Your thoughts about laguna niguel :) (Newport Beach, San Clemente: real estate, rental, HOA)

[thomasfromdenmark]

Hi am european looking for a home in laguna, however I can not afford buying in Laguna Beach though it's my favorite place, so I figured I should try to look for somthing in Laguna Niguel.

I have been there a few times and my first impression is that it's low chrime, and good for families? Do you think it could it's a place to have a suitable holliday rental home ?

Also buying a condo, how are the HOA's there and what other fixed anual cost should I consider other than HOA's and propterytax?

And most important of all, how do you like it?

Thanks..

[NaplesRes]

It's like any other inland OC town. Basically middle class suburbia.

I'm not sure why anyone would want to rent a home there for a vacation though. I guess it's a relatively short drive to the beach but really most people would like to rent places in a beach town I think.

[missionhome]

Laguna Niguel isn't really a vacation sort of place unless you are in the mansions in expensive neighborhoods like Bear Brand, South Peak, or Ocean Ranch near the border with Dana Point and close to the Monarch Beach resort area. There are some condos in this area that are only about a mile from the beach in south Laguna Niguel so that area is pretty close to the beach also.

Still, it is mainly families and people looking for a quiet lifestyle that is ocean close. It is a nice city, but not really a vacation resort type town like Laguna Beach, Dana Point, or Newport Beach.

[northland kiwi]

Hi,we stayed in Laguna Niguel in august fantastic place can't wait to go back,it's alot different to NZ but i loved it thanks every one for making it a great stay.

[AddieJane]

If I were looking for a vacation home and couldn't afford Laguna Beach, then I'd go to San Clemente. You could probably afford a little condo within walking distance to the town or beach.

Good luck!

[danapoint52]

I lived in Laguna Niguel for eleven years. I m also from overseas. Its definately safe and close to the beach but very suburban. If you want something with a more interesting vibe and more of a cross section of society, San Clemente would be great. Its got a community feel, cafes, friendly and you d still be close to Laguna Beach. Only 20 minutes or so down PCH. Talk to a real estate company in the area or email them. They ll be able to answer most of your questions. HOA can be from $80 to $500 a month. Depends on area and building types.

[northland kiwi]

Hi, we went to San clemente also a very nice place ,bought my surf board from there spent the day looking arond .u are right the cafes and beachs were great all in all the whole trip was great and i dont have any thing bad to say about the whole of southern cal, you should all come to NZ one day you would love it here as well,cheers.