Costa Mesa Multifamily Properties for Sale

Duplexes, Triplexes, Fourplexes and Apartment Buildings in a High-Demand Rental Market

The House Hacking Advantage in Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa 4-plex residential income property for sale

Residential income property in the Costa Mesa market

Our broker, Eric Engelbert, is a Mesa Verde resident and has watched Costa Mesa become the gold standard for residential income property in Orange County. Whether you want a duplex, a triplex or 3 unit multifamily property, a fourplex, or an apartment building, owner occupied investors can use FHA financing on properties up to 4 units, allowing low down payment acquisition of high density assets on the Westside and throughout the city. FHA loan limits for 4-unit properties in Orange County are updated annually. Contact us for the current figure before running your numbers.

Costa Mesa's rental market is anchored by Orange Coast College, Vanguard University, the 17th Street corridor and South Coast Plaza area employment, ensuring low vacancy rates and consistent demand. Whether you are executing a 1031 exchange, buying your first income property, or selling a building you have owned for years, understanding local zoning and California rent law is where our expertise becomes your advantage. We represent buyers and sellers, so we see both sides of every deal.

Want to discuss cap rates, zoning or off market opportunities in Costa Mesa? Call or text us: 949-430-7500

How We Help Costa Mesa Investors, Owners and First Time Buyers

Buying

We search duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes and apartment buildings for you, including properties that sell privately before they reach the MLS. We verify rents and expenses and run the cap rate before you write an offer.

See Off Market Properties »

Selling

Income properties are priced on rents, expenses and net operating income. We build your price from your numbers and recent sales. Skip the automated estimate and get a human verified valuation.

Get a Valuation and Cap Rate Analysis »

1031 Exchanges

Selling an investment property or buying with exchange funds? Federal rules give you 45 days to identify replacement properties and 180 days to close, so we line up targets early. Work with a qualified intermediary and your tax advisor.

Plan Your Exchange »

Live in One Unit

Buy a duplex, triplex or fourplex, live in one unit and rent the others. Owner occupied financing can mean a lower down payment, and lenders may count part of the rent toward qualifying. We connect you with a lender and show your payment after rent.

Run Your Numbers With Us »

Larger buildings too. We also work with apartment buildings of 5 or more units, even 120 unit properties. They are labeled commercial instead of residential and use commercial financing, but we evaluate, price and market them the same way.

Costa Mesa Multifamily Resources

What Is Your Costa Mesa Multifamily Property Worth?

Multifamily is often sold before it reaches the MLS, and values vary by building, rents and condition. Whether you want to buy, sell, exchange or live in one unit, we will run the numbers with you. We can also build a custom report for a specific Costa Mesa neighborhood or property type.

Costa Mesa Multifamily Investment FAQ

Is Costa Mesa a good market for multifamily investment?

Yes. Costa Mesa has structural rental demand drivers that make it one of the most reliable multifamily markets in Orange County. Orange Coast College, Vanguard University, the 17th Street corridor, and proximity to Newport Beach employers keep vacancy rates low and rental demand consistent. The Westside in particular has a high concentration of older multifamily stock that attracts value-add investors, while the Eastside commands premium rents due to Newport Beach proximity and school district access.

What is house hacking and how does it work in Costa Mesa?

House hacking is the strategy of purchasing a multifamily property, living in one unit, and renting the others to offset your mortgage. In Costa Mesa, fourplexes are the most common house hacking vehicle because they qualify for owner-occupied FHA financing, which allows lower down payments than conventional investment loans. The rental income from the other three units can significantly reduce or eliminate the owner's housing cost. FHA loan limits for 4-unit properties in Orange County are updated annually. Contact us for the current figure before running your numbers.

Can I buy a triplex or 3 unit multifamily property in Costa Mesa?

Yes. Triplexes and other 3 unit multifamily properties come to market in Costa Mesa from time to time, and they are a popular choice for buyers who want to live in one unit and rent the other two. Inventory changes quickly, so the listings on this page update directly from the MLS, and we also watch for properties that sell privately before they are listed. Tell us what you want and we will keep an eye out.

Does Costa Mesa have rent control?

Costa Mesa does not have local rent control, but California's AB 1482 statewide rent cap applies to most multifamily properties that are more than 15 years old and not single-family homes or condos. AB 1482 limits annual rent increases to 5% plus local CPI, with a maximum of 10%. Properties built within the last 15 years are exempt. Buyers should review current AB 1482 applicability for any specific property with a real estate attorney before closing, as the rules have nuance around exemptions and just cause eviction requirements.

Are Costa Mesa multifamily properties good for a 1031 exchange?

Yes, particularly for investors exchanging out of properties in higher-appreciation markets who want to redeploy into stable cash-flowing assets. Costa Mesa multifamily offers a combination of strong rental demand, below-replacement-cost pricing on older stock, and ADU upside that makes it an attractive 1031 destination. The key is identifying properties with genuine value-add potential rather than paying a premium for cap rate compression that has already occurred. Working with an agent who has off-market access is essential in this segment, as the best opportunities rarely hit the public MLS.

Do you work with apartment buildings of 5 or more units in Costa Mesa?

Yes. We work with apartment buildings of every size, from a duplex to a 120 unit property. Buildings with five or more units are labeled commercial instead of residential and use commercial financing, but we evaluate, price and market them the same way, starting with the rents, the expenses and the cap rate.

How do I sell my Costa Mesa multifamily or income property?

Income properties are priced on rents, expenses and net operating income, not just comparable sales. We build your price from your numbers and recent sales, then market to investors, exchange buyers and owner occupants. We can also sell quietly if you prefer a private sale. Skip the automated estimate and request a human verified valuation.

Browse Costa Mesa Multifamily and Investment Listings

The listings below update directly from the MLS. If you have questions about a specific property or want to talk strategy, contact us or call 949-430-7500.

Costa Mesa Investment Property

2033 Laurie Lane, Costa Mesa
$2,195,000
NP26213924 MLS ⋅ Active Status
Welcome to 2033 Laurie Lane, a stunning duplex located in Eastside Costa Mesa. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac with only 5 properties, this pride of ownership duplex has been updated over the years to reflect todays living standards. Unit A features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 1,300 SF of living space. The kitchen offers white shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, multiple pantries, stainless steel appliances, and generous sized island that opens to the living space complete with a cozy fireplace. Two large bedrooms and a hallway bath lead to the spacious primary bedroom with multiple closets and primary bathroom with a recently completed custom tiled shower. Enjoy not only a private front courtyard, but private back patio as well! Unit B features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and approximately 925 SF of living space. The kitchen offers white shaker cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and is open to the living area. A large slider opens to the private front patio. A nice sized bedroom and hallway bath make way to the huge primary bedroom that can easily fit a king size bed and offers a walk- in closet as well as an en suite bathroom. Additional features include dual pane windows throughout, recessed lighting, laminate flooring, central heating, (3) single car garages with additional parking, lush landscaping, and private laundry hookups for each unit. Located in one of Orange County’s most desirable coastal neighborhoods, 2033 Laurie Lane offers convenient access to 17th Street’s renowned dining, shopping, and everyday amenities, nearby parks and beaches, The Triangle, and highly regarded local schools. With its desirable Eastside Costa Mesa setting, updated residences, private outdoor spaces, and flexible two-unit configuration, this exceptional property represents a compelling opportunity for an owner-user, multigenerational household, or investor seeking a quality multifamily asset in a premier coastal Orange County location.

2033 Laurie Lane, Costa Mesa

776 W Wilson Street, Costa Mesa
$4,695,000
OC26212352 MLS ⋅ Active Status
776 West Wilson Street is an eight-unit residential property located in the City of Costa Mesa, California. The property features a rare blend of new construction and renovated product, consisting of four newly constructed 3-bed/2-bath units completed in 2026 and four fully remodeled 2-bed/1-bath units. The four newly constructed units have never been lived in and feature modern interior finishes, multi-zone air conditioning, in-unit laundry, and all-electric systems with individual metering, while the four existing units have been fully remodeled with new dual-pane vinyl windows, PEX plumbing, air conditioning, and in-unit laundry. The property is further enhanced by brand-new roofs (2026), electrical panel upgrades on all eight units, 800-amp service sized for future ADU additions, ABS sewer laterals with no cast iron on site, individual water heaters, an expected 80% water utility reimbursement through RUBS, and grandfathered individual trash cans with no dumpster or haul fees. These features help create a highly functional rental property with modern tenant amenities and a streamlined operating structure. Located in West Costa Mesa, the property offers residents convenient access to Orange Coast College, Fairview Park, and the Newport Beach coastline, as well as the shopping and dining at Triangle Square, South Coast Plaza, and the 17th Street corridor, with easy connectivity to the 55 and 405 freeways.

776 W Wilson Street, Costa Mesa

2904 Peppertree Lane, Costa Mesa
$2,225,000
OC26209367 MLS ⋅ Active Status
RARE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY IN HIGHLY DESIRABLE MESA VERDE! Great opportunity to own a well-located 4-plex in the highly desirable Mesa Verde area. The property features spacious floor plan layouts, with each unit offering 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. The living rooms open to the dining areas and kitchens, with ceiling fans in the dining rooms and bedrooms. Several units have been upgraded, including one unit that is completely furnished. Interior finishes and amenities vary by unit. Some units feature dishwashers and washer/dryer hookups in the kitchen, while others do not. Flooring includes carpeting, with two downstairs units featuring laminate flooring. Some interiors have also been freshly painted within the past year. The roof is approximately 10 years old, and the property features newer dual-pane windows throughout, approximately 1 year old. The buildings' exteriors were painted about 1 year ago. The rear of the property was renovated approximately 5 years ago and features cement driveways and additional parking. Tenants also have access to additional street parking along the single-loaded street. Newer roll-up garage doors provide an additional update to the property. Great curb appeal, pride of landlord ownership. Great location near shopping, dining, transportation, and other everyday conveniences, adding to the property's appeal for both investors and tenants. Quiet Mesa Verde community. ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY: The adjacent 4-plex at 2902 Peppertree is also available for purchase under a separate MLS listing, providing a potential opportunity to acquire both properties.

2904 Peppertree Lane, Costa Mesa

2902 Peppertree Lane, Costa Mesa
$2,175,000
OC26209314 MLS ⋅ Active Status
Prime Mesa Verde Location – Income-Producing 4-Plex Great opportunity to own a well-located 4-plex in the highly desirable Mesa Verde area. The property offers spacious floor plan layouts, with each unit featuring 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Living rooms open to dining areas and kitchens, with ceiling fans in the dining rooms and bedrooms. Unit amenities and finishes vary. Some units feature dishwashers and washer/dryer hookups in the kitchens, while others do not. Flooring varies by unit, including carpeting and laminate flooring. Several interiors have been upgraded and/or freshly painted within the past year. One downstairs unit features a spacious side yard with a block wall and patio slab. The roof is approximately 10 years old. The exterior of the buildings was painted approximately 2 years ago, and dual-pane windows were installed approximately 1 year ago. The rear of the property was renovated approximately 5 years ago and features cement driveways and additional parking. Tenants also have access to additional street parking along the single-loaded street. Great curb appeal, pride of landlord ownership. A community coin-operated laundry room is located in one of the garages, providing an additional tenant amenity. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, transportation, and other everyday amenities, this is an attractive investment opportunity in a desirable, quiet Costa Mesa neighborhood. Additional Investment Opportunity: The adjacent 4-plex at 2904 Peppertree Lane is also available for purchase under a separate MLS listing, offering a potential opportunity to acquire both properties.

2902 Peppertree Lane, Costa Mesa

383 W Wilson Street, Costa Mesa
$4,650,000
OC26201829 MLS ⋅ Active Under Contract Status
383 West Wilson Street is a 12-unit multifamily investment property located in Costa Mesa, California. Situated on approximately 0.43 acres, the property features a unit mix of 10 one-bedroom units and 2 two-bedroom units and combines a substantially renovated existing asset with significant additional unit development potential. Central to the investment opportunity is the approval to convert existing garage space into 5 studio Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), totaling approximately 2,045 square feet. Construction of the approved ADUs has not yet commenced, providing new ownership the opportunity to complete the conversions and increase the property from 12 to 17 units, a roughly 42% increase in rentable unit count. The approved conversions create a defined path to expand the property's income-producing capacity within the existing site. Importantly, this development upside is paired with substantial improvements to the existing 12 units. All units have been renovated with upgrades including quartz countertops, updated appliances and bathrooms, fresh paint, and vinyl and carpet flooring. With the existing interiors already improved, future investment can be focused on completion of the approved ADUs rather than a property-wide interior renovation program. 383 West Wilson Street also benefits from a sizable site and an attractive collection of resident amenities. The property provides 22 parking spaces, including 13 garage and 9 surface spaces, along with gated access, an on-site laundry facility, security doors, and a spacious central courtyard. The property is positioned near a dense collection of Costa Mesa amenities and demand drivers, with retail along Harbor Boulevard, Orange Coast College, the OC Fair & Event Center, and neighborhood recreation all nearby. Its location between Harbor Boulevard and State Route 55 provides convenient connectivity throughout Costa Mesa and to surrounding employment centers. Together, the property's renovated existing units, approved 5-unit ADU expansion and strong Costa Mesa location create a compelling combination of current quality and meaningful future upside.

383 W Wilson Street, Costa Mesa

2859 Hickory Place, Costa Mesa
$1,999,900
V1-38449 MLS ⋅ Active Status
Excellent opportunity to acquire a well-located four-unit investment property in the heart of Costa Mesa, offering an attractive combination of strong in-place rental income and meaningful future upside. With rents currently below projected market levels, the property provides an investor with the opportunity to increase income over time while benefiting from four established rental income streams. The desirable unit mix consists of one three-bedroom residence and three two-bedroom residences, providing larger and more versatile floor plans than many typical apartment investments. This mix appeals to a broad tenant base, including professionals, couples, families and those seeking additional space for a home office. Tenants pay their own gas and electricity, helping reduce the owner's exposure to rising utility costs. The property's central Costa Mesa location is a significant advantage. Residents enjoy convenient access to South Coast Plaza, South Coast Metro, Orange Coast College and John Wayne Airport, along with the employment, shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities found throughout Costa Mesa and neighboring Irvine. Newport Beach and Huntington Beach are also just minutes away, providing easy access to some of Orange County's most desirable coastal communities. Excellent freeway accessibility via the 405, 55 and 73 makes the property convenient for tenants working throughout Orange County. Costa Mesa's combination of employment, entertainment, shopping, education and proximity to the coast continues to make it a highly desirable rental market. For an investor seeking a smaller multifamily property with existing cash flow, multiple income streams and the potential for future rental growth, this property offers a compelling opportunity in one of Orange County's most desirable and centrally located communities.

2859 Hickory Place, Costa Mesa

741 W 18th, Costa Mesa
$1,650,000
NP26174521 MLS ⋅ Active Status
WESTSIDE COSTA MESA FOUR PLEX | EXCEPTIONAL COASTAL ORANGE COUNTY LOCATION Welcome to 741 W. 18th Street, a well-positioned four-unit property in the highly desirable Westside Costa Mesa community. This approximately 2,512-square-foot multifamily property sits on an approximately 6,120-square-foot lot and features a versatile unit mix of two 2-bedroom/1-bath residences and two 1-bedroom/1-bath residences. Each residence offers its own private outdoor space, creating an appealing living environment for residents while adding to the property's overall desirability. The property also offers convenient parking with a combination of garage and carport spaces. The location is truly one of the property's greatest assets. Situated in the heart of Westside Costa Mesa, residents enjoy close proximity to Triangle Square, Costa Mesa Courtyards, local restaurants, shopping, entertainment and everyday conveniences. The property is also just minutes from the area's renowned beaches, with easy access to Pacific Coast Highway and the coastal communities of Newport Beach and Huntington Beach. Westside Costa Mesa continues to be one of Orange County's most sought-after locations, known for its vibrant atmosphere, coastal lifestyle, excellent dining and entertainment, and convenient access to major employment centers and transportation corridors. With four separate residences, desirable unit sizes, private outdoor areas and an exceptional Costa Mesa location, 741 W. 18th Street presents an attractive opportunity to own a multifamily property in one of coastal Orange County's most established and desirable neighborhoods. Buyer and buyer's agent to independently verify all property characteristics, square footage, zoning, unit configuration, rental information, parking and other property information.

741 W 18th, Costa Mesa

223 Mesa Drive, Costa Mesa
$2,300,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 26870677 MLS ⋅ Active Status
223 Mesa Drive, offered together with the adjacent 215 Mesa Drive, is a rare luxury residential development opportunity in the heart of Eastside Costa Mesa, one of Orange County's most sought-after coastal communities. The project has secured conditional approval of a Vesting Tentative Parcel Map from the City of Costa Mesa for four detached homes on individually owned fee simple lots, delivering an approved development path forward. Together the two contiguous parcels total approximately 18,651 square feet (0.428 acres), zoned R2-MD. Upon completion, the site delivers four detached, two-story residences, each designed as a four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bath home ranging from approximately 2,572 to 2,940 square feet, with contemporary architecture, open concept floor plans, private yards, and two-car garages. The sale includes a comprehensive Due Diligence Package with architectural plans, engineering, grading, landscape plans, surveys, subdivision documents, renderings, and entitlement materials, allowing a buyer to reduce upfront soft costs and entitlement risk and focus on carrying the project through to construction. Set on a quiet, tree-lined street minutes from Newport Beach, Fashion Island, South Coast Plaza, and John Wayne Airport, the property sits within a neighborhood anchored by top-rated schools and premier coastal amenities. With conditional approval secured, a full design package in hand, and a site plan reflecting 9.35 units per acre, this is a rare chance to acquire a well-located, near-ready coastal infill project in a supply-constrained market. This parcel is listed at $2,300,000 and must be sold together with the adjacent parcel (215 Mesa Drive) as a single transaction, for a combined purchase price of $4,600,000. The two parcels are offered concurrently and cannot be sold separately.

223 Mesa Drive, Costa Mesa

2653 Santa Ana, Costa Mesa
$3,199,000
PW26165836 MLS ⋅ Active Status
Exceptional four-unit investment opportunity on an expansive 11,000+ square foot lot in one of Costa Mesa's most desirable rental markets. Fully occupied and generating immediate cash flow, this rare offering combines stable income, significant value-add potential, and exceptional long-term appreciation. All four units are currently leased, providing strong in-place income, with two recently renovated units and a long-term tenant contributing to stable occupancy. Investors can enjoy dependable cash flow today while benefiting from future rental growth as units turn over. Beyond its current income, the property's greatest asset is its oversized 11,000+ square foot lot and eight detached garages, creating exciting possibilities for ADU conversions or other future development opportunities (buyer to verify with the City of Costa Mesa). Whether your investment strategy is to maximize rental income, add value through future improvements, or capitalize on the property's redevelopment potential, this unique asset offers flexibility rarely found in coastal Orange County. Ideally located just minutes from Orange Coast College, Newport Beach, John Wayne Airport, Kaiser Permanente, the popular 17th Street dining and shopping district, Triangle Square, and the 55, 73, and 405 Freeways, the property enjoys exceptional convenience and consistently strong tenant demand. Investment opportunities offering this combination of immediate cash flow, an oversized lot with potential ADU opportunities, and a premier Costa Mesa location are exceptionally rare. Whether you're expanding your portfolio or securing a legacy investment with multiple paths for future growth, this property delivers the income, location, and upside today's investors are seeking.

2653 Santa Ana, Costa Mesa

3045 Coolidge, Costa Mesa
$1,575,000
OC26159419 MLS ⋅ Active Under Contract Status
NEW PRICE! Huge Price Improvement . Exceptional Costa Mesa Triplex Investment Opportunity Rarely does a property like this become available in one of Costa Mesa's most desirable rental neighborhoods. Situated on a prime corner lot at 3045 Coolidge Avenue, this well-positioned triplex offers an outstanding investment opportunity featuring three spacious 2-bedroom, 1 and 2 bath units, each with generously sized floor plans that consistently appeal to long-term tenants. The property's corner location provides an attractive residential setting, bordered by established single-family homes on one side and multifamily residences on the other—creating the perfect balance of neighborhood charm and strong rental demand. The building offers excellent curb appeal, abundant natural light, and a layout that tenants love. Location is everything, and this property delivers. Residents enjoy walking distance to Paularino Elementary School, nearby parks, neighborhood shopping, restaurants, and everyday conveniences. The property is just minutes from South Coast Plaza, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Orange Coast College, John Wayne Airport, and the world-famous beaches of Newport Beach and Huntington Beach. Easy access to the 55, 405, and 73 Freeways makes commuting throughout Orange County exceptionally convenient. Costa Mesa continues to be one of Orange County's strongest rental markets, driven by its central location, vibrant employment base, highly desirable coastal lifestyle, and proximity to major business centers. The city boasts more than 80,000 jobs, a thriving economy, outstanding dining and entertainment, and one of Southern California's most sought-after lifestyles—making quality rental housing consistently attractive to tenants. -Three large 2-bedroom units -Prime corner location -Excellent tenant appeal -Walking distance to schools -Strong rental demand -Close to beaches, shopping, employment centers, and freeways -Located in one of Orange County's most desirable investment markets Investment opportunities in this location are increasingly difficult to find. This is your chance to own a quality income-producing asset in the heart of Costa Mesa—where strong fundamentals, exceptional location, and long-term appreciation potential come together to create an outstanding real estate investment. A true turnkey addition to any investment portfolio .

3045 Coolidge, Costa Mesa

131 E 21st Street, Costa Mesa
$3,490,000
OC26116869 MLS ⋅ Active Status
SEE OFFERING MEMORANDUM IN SUPPLEMENTS. Rare pride-of-ownership 5-unit investment opportunity located in highly desirable Eastside Costa Mesa. Offered for sale for the first time in approximately 27 years, this well-maintained asset occupies an expansive approximately 15,746 square foot lot and features a unique low-density cottage-style layout with lots of attractive features and benefits. Improvements include a freestanding 2-bedroom, 1-bath residence positioned at the front of the property, along with four additional units located within two separate residential buildings at the rear. Unit mix consists of two 1-bedroom units and two 2-bedroom units. A defining characteristic of the offering is its abundance of private outdoor space. The front residence enjoys a large enclosed front yard with white picket vinyl fence and private rear yard, while each remaining unit benefits from its own yard, patio, or outdoor living area. This residential environment has contributed to strong tenant retention and consistent rental demand over many years. Residents enjoy amenities seldom found in comparable investment properties, including six enclosed garages, five equipped with automatic openers, in-unit washer and dryer hookups, and off-street parking for approximately eight vehicles. One garage is currently leased separately, generating additional monthly income. Generous parking, private outdoor areas, and thoughtful site design further enhance long-term resident appeal. From an operational standpoint, ownership benefits from a favorable utility structure. Gas and electricity are separately metered with no house gas or electric meters, helping reduce operating costs. Each residence is equipped with its own water heater, with residents responsible for individual gas consumption. Operating expenses remain straightforward and consist primarily of water, trash service, property taxes, insurance, landscaping, and professional management. Eastside Costa Mesa continues to rank among Orange County's most desirable rental markets, driven by its proximity to Newport Beach, major employment centers, premier shopping, dining, and coastal recreation. Convenient access to Newport Boulevard and the 55 Freeway further strengthens location appeal. This offering presents a rare opportunity to acquire a quality multifamily investment in one of Southern California's most sought-after rental submarkets.

131 E 21st Street, Costa Mesa

Start Your Search

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.

How much is your home worth?

Get instant property value now!