Why October 2025 Matters in Orange County Real Estate

Orange County has always been one of California’s most competitive and desirable housing markets. From the luxury oceanfront estates of Laguna Beach & Newport Beach to the family-friendly communities in Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach and Irvine, the region consistently ranks among the most dynamic real estate markets in the U.S.

October 2025 stands out as a pivotal month because it reflects both the seasonal slowdown that traditionally occurs in fall and the new pressures created by shifting interest rates, inflation concerns, and demographic changes. Buyers and sellers alike are asking: Is the Orange County housing market still climbing, stabilizing, or due for a correction?

This article…

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Why September 2025 Matters for Orange County Real Estate

September traditionally marks a turning point in Southern California housing. Families have wrapped up summer moves, schools are back in session, and serious buyers re-emerge after seasonal slowdowns. In Orange County—particularly Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach—this year’s September data reveals powerful shifts that buyers, sellers, and investors can’t afford to ignore.

Insight #1: Inventory Levels Hit an All-Time Low
  • Costa Mesa inventory dropped 14% year-over-year, limiting options for first-time buyers.
  • Huntington Beach saw a 10% decline in active listings, largely due to homeowners holding onto low-rate mortgages.
Costa Mesa Inventory Breakdown
  • Median days on…

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Introduction to Real Estate Marketing Strategies

Marketing isn’t just an optional add-on in real estate—it’s the heartbeat of sales success. Without it, even the most beautiful listings can sit unnoticed. The right real estate marketing strategies can help you connect with buyers, build credibility, and create a steady pipeline of leads.

The Importance of Digital Presence
Building a Professional Real Estate Website

Your website is your digital storefront. Make sure it’s:

  • Mobile-friendly
  • IDX-integrated
  • Easy to navigate
Optimizing for SEO

Good SEO ensures your listings are found before competitors. Focus on:

  • Local keywords
  • Blogging about market trends
  • Optimizing Google Business Profile
Leveraging Social…

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Why We Love (and Hate) Zillow Descriptions

Zillow has become a national pastime. Some people binge Netflix; others scroll Instagram. And then there are those of us who fall down the Zillow rabbit hole at 11 p.m., suddenly convinced that our true calling is renovating a 1920s craftsman in a neighborhood we couldn’t find on a map without GPS.

But here’s the catch: the descriptions. They read like poetry written by someone trying to convince you that a shoe closet is actually a “flexible living space.” Words like “cozy,” “charming,” and “original details” lure you in, only for reality to slap you with low ceilings, slanted floors, and wallpaper that’s been slowly peeling since Nixon was in office.

Real estate listings aren’t lies—they’re……

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In August 2025, Orange County’s housing market is shifting gears. After years of runaway growth, the latest data shows a softening in countywide prices even as select pockets like Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach continue to showcase resilience. Median home prices across Orange County slipped by $55,000 compared to the previous month, dropping from $1.23 million to $1.175 million. Yet Costa Mesa recorded a strong year-over-year (YoY) increase of 8.8%, while Southeast Huntington Beach (especially the sought-after 92649 zip code) saw steady appreciation of nearly 5%.

This mixed bag of trends creates a fascinating landscape for buyers, sellers, and investors. With homes staying on the market longer—averaging 91 days, the longest since 2014—and over 60%…

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Introduction: Why Costa Mesa is a House Flipper’s Dream

Costa Mesa, located in the heart of Orange County, has quietly transformed into a prime market for property investors. With its eclectic mix of coastal charm, vibrant nightlife, excellent schools, and easy freeway access, it’s no surprise that buyers are lining up to call this city home. For those looking to flip houses, Costa Mesa offers a unique balance of demand, appreciation potential, and diverse neighborhoods.

The city’s real estate scene has been buoyed by steady population growth, high-income demographics, and a strong job market in surrounding cities like Irvine and Newport Beach. But beyond these stats, Costa Mesa has an intangible appeal—a laid-back yet sophisticated…

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WE ARE HALFWAY THROUGH 2025!

Dear Mesa Verde Neighbors,

Another 6 months have passed since my last neighborhood update, and it feels like so much has happened in such a short amount of time! Mesa Verde continues to be the hottest place to buy in Costa Mesa with Eastside Costa Mesa being the only comparable demand. I vehemently believe (with an incredible amount of bias) that our area is beyond anything Eastside Costa Mesa could ever hope to be. There is not one tract in the city with the sense of community we have let alone with an incredible country club located at its epicenter…and we do not have airplanes flying overhead every five minutes!

2025 has been wild thus far for varying reasons. Whether it be political, economical, or societal, we…

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Get ready, Mesa Verde! The most anticipated neighborhood tradition of the year is almost here: our annual 4th of July Celebration and Bike Parade is rolling back into town, and you’re invited to join the fun.

What’s Happening?

On the morning of July 4th, we’re bringing together neighbors, families, and friends for a star-spangled celebration you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re new to the area or a longtime resident, this is the perfect way to kick off Independence Day and connect with the heart of our Mesa Verde community.

Event Details:

Date: 4th of July

Time: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM (Bike Parade to follow)

Location: Adams Elementary School Parking Lot

Parade Start: 10:00 AM going out of parking lot taking a right on Samar Drive

…

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Let’s be honest—house hunting is basically speed dating with drywall.

You swipe through photos online, zoom in on questionable carpet choices, and wonder if that “charming vintage detail” is code for someone painted over a doorknob. You show up to open houses already emotionally committed… only to find out the neighbor’s rooster does not observe quiet hours.

Welcome to real estate.

Here at The L3, we believe buying or selling a home shouldn’t feel like a reality show with dramatic music and surprise plumbing leaks. Sure, there might be a few plot twists (see: that one home with the sunken living room and sunken ceiling), but we’re here to help you laugh, plan smart, and make confident moves—whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or just finally…

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If you’re thinking of planting roots in Orange County, two names probably top your list: Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach. These neighboring coastal cities offer very different vibes—and depending on your lifestyle, one may be the perfect fit for your next move.

Let’s break down how each city stacks up in terms of schools, nightlife, walkability, beach access, and overall lifestyle to help you find your match.

Schools & Education

Costa Mesa:
  • Served primarily by the Newport-Mesa Unified School District, Costa Mesa offers a variety of public and private options. The city is also home to Orange Coast College, making it ideal for families with college-aged kids or those pursuing continuing education.
Huntington Beach:
  • Known for…

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