Explore Buying Guide

My goal is to guide you through every step, so you can rest easy in a home you love.

Find your dream home

OWNING A HOME IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Southern California is one of the most dynamic and competitive real estate markets in the country. We understand that deciding to purchase a home here can feel like an overwhelming journey—from understanding the unique differences between townhomes, condos, and single-family homes to preparing for inspections, closing costs, and navigating local regulations, there’s a lot to consider.

That’s why we’ve created this buyer’s guide—to help you feel confident, informed, and ready to take the next step toward owning a home in Southern California with ease.

Step:1

FIND AN AGENT

Partner with a licensed real estate professional who understands the ins and outs of the neighborhoods you’re exploring and can expertly navigate you through the home-buying process.

Step:2

START WITH PRE-APPROVAL

Before you dive into your home search, it’s essential to get pre-qualified for a mortgage (unless you plan to purchase with all cash). A Livein Southern California agent can introduce you to a trusted mortgage professional. By evaluating your credit and financial background, the lender will estimate how much financing you qualify for—giving you a clear idea of your budget and helping you focus your search.

Step:3

TOUR HOMES

Explore a variety of homes and neighborhoods by attending showings and open houses. This is your opportunity to evaluate different layouts, locations, and features to see what best fits your lifestyle and priorities.

Step:4

MAKE AN OFFER

Once you’ve found a property that feels right, it’s time to agree on price and terms with the seller. Your Livein Southern California agent will prepare and submit your offer—a non-binding proposal stating the amount you’re willing to pay. If your offer is below the asking price, the seller may respond with a counteroffer. You can then accept, decline, or negotiate further. Throughout the process, your agent will guide you with expert pricing advice and negotiation strategies.

My mission is to offer you a truly tailored experience, focused on helping you find and purchase the home of your dreams.

Find your dream home

Step:5

CONDUCT A THOROUGH REVIEWS

Your agent and her team will carefully examine the purchase agreement, property documents, and any relevant disclosures or financial records. It’s important to work with a professional experienced in Southern California real estate transactions, especially when dealing with condos, HOAs, or unique property types. Your agent’s knowledge plays a key role in safeguarding your interests and ensuring all aspects are in order before you move forward.

Step:6

ENTER INTO CONTRACT

Once the terms are agreed upon, you’ll sign the purchase agreement and submit your earnest money deposit—typically around 3% of the home’s purchase price. This step officially moves the process forward toward closing.

Step:7

FINALIZING THE DETAILS

As you near closing day, we’ll work closely with your lender, title company, and legal team to ensure all documents are in order and everything is set for a seamless transaction.

Featured Property Listing

Find your dream home with Live in southern california

Welcome to Cotton Point, an exclusive enclave at the southernmost tip of San Clemente. This high security double-gated community is home to innovators and leaders, and is still where the “Western White House, Casa Pacifica" exists. Enjoy a convenient beach pathway to breathtaking ocean vistas overlooking renowned surf breaks and exclusive direct beach access through neighboring Cypress Shores. This is more than a neighborhood; it’s a private sanctuary redefining excellence. The estate at 4060 Calle Isabella pays homage to Spanish Revival architecture with hand-hewn beams, custom wrought iron, and artisan finishes that evoke warmth and elegance with appeal that will be appreciated by design enthusiasts and history lovers alike. The Spanish Mediterranean feel is enhanced by stucco walls, soft color tones, rustic elements, and a red clay tile roof creating a richly layered design complemented by arched doorways, a fountain, covered loggia and charming courtyards within the surrounding lush landscape. Inside, a multi-generational floor plan features a main level with formal living and dining rooms, fireplace, two generous bedrooms, two full size bathrooms, casual room, powder room and a very spacious kitchen. The second level provides bonus living space, laundry room, an office, two bedrooms sharing a “Hollywood” bathroom, and a primary suite with ocean-facing deck to enjoy fragrant ocean breezes, peek ocean views and a vantage point to overlook the large swimming size eighteen by forty five foot pool and yard area. Additional features include a mudroom, fire suppression system, Dutch doors, a dumbwaiter, radiant floor heating, and a garage plumbed for additional laundry area. The estate boasts carefully selected materials, including mahogany pillars, and exquisite chandeliers. Special finishes include blue Bahia and blue Macayuba quartzite, Rosa del monte marble, Loewen windows and Baldwin hardware. Flooring selections incorporate Honduran mahogany and Spanish Roja Alicante tumbled marble. Meticulously landscaped front and rear yards feature specimen trees that grace the property with appealing textures and vibrant colors creating a sense of well being. Highly regarded public schools as well as private schools are nearby along with numerous restaurants and shops at charming old town Del Mar street. Three car garage and deep driveway area for guest parking. This estate is an opportunity to claim your place among the elite at the pinnacle of coastal living. $9,995,000 Active

4060 Calle Isabella San Clemente, California

5 Beds 5 Baths 7,181 SqFt 0.696 Acres

Listed by: Michael Caruso, DRE #01073919 from Christie's International R.E. Southern California 949-584-2300

Commanding one of the most cinematic white-water views in all of San Clemente, this exceptional beachfront residence captures the entire coastline from T-Street and Lost Winds to Seal Rock, the historic SC Pier, and iconic Cottons Point. Rarely do homes offer such unobstructed, panoramic vistas from every room. Set within the gated, oceanfront community of La Ladera, this expanded 3,800+ sq ft residence rests on a prime corner lot and offers a seamless blend of refined design and effortless living. Originally remodeled prior to the current ownership, the home has since undergone further upgrades, including new Pella windows and doors, and state-of-the-art HVAC system. Thoughtfully designed for single-level living, the main floor includes the primary suite, all-new gourmet kitchen featuring top-tier appliances, living and dining areas—all with sweeping views of the Pacific. The lower level offers exceptional flexibility with two guest bedrooms, full baths, a spacious office or flex space, and direct access to a generous patio with side entrance—ideal for "lock-off" guest quarters or extended stays. A private gate leads directly to the beach and trail. Every inch of the home has been enhanced: wide-plank flooring throughout, a spa-like primary bathroom with oversized shower, new lighting and electrical systems, security, and landscaping by acclaimed MM Design. Additionally, approved and permitted architectural plans are in place to reconfigure the upstairs floor plan, offering future owners optionality without the delays of design and permitting. This turn-key residence represents a truly irreplaceable opportunity—a low-maintenance beachfront sanctuary with panoramic views, over 3,800 square feet, and a three-car garage, all within one of San Clemente’s most charming and private communities. $9,250,000 Active

326 Boca Del Canon San Clemente, California

4 Beds 5 Baths 3,837 SqFt 0.171 Acres

Listed by: Andrew Cotton, DRE #01895023 from Compass 949-374-1398

Set on the sand in the exclusive Capistrano Shores community, this rare double homesite offers ultimate California beachfront living, with panoramic whitewater, sunset, coastline, and beach views that stretch from the San Clemente Pier through the Headlands of Dana Point. Contemporary and highly upgraded, the main home provides four bedroom, four bathrooms, and the second home provides three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Lush outdoor space is equipped with security doors, tons of seating, a built-in BBQ and bar area, a storage area for all your beach accessories, and a partial glass enclosure for protection from the natural elements. The chic kitchen includes an oversized island, a large breakfast nook, a wet bar, and a full-size wine cooler with ample pantry storage space open to the well-appointed living room with a fireplace and security shutters to form a spectacular great room. Ocean views beyond comparison are throughout the open concept floor plan created by high ceilings, massive seamless windows, and stackable glass doors that lead to a spacious private courtyard. A laundry room, a bonus room, a three-quarter bath, a bedroom, and a powder room, both offering outdoor access, complete the bright and airy main level. The second level offers a large skylight, revealing a primary suite with panoramic ocean views, a windowed spa-like bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a deck with coastline views. Two additional bedrooms, a bathroom, a playroom equipped with a media stage, and built-in toy bins complete the second level. Additional highlights include porcelain tile flooring and wainscotting throughout, designer lighting and plumbing fixtures, electric window shades, security shutters, plantation shutters, multiple ceiling fans, A/C, built-in audio, golf cart parking, and four parking spots with an EV charging. Capistrano Shores is well located, with easy access to downtown San Clemente and its robust dining scene. Moments from scenic beach trails and community parks and located within an hour of most Southern California attractions. Experience the bliss of coastal living with this remarkable beachfront trophy property. $7,995,000 Active

1880 N El Camino Real 74 & 75 San Clemente, California

7 Beds 6 Baths 3,400 SqFt 0.149 Acres

Listed by: Casey Lesher, DRE #01795953 from Christie's International R.E. Southern California 949-702-7047

One of the most unique and private ocean and canyon view coastal lots in south Orange County...located at the end of a secluded bluff front cul de sac and backed up against the San Clemente State Park Nature Preserve. Tastefully designed by prestigious architect, James Glover, the six Bedroom, five Bath residence was built in 2000 and updated in 2014. The open concept floor plan offers a large Family Room adjacent to an incredible Kitchen with lots of storage and counter space, walk in Pantry and access to the formal Dining Room. There is an Office on the first floor as well as an en suite Bedroom. The beautiful Master Retreat is upstairs with a spacious deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean with breathtaking views of Catalina Island, Dana Point and Seal Rock. There are three more spacious Bedrooms and an Office upstairs with access to a Roof Deck with 360 degree coastal/city views. The backyard garden retreat with coastal view gazebo features a fire pit and BBQ that opens up to the ocean and canyon creating a special connection with nature right from your own yard. The three car Garage includes plenty of space for a gym, workshop area. The garage includes an EV charging station and lots of storage. The driveway is long with plenty of room for guests or additional parking. The Cyprus Cove guard gated community features a private beach, swimming pool and spa, two tennis/pickleball courts, basketball court, clubhouse and luscious green park. Enjoy the sights and sound of waves crashing on the beach. This is a wonderful opportunity to live the coastal dream! $7,900,000 Active

3811 Vista Blanca San Clemente, California

6 Beds 5 Baths 3,655 SqFt 0.285 Acres

Listed by: Gary Ward, DRE #01788028 from CENTURY 21 Affiliated 949-355-4426

Majestic bluff front Mediterranean estate with sweeping ocean vistas in the exclusive enclave of Cyprus Cove! Commanding an enviable position on the oceanfront bluff within the prestigious, guard-gated community of Cyprus Cove, this custom-built estate offers nearly 8,000 square feet of luxurious coastal living, with unobstructed, panoramic ocean and whitewater views. The soothing sound of waves crashing creates a sense of serenity that is truly unmatched. The interior is designed to impress, featuring soaring two-story ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and expansive living spaces that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. From the gourmet kitchen, luxurious primary suite, executive office, and more, enjoy unparalleled ocean views that elevate everyday living. With 6 spacious bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms, the home includes a grand, ocean-facing primary suite complete with a private balcony, retreat, fireplace, and breathtaking whitewater ocean views. A thoughtfully designed lower level offers guest quarters with a private entrance, an ideal accommodation for many. The backyard oasis is a true sanctuary, complete with a sparkling pool, spa, built-in BBQ, and manicured grounds, all set against the backdrop of the endless Pacific horizon, perfect for entertaining or serene sunset lounging. Residents of Cyprus Cove enjoy private beach access, a community clubhouse, pool and spa, tennis and basketball courts, and a beachfront park, making this a truly exceptional coastal lifestyle opportunity. Ideally situated just moments from San Clemente’s charming boutique shops and renowned dining on Del Mar, the San Clemente Pier, beach trail, and world-class surf breaks, this rare oceanfront estate offers access to a vibrant coastal lifestyle! $7,750,000 Active

3822 Vista Blanca San Clemente, California

6 Beds 6 Baths 7,912 SqFt 0.308 Acres

Listed by: Jeremy Conrad, DRE #01279209 from Conrad Realtors Inc 949-697-0721

One of the finest ocean view homes ever offered in San Clemente, this spectacular semi-custom home just underwent a multi-year reconstruction making it into the epitome of coastal luxury living. Sited within the coveted Alta area of Talega, this premier elevated corner location is exceptionally private, yet open, light and features horizon views of the Pacific and sunsets. One of only seven homes on this serene cul-de-sac, the house has been transformed with all the design elements and appointments to rival that of a new custom residence at twice this price. Walls were removed to expand the views and sightlines, lending to the atmosphere of this idyllic indoor/outdoor plan. A veritable paradise, a generous covered loggia (warmed by a fireplace) and mature gardens surround the private areas of the house and open to more terraces and an ocean view pool. Substantial and one-of-kind additions and improvements include: a private spa/gym/wellness retreat was created with an accompanying spa bath with steam shower; an expanded master suite with a sumptuous and elegant bath, dressing, and view terrace; a completely reconfigured and rebuilt kitchen with adjacent serving bar and a secondary preparatory kitchen fitted with an island as well as a custom designed and refrigerated produce and wine room; a meditation room insulated for silence (and easily converted to a golf simulator room); and a floating all-steel and stone clad staircase in the dramatic two-story entry distinguish this residence from all others. Details and appointments include new electrical and Lutron lighting systems throughout, a Generac back-up generator, custom inlaid and mosaic marble tiles, custom hand-crafted closets and built-ins throughout (including murphy beds), custom lighting+hardware+fixtures throughout, handcrafted solid hardwood floors, a Kalamazoo barbeque, and a spectacular custom metal entry door with custom designed glass insert. Truly, there are simply too many upgrades to cover in this description. Suffice to say that every inch of this home was reconsidered and redesigned to make it the ultimate contemporary version of what it could be. All of this was thoughtfully recreated in this highly desirable ocean-close location minutes from the coast’s finest amenities. For those in search of a substantial ocean view home in this award-winning community, but for whom the standard builder grade is not enough, you need look no further than here. You have found your new home. $6,800,000 Active

24 Via Carina San Clemente, California

4 Beds 6 Baths 5,263 SqFt 0.244 Acres

Listed by: Robert Giem, DRE #01082750 from Plus Real Estate 949-933-7046

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Live In Southern California specializes in luxury real estate throughout Southern California, offering unmatched experience in representing premier residential and investment properties. From coastal escapes to vibrant suburban communities, our team brings deep local knowledge and a passion for excellence to every transaction.

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