Introduction to the Enclave: From the Newport Coast highlands raises an enclave inspired by Tuscany, Provence and Barcelona that embodies the California Riviera lifestyle. Welcome to Pacific Ridge. Completed in 2005, it is one of the final residential destinations to be developed along Newport’s coast. This community offers numerous luxury amenities including the elegant Clubhouse at Pacific Ridge. This beautiful facility offers a Jr. Olympic salt water pool, Jacuzzi, play pool, and multiple lounge areas enhanced by barbecue centers, dining areas and a large outdoor fireplace: all highlighted by panoramic Catalina Island and canyon views. Greenbelts, tot lots and walkways are abundant throughout this idyllic community. Pacific Ridge borders thousands of acres of preserved back country that is ideal for walking, hiking, biking and exploring, with numerous trails leading to Crystal Cove State Park/Beach and beyond.
Bordered By: The entire community seems to be surrounded by views of the cities below, mountains, the ocean and California State protected land, as well as a newly completed sports park at the eastern entrance to the community.
Views: The northeast gets city lights views at night and sunrise views over the Saddleback Mountain range in the mornings. Southwestern views are panoramic beginning with state-protected canyons, as well as walking, biking and hiking trails that lead into views of North Laguna, Top of the World city lights, and leading into Pacific Ocean views. San Clemente and Catalina Islands can also be seen.
Homes: Completed in 2004-2005, residential architecture is Tuscan-style. The original planners were sent to Italy to study how the homes were built into the hillsides to become almost organically infused with the land. There are four communities: Costa Azul being the flagship development followed closely by the Cypress collection which arguably shares the best views with Pienza, as well as Belcara, which is built modeling an Italian Piazza-style design with homes surrounding a central motor court. Belcara received the Golden Nugget Award for the entire state of California when it was developed. Between the four communities, homes range from 2,500-5,000+ sq. ft. There are approximately 290 homes in the entire community.
How the Community Has Evolved: While it was built in or near the height of the market, many investors had originally purchased, however they have since sold and now long-term residents live in the community.
Community Features/Amenities/Special Events:
The Clubhouse at Pacific Ridge is located at the heart of the community which hosts holiday gatherings and parades year round. There are also numerous parks and tot lots, paseos and hiking trail access throughout the community.
Current Market Activity: Homes sales are very stable in the neighborhood; there’s still a very high demand. Residences never really sold originally based on price per square foot, as each home carries its own premium based on lot size, floor plan, location, view, etc. However, homes on an average are selling in the mid- $500 per sq. ft. on up to mid-$700 per sq. ft. One of the best values in the community is a 3 bedroom, 2,700 sq. ft. Belcara home that has been completely upgraded with custom kitchen cabinetry and appliances, flooring, media, added wine room, private spa and an oversized master suite with added fireplace. Currently listed at $1,299,000, it is located at 3 Tranquil and listed by Jason C. Bradshaw with First Team Estates. Bradshaw also has a Costa Azul plan 1 with 3,800 sq. ft., which is a single level, 4 bedroom with canyon views that is currently in escrow in the $2,500,000 range. In 2010, Bradshaw was responsible for at least 1 out of every 3 transactions in the neighborhood. His focus is Newport Coast, with an additional niche in the Pacific Ridge community.
Information provided by Jason C. Bradshaw, agent with First Team Estates. Contact him at 949.433.3001, or by email at JasonSOLDit@aol.com. www.JasonCBradshaw.com; www.PacificRidge92657.com
