Simply an amazing night with our Boutique Family. A soft opening to our new headquarters in Corona Del Mar. What started of as a whim many years ago has truly changed all our lives forever. Thank you. We are truly speechless. www.TheBoutiqueRE.com
206 N Madrona Ave #108 is a Gorgeous Model Perfect End-Unit Townhome in The Heart of Brea. Located On A Peaceful Cul-De-Sac This Home Boasts Approximately 1,400 sq. ft. of Living Space with 3 Bedrooms & 2.5 Bathrooms. Open Concept Kitchen with views to Family Room. The Home Lays Out Perfectly into an Open Floor Plan and is Anchored by a Cozy Fireplace In The Family Room. Great Natural Light Beam Throughout This Home. Opulent Master Bedroom & Bathroom with Dual Vanities with Solid Surface Countertops, Custom Paint, Upgraded Floors and Walk-In Closet. Inside Laundry Room, Two Car Attached Garage with your own private Driveway. Great Entertainers Backyard with Plenty Of Room for Friends & Family to Enjoy. Walk to Downtown Brea, Birch Street Promenade, Movies, Improv, Fabulous Restaurants, Nightlife and Award Winning Schools. Low HOA and No Mello Roos.
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Walk us through a typical day in your life.
My day typically starts at 5 a.m., sometimes a bit earlier. I just get up out of bed. No alarm. I grab my phone and head downstairs. I am totally a morning person. I make a protein shake and jump on my laptop and scroll through emails, Twitter, Instagram and then Facebook. I usually check analytics on our website and social channels, and look at ad campaign results.
On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, I am at the Crossfit gym by 6 a.m. After the gym, I am at home helping get the kiddos—Hannah, Emma, and Cooper—get ready for school. Breakfast, clothes, homework review, and they are off to school by 8:30 a.m., and I am off to one of our offices. At 8 p.m. or so, I start shutting down.
Phone / tablet / laptop / desktop of choice?
iPhone 5S, iPad Air, MacBook Pro with Retina Display, iMac 27″ on my desk. We are an Apple company.
Apps you can’t live without?
DocuSign, DocuSign Transaction Room, DropBox, Facebook, Instagram, and recently I have been using Refresh as I am meeting with so many people.
Emails sent per day? Received?
My Google app business account said I received 7,000 emails last month, and I sent out 1,400.
Tell us about your market.
We tend to market homes above $1 million. It was not intentional, but our services are considered luxury and tend to attract those types of buyers and sellers.
Real estate marketing has truly evolved over the last 10 years. We have developed a comprehensive strategy which showcases our client’s home through real-life video—actual movies—amazing photography, 360 HD V-tours, individual property websites for each home, staging and interior design, custom graphics and design, and a social media content strategy that reaches people on a global scale.
We have complete control over our designs, feel and strategy when marketing luxury real estate. When surfing the web for real estate, our listings stand out: they have a unique look and feel, and buyers recognize our listings as being “boutique-ivied”—and we believe every home has a story.
Total number of transactions you worked on last year? Expected this year?
I personally did about 40 transactions last year with an average sales price of about $2 million. I will do about the same this year, but our price point has moved up. Look for our new office in the beach city of Corona Del Mar in Newport Beach as we launch into the coastal Orange County real estate market.
What made you choose a career in real estate?
After watching an agent “sell” our first home, I knew there had to be a better way. I personally held the open houses, I printed the flyers, I wrote the content. That was all pre-social.
It was so massively complicated, and we were so in the dark the whole way through. I had an “Ah, ha!” moment back in 2008 as technology and social media found real estate. We knew there had to be a better way of not only marketing real estate but also of managing the mountain of paperwork and people involved in a real estate transaction.
So in a sense, our team has digitized the real estate experience. You will never find our clients running to a fax machine and most likely never even pick up a pen to sign anything. We are a paperless office, completely mobile and can run an entire real estate transaction from our iPads and phones. Our technology does not require our clients to be tech savvy—it only requires our agents to understand the benefits of technology and to implement that technology with our clients.
What’s the biggest challenge the real estate industry faces today?
One of the biggest challenges in real estate today is that everyone seems to be swimming in the same pool. There is no original creative. Nobody wants to tell a story. There is an old quote, “Those who tell the stories rule the world.” What I love is when I meet someone, and they just instantly pick up with a story. We believe this type of mindset is so needed in our industry.
What advice would you give to new agents?
The advice I would give to a new agent entering into the world of real estate would be to join an amazing team. And I do not just mean a busy team, but an amazing, highly-respected team where you can learn, experience and absorb everything and anything that is real estate. That includes not only all the “beautiful and shiny” things that real estate offers, but also all the challenges that real estate brings each and everyday: from contracts, lender guidelines and appraisals to staging, photography, pre- and post-processing of photos, editing video, print campaigns and the entire social media and web content strategy.
Who inspires you the most?
Jesus Christ because he changed my heart.
Previous “A Day In The Life” articles:
Great memories of a fabulous listing we actually sold twice within a 1 year time span. #tbt
The villas dotting the hilltops in Andalusia, Spain provided the stimulus for this custom built residence nestled into the Northeast Slope of this Southern California coastal foothill known as Shady Canyon in Irvine. A thoughtful compilation of simple horizontal white washed building forms, brick elements, pointed arches, and moorish tile accents are evocative of an unintended complex of buildings evolved over multiple generations. This private & gated 1.15 acre site is punctuated with several natural rock outcroppings that the floor plan layout playfully incorporates as focal design points.
Designed by reknown local Orange County Architect, R. Douglas Mansfield, this Andalusian masterpiece sits on a private 1.15 Acre Flat Plot Tucked into the hillside of Shady Canyon at the end of a Cul-De-Sac and backing up to Bommer Canyon. Approximatley 6,300 sq ft of Living, Six Bedrooms, 7 Bathrooms, 4 Car Attached Garage, Dual Wine Cellars, Professional Grade Appliances & Whole Home Lutron Automation highlight this Private Retreat. The outdoor space capitalizes on the massive flat lot by incorporating a gated circular driveway, fruit orchard, perfectly manicured landscape, Salt-Water Pool & Spa, Fire-Pit & massive grassy area for entertaining family & friends.
Shady Canyon is Orange County’s premier, guard-gated golf course community located in beautiful Irvine. Surrounded by 16,000 acres of natural sanctuary, Shady Canyon has approximately 400 luxury homes and home sites that exhibit stunning architectural designs, luxurious landscapes, abundant space and natural attributes.
Search All Shady Canyon Homes Here.
Connect with a Boutique Agent Today.
Written by Melissa Sims
I spend probably half of my year at the beach. No joke. We are a family of surfers, scuba divers, spear gun hunters and stand-up paddlers. Squeezing the amazing beaches of Orange County into a ‘top 10’ is no easy task. With over 40 named beaches (and I’m sure numerous unnamed), trying to pick the best is like trying to compare wine to beer. You just can’t…each beach here in the OC has something unique and breathtaking about it. So let’s start south and head our way up.
1. San Onofre State Beach (my personal favorite)
Located in the southernmost coastal part of Orange County, San Onofre state beach is an old-school surfer mecca. You will not find any food stands or bike rentals here – this is strictly for the dedicated beach goer, as you have to be in line for parking no later than 6:00am on the weekend in order to find a spot. They let a limited number of cars in, so if you show up late, you can count on waiting for someone to leave before you get your spot. Why such a draw? Well, for starters, you park DIRECTLY in front of the sand. No sidewalks, no hauling your cart-o-crap. Just open up the trunk and set up shop. Everyone that comes here respects the beach, and usually respects you (as long as you aren’t THAT guy). The surfing at San Onofre, affectionately called ‘Old Man’s,’ is smooth, somewhat consistent and perfect for longboarders and beginners (on a small day). You won’t find a lot of young groms here ripping arials. It’s an awesome vibe and a clean beach – the San Onofre Surfing Club takes impeccable care of this beach, with hand-built showers and garden walks. Cost to park = $15 (or buy a state park annual pass for $195, good at any state beach).
Located in Dana Point, just south of the harbor, Doheny is notorious for it’s unhealthy water report. It has gotten cleaner in past years, but still ranks among the ‘bad’ in Orange County. So why is this beach on our list? Doheny is the ultimate beach trip – with an awesome snack shack, volleyball courts, barbeques, camping, grassy lawn and promenade with rentals. Doheny used to have one of the best breaks in Southern California, but once the jetty was built, the shape of the wave changed and it is now known as one of the best beginner spots in Orange County. In addition, the city of Dana Point puts on some spectacular events at Doheny, including Doheny Days, the Blues Festival and the annual Outrigger Canoe Races. Even if you don’t get in the water, Doheny is definitely worth a visit.
3. Salt Creek
Buzzing up the coast, just north of Doheny in Laguna Niguel, is a gem called Salt Creek. Not the easiest to get to from your car…you have to hike down a very steep hill to get to the beach, so pack lightly. The trek is worth it – trust me. With beautiful cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a view of the Ritz-Carlton high above, you’ll feel like you’ve found a private paradise – except for the crowds. It can get quite busy here, so head out early. There is a snack shack and restrooms here, so you really just need the essentials. Salt Creek is a popular spot for surfers and skim-boarders, and not always the best for swimming. There is also a grassy park above the beach, for those that just want the view. Metered parking.
4. Treasure Island, Laguna Beach
Arguably one of the MOST beautiful beaches in Southern California, Treasure Island Beach is located below the famous Montage Resort in Laguna Beach. Meander along spectacular paths, peppered with California native plants and views of the posh resort. Take the stairs down to the beach and you will understand why this beach is so special. Not only is this beach spectacular in its own right, it is also known for it’s protected tidepools. The Montage Resort offers docents to educate the public on busy weekends and holidays, during low tide. Metered parking, very limited.
I like to pretend this is my little secret, I’ve just let everyone in on it! Crescent Bay is a beach found in a residential area of Laguna Beach. It is not easy to park, nor easy to walk to…but locals love this spot for it’s sheer beauty. Surrounded by cliffs, with mega-mansions to gawk at, this crescent-shaped beach is absolutely stunning. No sound of trains or traffic…just crashing waves and seagulls and pelicans. You will spot the occasional dolphin or sea lion, but mostly just sparkling waters and easy-going people. Beware – the waves can get quite powerful. Limited metered street parking.
6. Crystal Cove State Park, Newport Beach
Personally, I’m a state park kind of gal. I love feeling like I am getting away from the crowds and enjoying the beauty of nature. If you like that too, you’ll love Crystal Cove. Surprisingly, this is right off of Coast Highway – but has a huge preserve between the water and the highway, so you’ll never hear any traffic noise. The park is quite expansive, with 3.2 miles of coastline, offering mountain biking, scuba/skin diving, horseback riding, swimming and surfing. There is also a campground across the street and primitive camping at Moro Ridge. In addition, Crystal Cove is home to the famous Beachcomber Café and the Crystal Cove Beach Cottages, available for rent through ReserveAmerica.com. The history of Crystal Cove dates back to the early 1900s, as a favorite spot of the Irvine family and shooting spot for many classic movies. This is definitely one of Orange County’s best treasures!
A favorite spot for families, Corona del Mar is located just south of the Newport Bay jetty, off of Ocean Blvd. and Breakers Drive. A huge parking lot and spectacular views bring lots of crowds, but this spot never feels touristy. This is a great beach for kids because the waves are much calmer than other local spots because of the jetty. But you’ve been warned – LOTS of kids. If you aren’t in the mood for that, go to elsewhere. Parking is $15, and even though this is a state beach, it is run by the City of Newport Beach – so you can’t use the annual parking pass here.
Little Corona is just south of Big Corona, off of Poppy Street. This is one of the only beaches where you don’t have to walk down stairs to get to the sand. It is a path entry, making wheeling your equipment down very easy. It has a public restroom and showers, and is a local favorite for diving and children. It is flanked on both sides with rocky reefs, so waves are not an issue here. Snorkeling is another favorite activity here. Street parking only.
If you want to see some of the biggest, most mind-boggling waves, go to the Wedge. On a big day, the surf can reach 30 feet…yes, that’s right. 30 feet! Not known for swimming, this is mainly for bodyboarding and body surfing, and if the sets are optimal, surfing. In the winter, this is a major spot for watching some serious talent. During summer months, from May-October, boards of any type are not allowed so that others can enjoy the water. Not only good for water-watching, the beach itself is great, and offers amazing sunset views.
Newport Beach is so spread out that it is hard to feel crowded in once you are on the sand. With great restaurants and bars close by, you’ll never get bored here. Rent a beach cruiser in town and experience Newport like the locals do. All thirteen of Newport’s beaches have been ranked superbly high in cleanliness. Just beware of major holidays, it can turn into a crowded party scene. If you want to be closer to the ‘scene’, head over towards 24th street. If you want to stay away from the crowds, head north, closer to 38th street or Superior. Parking is a nightmare, and you’ll likely circle for some time trying to find a street spot. But this is definitely not a beach you want to miss experiencing. Quintessential Orange County.
Infamous, or just famous? With recent press, Huntington Beach is getting a bad rap. 90% of the time, this beach is just like every other beach. But during major holidays and events, it has been known recently to have a rough crowd. Located just off Main Street and PCH, Huntington is one of the most recognized beaches in America. Regardless of some of the recent events here, people still visit in droves to experience Surf City at its finest. You have the best of everything here – surf, sand, good food and great people watching. Not only can you walk the pier, you can hop across the highway to some of the hottest party spots in town. Visit in early August and watch the US Open of Surfing. This year, promoters are banning alcohol sales and will not have live music – in an effort to bring the focus back to the sport of surfing, and away from partying. I say, ignore the bad press and give Huntington Beach a chance. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Honorable mention:
50% surfing, 50% people watching. Main beach is located in the busiest part of Laguna, right in the heart of downtown. There are volleyball and basketball courts right off the highway, and a boardwalk that snakes down the beach. There are tons of easily accessible restaurants right across the street, so don’t be surprised to see people walking barefoot through downtown in nothing but a bathing suit. This is probably the most crowded beach in Orange County…sometimes it is hard to see any sand because the beach is so full. This beach is great for families, as there is a large play area for kids. Regardless of the crowds, still one of the best beaches in OC. Park on a side street and you’ll be fine.
So, where will you be heading?
Connect with Melissa Sims at http://TheBoutiqueRE.com/Melissa-Sims or Melissa.Sims@TheBoutiqueRE.com
Please call 949-612-2535 for a private showing of this home.
32 Bell Chime is a Fully Upgraded Executive Home in The Portola Springs Community of Bougainvillea in Irvine. This Home Boasts Approximately 2,300 square feet of Living Space with 4 Bedrooms + Office (Optional 4th Bedroom) + Loft (Optional 5th Bedroom) & 3.5 Baths. Gourmet Chefs Kitchen with Granite Slab Countertops & Backsplash, Stainless Steel Appliances, Huge Center Island with Breakfast Bar. Beautiful Artisan Laid Travertine Tile Floors Downstairs with Coordinating Upgraded Carpet & Custom Paint Throughout. Media Niche in Living Room with In-Ceiling Speakers, Fireplace, Ceiling Fan, Custom Window Coverings & Whole Home Intercom. Opulent Master Bedroom with Balcony & Master Bathroom with Dual Vanities, Custom Backsplash, Spa Tub with Custom Tile Surround, Upgraded Tile Floors & Dual Walk-In Closets with Built-Ins. Second Level Office (Optional 4th Bedroom) with In-Ceiling Speakers & Media Center Built-Ins & 3rd Level Loft (Optional 5th Bedroom with Custom Built In Three Person Workstation and Private Bath. Great Entertainers Backyard with BBQ Island, Stainless Steel BBQ & Plenty of Room to Entertain. Two Car Attached Garage with Custom Built-Ins & Overhead Storage. Community Features include Clubhouse, Swimming Pool, Spa, Basketball & Tennis Courts, Playgrounds and Lush Parks. Minutes Away From The Irvine Spectrum, The Great Park, Fabulous Schools, Shopping, Dining, Entertainment & Easy Freeway Access.
