Buying a luxury home in Los Angeles is always an exciting experience, whether it’s your first time, your second, or even your fifth. It’s exhilarating to explore luxury homes for sale and even more thrilling when it’s time to finalize the sale and move into your new home.
In this home buying page, we answer the most asked questions about buying homes for sale in Los Angeles. If we missed a query or you would like to learn more, get in touch with Florence at 310.927.2777 or estates(at)FlorenceMattar(dotted)com.
How much are homes in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles real estate is one of the most sought after in the country. On average, real estate prices are higher than other cities of similar size. That said, it all depends on where you would like to buy a home. Location plays an important role in home prices, with the most desirable neighborhoods having the highest price tags.
The housing inventory also affects home prices, especially in luxury markets. It’s not uncommon for some sellers in communities such as Bel Air and Brentwood to be reluctant to sell. The low supply of homes paired with the high demand further boost property values.
What kind of homes can I find in Los Angeles?
A wide variety. Los Angeles is known for having an eclectic collection of residential real estate in terms of size, type, and architectural style.
Property types
Two of the most common property types in Los Angeles are single-family homes and condos. The former can be found just about anywhere, while condos are most often found in high-density neighborhoods where space is scarce and comes at a premium.
Small-home lots, townhomes, apartments, and multi-family residences also abound in Los Angeles. At the uppermost bracket are the million-dollar properties, which can come in the form of a sprawling villa in the hills or a luxury penthouse.
Architectural styles
One of the reasons why luxury homes in Los Angeles are highly coveted is the architectural diversity evident in the market.
Majority of the homes in Los Angeles are on the contemporary spectrum. The city became a playground for architects interested in clean lines, indoor-outdoor living, and modern design elements. This paved the way for the creation of Los Angeles’ fine collection of mid-century modern, post-modern, Art Deco, and California Modern homes.
A sizable chunk of luxury homes for sale in Los Angeles also pay homage to classic design sensibilities. Tudor, Colonial Revival, rambler (also known as ranch), European, Palladian, Italianate, and Spanish Revival, among other styles, are as ubiquitous in the city as their more modern counterparts.
The best thing about architectural styles in Los Angeles is that they are not exclusive in one neighborhood. Bel Air, for instance, is notable for being one of the most architecturally diverse places in the city. It’s easy to find streets where a Mediterranean-inspired single-family homes stands next to a modernist property.
Where can I find luxury homes for sale in Los Angeles?
Luxury properties are present in many places in Los Angeles, but the best are found in the following locations:
- The Platinum Triangle, which is composed of Beverly Hills , Holmby Hills, and Bel Air.
- Beverlywood and Brentwood, two affluent communities in the Westside and located close to the Platinum Triangle.
- Pacific Palisades and Malibu in northwest Los Angeles, known for their waterfront luxury properties.
- Marina del Rey, which holds the distinction of being the biggest small-boat marina in the country.
- Venice, located right next to Marina del Rey.
- Westwood, where the University of California, Los Angeles is located.
Luxury homes in these neighborhoods range from condos and lofts to beachfront properties and expansive estates in the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains.
Do I need to work with a real estate agent?
Yes. Although resources about Los Angeles real estate are available online, nothing beats the expertise of an experienced Los Angeles real estate agent, especially one who specializes in Los Angeles luxury real estate.
Working with a real estate agent is highly recommended if it is your first time to purchase a luxury home in Los Angeles.
Look for a real estate agent who:
- Has considerable experience in the market;
- Specializes in the areas you’re interested in;
- Matches your style of communication;
- Has been active in the market for the past three to six months.
Ask trusted friends and family if they have any referrals. You can also start your search for a real estate agent online, but don’t hire the first one you see. Collect a couple of names and invite them for an interview to find the best fit.