$2,450,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ NP26212819 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Set within Aqua at Sea Summit, this Plan 5 residence offers three bedrooms, three baths, and a thoughtfully designed floor plan just moments from the coast. Built in 2019, the home centers around an expansive great room providing a living room with fireplace, dining room, and open kitchen featuring a substantial island, walk-in pantry, and upgraded Wolf appliances. A main-level bedroom and full bath add flexibility for guests, an office, or extended stays. Upstairs, the primary suite is complemented by an additional bonus room ideal for a den, office, or retreat, along with a dedicated laundry room and third bedroom. Beyond the residence, Sea Summit delivers an exceptional resort-style setting with a 6,000-square-foot clubhouse, ocean-view pool, spa, firepit, cabanas, fireplace, fitness center, and an expansive playground, park, and covered picnic space. Miles of scenic walking trails connect the community to coastal open space, with nearby access to the beach, shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. Coastal architecture, modern amenities, and one of San Clemente’s most desirable newer communities create an opportunity to experience the Sea Summit lifestyle from a beautifully appointed residence.

105 Via Galicia, San Clemente

$1,649,000

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ OC26200907 MLS ⋅ Active Status

VIEW PROPERTY BACKYARD OASIS!!! Exquisitely upgraded San Clemente residence offering an exceptional blend of refined comfort, thoughtful improvements, & effortless indoor-outdoor living. Ideally situated on a large VIEW lot, this spacious 3-bedroom, 2 & a half bath home encompasses approximately 2,100 Sq.Ft.& showcases quality materials & extensive enhancements throughout. The home’s inviting character is evident w/ rich hardwood flooring, granite countertops, & a timeless design that provides both warmth & sophistication. The thoughtfully remodeled primary suite features an upgraded bathroom & beautifully redesigned primary closet, creating a private retreat w/ an elevated sense of comfort & organization. The secondary bathroom has also been enhanced w/ a remodeled slab & sink. Designed for modern living, the home features a comprehensive water-quality system, including a whole-house water filtration system, soft-water system, & kitchen reverse-osmosis system. Interior paint throughout in 2026. NEW HVAC 2023. The whole-house filter was replaced in 2025, providing an additional level of convenience & peace of mind. The customized garage offers valuable cabinetry & storage, maximizing functionality while maintaining a clean, organized environment. Outside, professionally enhanced landscaping creates an inviting setting for entertaining & relaxation, while the impressive in-ground Jacuzzi—added in 2020 w/ an investment of approximately $50,000—provides a private resort-style experience at home. Additional highlights include leased solar through Sunrun, added in 2022, helping support the home's energy-conscious lifestyle. Also added was on EV CHARGER in garage. The property has also benefited from significant landscaping improvements in both 2020 & 2026. W/approximately $150,000+ in documented improvements & upgrades, 23 Via Cristobal offers a rare combination of size, quality, functionality & thoughtful investment. This is a home designed not simply to be lived in, but to be enjoyed- inside, outside & for years to come. Close to San Clemente Pier, and The Outlets! World class beaches, shopping and restaurants.

23 Via Cristobal, San Clemente

$2,499,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ OC26212842 MLS ⋅ Active Status

Stunning ocean views take center stage at 2850 Calle Esteban, a 4-bedroom, 3-bath home located in the desirable Marlborough Seaview Estates community of San Clemente. Filled with natural light and surrounded by beautiful ocean, hilltop, and mountain views, this home captures the best of coastal Southern California living. A welcoming foyer opens to spacious, light-filled living areas accented by hardwood floors, including a comfortable living room and separate family room with fireplace. The kitchen flows easily into the main living spaces, creating a functional layout for everyday living and entertaining. A main-floor bedroom and full bath offer flexibility for guests, extended family, or a home office, while a dedicated laundry area adds everyday convenience. Upstairs, the primary suite is a true highlight, featuring a walk-in closet and private balcony where stunning ocean views and coastal breezes create a peaceful place to start the morning or unwind at the end of the day. Two additional upstairs bedrooms share a convenient Jack-and-Jill bathroom, completing a functional and versatile upper-level layout. Outside, the backyard continues the Southern California lifestyle with a built-in BBQ and space for outdoor dining, entertaining, and relaxing. Ideally located near San Clemente’s beaches, downtown, shopping, dining, parks, and hiking trails, 2850 Calle Esteban offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy beautiful ocean views and the laid-back coastal lifestyle San Clemente is known for.

2850 Calle Esteban, San Clemente

$1,395,000

4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ LG26212391 MLS ⋅ Active Status

This beautifully updated 4-bedroom Pacific Grove Home is a true Gem, completely move-in ready and fully re-piped with PEX. The Aliso Viejo location offers the desirable South Orange County lifestyle, walkable to highly rated schools and beautiful canyon trails as well as an easy drive to nationally renowned beaches. Offering a light and bright open floor plan with a neutral color palette, 9 Sequoia combines luxurious upgrades like the hardwood flooring paired with comfortable everyday living in a home with newer windows and doors. The vaulted ceilings in the Living Room invite an abundance of natural light creating a welcoming atmosphere. The remodeled kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, subway tile backsplash and white cabinets, providing a creative cooking space. The adjacent family room utilized as an open play space can easily be a second living area with the built-in entertainment center and the wall plug perfectly placed. Upstairs is complete with four spacious bedrooms, two full bathrooms and a laundry closet. The mature landscape of the backyard creates an inviting area for unwinding in the evenings around the lava rock gas fireplace. Garage is clean with finished walls, Epoxy-floors, built in white cabinets, plus a Tesla charger. Enjoy the added value of no neighborhood HOA dues and no Mello-Roos tax. Being located in the quaint city of Aliso Viejo offers convenient access to numerous employer hubs as well as proximity to South Laguna and Dana Point beach towns. Thoughtfully upgraded, move-in ready, and ideally situated for enjoying the best of South Orange County, this Pacific Grove home is ready to welcome its next owner!

9 Sequoia, 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.