Blog

In a Market Like Emerald Bay, Timing and Strategy Are Everything.

July 25, 2025

Good morning,

While headlines often focus on national trends, real estate remains deeply local — and few places demonstrate that better than Emerald Bay. Job growth, consumer spending, and rising housing sentiment are reinforcing confidence across many segments of the real estate market — especially in high-demand areas like Emerald Bay.

Locally, activity has been steady but selective. There are currently ten active listings in Emerald Bay, with several quiet conversations happening off-market — a reminder that much of this community's movement happens privately. Homeowner retention remains strong, and pricing continues to reflect the unique value of this gated coastal enclave.

In a market like Emerald Bay, timing and strategy are everything. Whether you're weighing the right moment to list or looking for the right opportunity to buy, I'm here to offer clear insight and discreet guidance tailored to this exceptional neighborhood.

Let’s connect — even if just to catch up on the latest shifts in the market.

Information + Updates

Did You Know?

Brands from Louis Vuitton to Chanel have admitted they pushed prices up significantly between 2019 and 2023 to capitalise on buoyant demand for high-end handbags, clothes and jewellery.....not just inflation and rising labor and material costs. ie: that's called GREEDflation, or the ability to price up because the market is willing to pay. Between 2020-2023 they used inflation as the excuse, but...... just another example of how inflation narratives were used simply to charge more.....and more.....and more.....fueling record profits....till you hit a wall.

Did You Know?

Around 90% of trading today is speculation. The equity markets are supposed to be a vehicle for raising capital, but only a small fraction of annual trading volume actually serves that purpose. Is the rest noise? 13 of 100 gamblers win at a casino. One in 100 reliably beat the markets….

Did You Know?

Home sales in The Monterey Peninsula in California are up 2% compared to the same period in 2024. In the highly sought after areas cash buyers continue to represent a high percentage of sales to date; Carmel (70%), Pebble Beach (65%), Pacific Grove (53%), Carmel Valley (45%) and Monterey (35%), similar to the trend of cash buyers we have seen for the last 3 years in our annual report. The median price points of cash buyers are also higher. Carmel (+44%), Pebble Beach (+6%), Pacific Grove (+17%), Carmel Valley (+11%) and Monterey (+5%).

Did You Know?

US equity markets have rebounded from sharp sell-offs in April when tariffs were announced. While they achieve record highs, at the same time:

Supply side pressures through tariffs are beginning to feed into inflation and will only start registering next month when they kick in.
Employment is up but primarily in non-value adding local government services
US currency is weakening due to policy instability, down sharply in the first 6 months of 2025.
The US labor force is shrinking because of deportations which could add to rising labor costs.
US government debts are at historic highs and projected to grow. Lower rates could reduce the cost of servicing this debt.

Did You Know?

The number of individuals worth $30 million or more is expected to grow by 33% over the next five years. One in 22 residents of Monaco are worth $30 million or more....in Aspen it is one in 77.(New York Post/Altrata)

Did You Know?

A new proposed bill would create a government-backed loan program for homeowners to finance the construction of tiny homes on their properties. The bill aims to boost building of accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, in a new effort to tackle the nation’s severe housing shortage. These add-ons are small, studio-style housing units, usually between 600 and 1,200 square feet, that can supplement an existing home in the backyard, garage or basement. At least 1.4 million single-family homes in the U.S. had such units as of 2020, and their popularity is rising as more home owners seek ways to lower their housing costs by building and renting out units like these. Others build them to house adult children or grandparents, and home builders are increasingly including ADUs as a new amenity. (WSJ)

Did You Know?

Several US banks are doing very well: Goldman Sachs 2nd-quarter profit jumped 22% from a year earlier to $3.72 billion and revenue climbed 15% to $14.58 billion, roughly $1.1 billion more than the estimate. J.P. Morgan Chase's trading revenues were up 15% too. Market volatility makes many nauseous.... but it can be very profitable via buy-the-dip strategies! (CNBC)

Did You Know?

The Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust currently has an ownership interest in at least 274,859 rental housing units. Blackstone is the largest owner of student housing, an almost recession-proof classification....

These Shoes Were Made for Walking

For 24 years, Roger Federer had a deal with Nike. He wore their gear from age 13 winning 20 grand slams in the swoosh. He even had his own RF logo under the Nike brand. But in 2018 when his Nike contract expired the company let it lapse.

Better walked away with one of the most iconic sports deals in history. And made a very unexpected next move. He signed a 10 year deal with quote on “a small running shoe company based in Switzerland.

At the time “on“ wasn’t mainstream it made high performance shoes, mostly for distance runners. That didn’t join for the paycheck. He reportedly invested his own money and asked for equity. He didn’t just want to represent the brand. He wanted to help the brand.

Taking Care of Business

How many Franchises does Shaquille O'Neal own….. take a listen.

Watch Video

Funny Video, Here Are the Facts Via ChatGPT

As of 2025, Shaquille O’Neal has built an impressive franchise portfolio, owning and co-owning a variety of businesses across the food, fitness, and entertainment industries. Here's a breakdown of his current and past franchise holdings.

Current Franchise Holdings

Big Chicken: Co-founded by Shaq in 2018, this fast-casual restaurant chain specializes in Louisiana-style fried chicken sandwiches. It has expanded to 18 locations across the U.S., including spots in sports arenas and on Carnival cruise ships.

Papa John’s: Shaq owns nine Papa John’s franchises in the Atlanta area. He joined the company's board of directors in 2019 and played a significant role in revitalizing the brand, including promoting the "Shaq-a-Roni" pizza.

Auntie Anne’s: He owns 17 Auntie Anne’s pretzel franchises, primarily located in malls and airports.

Krispy Kreme: Shaq owns at least one Krispy Kreme location in Atlanta.

Former Franchise Investments

Five Guys: At one point, Shaq owned 155 Five Guys Burgers and Fries franchises, which accounted for approximately 10% of the company's total franchises. He has since sold his stake in the company.

24-Hour Fitness: He previously owned 40 24-Hour Fitness gyms.

Other Business Ventures

Beyond traditional franchises, Shaq's business interests include:

Car Washes: Ownership of 150 car washes.

Movie Theater: Ownership of a movie theater in Newark.

Shaquille O’Neal's diverse investments reflect his strategic approach to business, leveraging his personal brand to build a substantial and varied portfolio.

Inheriting "The Good Life"

Jaime Diamond wants to change the narative of Gen Z's

Watch Video

Rivalry Rally

One of the best points at Wimbledon!

Watch Video

Thinking of Selling?

3 Buyer Needs

Looking for a property in the lower new hill or lower old hill with limited steps into the main level living or an elevator….. under $10M. Buyer ready to go! Call for details.
Looking for a remodel (not HUGE remodel) on either hill will a view under $8M
Large street to street ‘fixer’ property, looking for off market and there is no price constraint.

Off Market Opportunity

I have an off market listing in Temple Hills…… super special property with plans to expand the property….. call me for details.

For Sale | Price Improvement

64 Emerald Bay

4 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 3,588 SqFt

$13,500,000

Nestled at the south end of Emerald Bay’s private beach, 64 Emerald Bay presents a rare opportunity to own in one of Laguna Beach’s most coveted locations. Just a stone’s throw from the sand, this 3,588-square-foot home offers dramatic whitewater views and a stunning coastal backdrop, all while maintaining a sense of privacy.

Featuring 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and a traditional layout ideal for comfortable living and entertaining, the home is rich in character brimming with potential to personalize or transform into a custom retreat. One of its most enchanting features? The constant, soothing sound of the ocean—a peaceful soundtrack to daily life, day and night.

Schedule Your Private Tour

For Sale

523 Emerald Bay

5 Bed | 5 Bath | 4,092 SqFt

$14,000,000

Welcome to 523 Emerald Bay—where coastal luxury meets panoramic perfection. Perched to capture uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, and glowing sunsets that light up the sky all year round, this more than 4000 SF, 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath home offers a front-row seat to Southern California’s most breathtaking coastal scenery.

Inside, discover a stunning blend of contemporary elegance and refined coastal sophistication, all overlooking one of California’s most coveted beaches. The light-filled great room flows seamlessly onto expansive decks—perfect for entertaining or simply soaking in the view. A chef-worthy kitchen, spa-inspired baths, and generously sized bedrooms make everyday living feel like a retreat.

Schedule Your Private Tour