by Scott Murphy
Many top executives at large investment banking firms will be depositing some jumbo bonuses by the end of this month–and I can’t help but wonder if San Diego real estate and luxury home sales will also get a boost from this largesse.
Despite an overall bonus decrease of 10% due to months of multibillion-dollar bank write-downs and a spreading credit crisis, many will be pocketing some still-sizeable sums.
Depending on which firm they work for and the position held, some of these Wall Street and corporate bonuses can range anywhere from up to $2 million to $50 million.
Real estate prices this year have dropped and where else should these high earners invest their bonuses?
According to Forbes, some of these bonus recipients may also be rookies as well as first time homebuyers looking in the $5 to 6 million range. For top executives, the bonuses will be substantially more and potentially leading them towards the $20,000,000 home range.
Some rich real estate markets such as Manhattan, San Diego, the Silicon Valley area, Los Angeles and other top markets, just might see an increase of sales come the end of the year. Interest is already brewing in a number of these luxury markets.
In the coastal San Diego real estate market for example, Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, La Jolla, Carmel Valley, Coronado, Solana Beach, Cardiff, Encinitas, Carlbad and downtown San Diego (all coastal) offer some of the finest luxury homes in San Diego County. Inventory levels are also attractive for these flush buyers, which should make the home shopping experience even more fun.
At the other end of the country, many bonus-rich buyers will be shopping properties in Manhattan including townhomes overlooking Central Park, which have asking prices at $50,000,000 or more. These executives might not be able to pay cash for one of these properties, but can rest assured that large down payments will be coming from a secure source.
Of course the purchase of one of these homes will depend on the size of the bonus. But for some just starting out in the business, a nice condo in a great location would work very nicely–and San Diego might be just the ticket.
Heres wishing fat bonuses to all!
For additional information call Scott or Roberta Murphy at either 760-942-9100 or call/text at 760-613-6190
Curious about most expensive homes in Rancho Santa Fe, Del Mar, La Jolla and other fine communities?
177 Shorewood Drive Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352
$6,500,000
11
Beds
9
Baths
14,173
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
11513899
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Only 1 and a half hours from Los Angeles to Paradise! LAKEFRONT!The Ultimate Lake Arrowhead Lakefront! Not another like it. Surrounded by water on 3 sides. Custom Built. Presidential Master Bedroom Suite with 2 Fireplaces and Wet Bar. Entirely Separate Guest Wing within residence with 4 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, Grandscale Living/Game Room with Bar. Gentleman's Sports Bar and Lounge. Elevator. Grand Patio Area. Double Dock. Spa and Sauna. Separate 2 Bedroom Guest House. Total of 9 Bedrooms and 8 baths. 2 Garages. Wonderful Guest House as well.
1002 S Kamini Hydra Piraeus Greece Outside Area (inside Ca), CA 18040
$6,825,000
5
Beds
--
Bath
4,830
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
13708901
Property Type
Single Family Residence
One of the islands that are most near Athens, is Hydra, renowned for its cosmopolitan lifestyle, its natural beauty, its supply of Greek Ministers, and of Greek Navy admirals.Many a celebrity can be seen in Hydra every summer, most of them proud owners of properties.We are very proud to say, that for the first time ever, the villa of one of the most famous Greek Patriots from the 1821 successful revolt of the Greeks against the Ottoman Empire, is on the market. The villa of the beloved and much admired and revered admiral Miaoulis, has been painstakingly restored to its original glory by the famous Greek architect Varangis. With dreamy, unobstructed views of the Hydra straits, this unique piece of history, built in 1808, is something not to be missed by those who can truly appreciate an one of a kind property when they see it. Agents please read Private Remarks
25 Montage Way Laguna Beach, CA 92651
$22,995,000
6
Beds
8
Baths
8,315
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
NP14248331
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Situated on a private parcel at one of the world's most prestigious resorts, this newly constructed custom estate heightens every experience making life truly extraordinary. Spanning Pacific Ocean & Catalina Island views set the backdrop for every luxe detail in this 8,300+ square foot masterpiece, which was expertly designed by architect Chris Light to take full advantage of the residence?s close coastal proximity. A glass bridge invites you to this meticulously considered floor plan boasting a Great Room, formal dining room & master suite on the upper living level. Traversing to the lower level reveals grand living spaces encompassing a state-of-the-art game room, full theater room, stately library, wine cellar and tasting room & exercise room. This elevator-serviced residence is defined by zero-transition indoor & outdoor living spaces that surround the property, enticing you to indulge in the loggia, patio or courtyard as you take in color-soaked sunsets over the coast. The perfectly manicured exterior offers luscious landscaping and tranquil fountains to create the ultimate in grand-scale entertaining. This resort-style estate offers coveted access to all luxurious amenities of the resort including personal concierge services, spa & private dining.
325 Whispering Pines Drive Arcadia, CA 91006
$7,880,000
6
Beds
8
Baths
9,074
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
AR15123709
Property Type
Single Family Residence
This beautiful luxury property is situated in the exclusive Whispering Pines Estates in Arcadia with its award winning school district. With 24 hour gated security and patrols, safety and privacy are priceless features and offer peace of mind. The prime location reveals a 270 degree view of the entire LA landscape, which is enjoyed throughout the custom home and infinity pool. The two story mansion designed by a local renowned architect is sophisticated and contemporary, offering over 9,500 square feet of living space . Upon entering the front door, a grand two story foyer greets the homeowner and guests, and the open floor plan features a living room and dining room right off the main hall, perfect for entertaining. The spacious family room and custom kitchen with Viking appliances and imported marble create a perfect area for family and guests, while a large office and two bedrooms completes the ground floor. A custom staircase and interior elevator lead to the second floor, which features a grand master with large walk in closet and bath spa, three bedrooms, family area, and attic gym. Homes do not appear on the market often in this exclusive community, and this is truly a unique opportunity for a signature piece of real estate in the neighborhood.
11 Pelican Vista Drive Newport Coast, CA 92657
$13,980,000
4
Beds
9
Baths
7,644
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
NP15171032
Property Type
Single Family Residence
A modern masterwork in Newport Coast, 11 Pelican Vista represents a perfect intersection of architecture, design, and technology. Ocean and harbor views perfectly complement a contemporary interior, featuring a spacious floorplan and an abundance of natural light. The light that fills this stunning home is what defines it. From the thousand-crystal chandelier that dominates the massive entryway, to the customizable LED system subtly installed in every room, light is what makes this home unforgettable. Control the light with the flick of a finger on any one of the Crestron panels throughout the home: raise and lower shades, change colors, and set custom profiles with ease using the intuitive system. The lighting effects are amplified by the gleaming white finishes throughout the property; premium materials on every surface create an incomparable meeting of modernity and luxury. Bang & Olufsen multimedia equipment can be found in every zone of the property, creating amazing audiovisual experiences that follow you from room to room. Miele appliances and Dorn Bacht fixtures complete the sense of pervasive luxury that make 11 Pelican Vista such an unforgettable property.
6710 El Montevideo Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
$19,995,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,460
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
150060589
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Variance granted 150060590. A spectacular and rare 16.5 acre all usable parcel in Rancho Santa Fe. Stunning views of the mountains, 8 separate parcels, on a non-covenant island surrounded by covenant properties. Lots of possibilities...large estate, family compound or development opportunity. Neighborhoods: Rancho Santa Fe Other Fees: 0 Sewer: Sewer Connected Topography: LL,RSLP Bed 2 Dimension: 12x12 Bed 3 Dimension: 0 Dining Room Dimen: 10x6 Family Room Dim: 0 Kitchen Dim: 10x8 Living Room Dim: 18x14 Master Bedroom Dim: 12x12
3191 17 Mile Drive Pebble Beach, CA 93953
$9,900,000
5
Beds
9
Baths
10,537
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
ML81549014
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Set in a stunning location on almost 3 acres of land in sight of the Pacific Ocean and protected by the only native, first-growth majestic Monterey Cypress tree forest in Pebble Beach, StoneGate epitomizes the harmony of sea and land. Situated along the famous 17 Mile Dr. between the renowned Cypress Point Club and the legendary Lone Cypress, is where the owner envisioned a home congruous with nature and human endeavors. The estate is centrally positioned where visitors can play golf at the world-class Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course. The owner shared his vision with the master architect, John Matthams, to design an estate with inspirations from Newport RI mansions, English manors, and French Chateaux. Sculpted by the hands of 122 craftsmen over 2 years, the details and quality emanate throughout the property. Featuring 5 bedrooms, 5 baths and 3 half bathrooms, plus a guest house with its own bedroom, StoneGate is a destination to reflect, to play, and to share.
16421 Pacific Coast Highway Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
$25,000,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
--
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
16101700
Property Type
Single Family Residence
The largest residential property South of Sunset Blvd in the entire Los Angeles basin. 33 magical acres, 8 horse stalls and turnout several acres level, a small 3 bedroom 2 bath ranch home. 600 feet frontage on Will Rogers' Beach with unobstructed Queen Neckless views, year round streams. This property is almost one mile long. Best suited for one large estate. Nothing compares.
33 Monarch Bay Drive Dana Point, CA 92629
$15,995,000
5
Beds
7
Baths
10,900
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
LG16086496
Property Type
Single Family Residence
This stunning oceanfront home is angled on an elevated promontory capturing miles of uninterrupted coastline and cerulean blue ocean as far as the eye can see. Built in 2003, the spacious 10,900 square foot contemporary home unfolds with an impressive entry, wide gallery halls, volume ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glass, wonderful natural light and warm ocean breezes. The breathtaking ocean views extend past broad limestone terraces while a secluded central courtyard is perfect for entertaining with outdoor fireplace, cook center, and spa. Five en suite bedrooms include well-designed guest quarters, a chef-grade kitchen with Butler?s pantry and caterer?s entry, dramatic living room with wrap-around views, two elevators, wine cellar, and oversized motor court leading to three car garage. Monarch Bay is a guard-gated community with 24-hour security, tennis, private Beach Club on the sand, and rests in close proximity to Monarch Links Golf and the St. Regis, Ritz Carlton and Montage Resorts. Considered the premier oceanfront location in Monarch Bay, this fine residence offers unmatched space, design and coastal views above the crashing surf.
928 Emerald Bay Laguna Beach, CA 92651
$6,200,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
5,558
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
LG16121633
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Architectural Contemporary Masterpiece. Located on the hillside of Emerald Bay with ocean views that include Emerald Bay beach and night lights of North Laguna. This stunning home features the spectacular use of black granite, gorgeous polished steel stair railings, and the creative use of glass block to filter the daylight. The living and dining rooms are highlighted by a six by fourteen foot glass block window that becomes a piece of art because of the exterior four color programmable lighting system that gradually changes the color of the window with controls that blend the colors, intensities, and brightness in a sequence of changes that is gradual and subtle. This home offers five bedrooms, four and a half baths, and a convenient just off the beach shower, there is a huge recreation room with ping pong and pool tables. Also, a family room or den, a fabulous kitchen and breakfast room, a dedicated computer center, plus two office spaces and ocean view balconies off the master suite and the main floor. A private, enclosed rear patio features a spa and outdoor dining space.
92 Emerald Bay Laguna Beach, CA 92651
$23,500,000
5
Beds
5.5
Baths
6,109
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
LG16126945
Property Type
Single Family Residence
This extraordinary property offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to own one of the few, but celebrated properties along the highly coveted front row of Emerald Bay, a treasured enclave of seaside homes nestled between the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and the hillsides of the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Magnificent, extraordinary, and unparalleled are words that only begin to describe this wonderful property located at the center of what is arguably the most beautiful beach along the Southern California coastline. This five level home is masterfully constructed offering five bedrooms and five and one half bathrooms with, panoramic views from each of the bedrooms and living areas. Other features include a grand and luxurious master suite, plentiful deck and outdoor space, a secluded beachside grass area and garden, jacuzzi that provides sit-down, sunset views, and direct beach access to the private and exclusive half-mile, white sand stretch of this alluring and scenic cove. The guard-gated community of Emerald Bay offers exceptional amenities that include six tennis courts, large pool complex, multiple parks and playgrounds, and an endless list of activities and events for residents of all ages.
35351 Carmel Valley Road Carmel Valley, CA 93924
$45,000,000
6
Beds
8
Baths
10,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
ML81593357
Property Type
Farm
Rana Creek Ranch: This incomparable and beautiful property is the largest private holding in Carmel Valley. It consists of 14,000 acres, including owner, manager, guest and staff residences, agricultural buildings and a 2900 ft private air strip. Property includes 12 legal parcels. Primarily agricultural with cattle grazing (300-450 head) and horse facilities. This private ranch is 7 miles from Carmel Valley village and 19 miles from Carmel-by-the-Sea and the world famous Pebble Beach golf links.