Jill Witte Coastal Real Estate Newsletter | October 2026

by Jill Witte

Jill Witte Coastal Real Estate Newsletter | October 2026

Fall at the Coast Has Its Own Rhythm
There’s something special about fall here in coastal Orange County. We don’t get the dramatic change of seasons that other parts of the country do, but we do get something I think is just as nice—cooler mornings (finally!), beautiful sunsets, fewer crowds, and a little more time to slow down and enjoy where we live.


 
Jill Witte


FOR SALE

$4,125,000

1136 Catalina, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

4 Beds | 3 Baths | 1.5K Sqft

Ideally situated in Laguna Village, this beautifully remodeled Mediterranean inspired, four-bedroom home combines an exceptional location with warmth, character and effortless coastal charm. Thoughtfully reimagined in 2022, every detail feels intentional, from the beautiful tilework and distinctive lighting to the carefully selected finishes that give the home its own inviting style. Natural light fills the interiors, while the spacious kitchen features high-end appliances, generous workspace and an adjoining dining area. The main living room is anchored by a fireplace and surrounded by windows, creating a bright and welcoming place to gather.

Learn More >>>



Dual Agency: Navigating Both Sides with Care

Representing both the buyer and seller in a real estate transaction comes with significant responsibility. In California, this arrangement—known as dual agency—is permitted with proper disclosure and both parties’ written consent. The challenge is managing competing interests while honoring the duties owed to each client. 

A seller wants to maximize their return, while a buyer wants the best possible value. Negotiations over price, repairs and timing can put those priorities at odds. An agent representing both sides must protect each client’s confidential information, including their financial circumstances, motivations and negotiating limits, unless that client expressly authorizes disclosure. 

Clear communication must go hand in hand with clear boundaries. My sale on Mount Nimbus in Fountain Valley, where I successfully represented both the buyer and seller, brought these responsibilities into focus. For me, a successful closing means more than getting a transaction across the finish line. It means approaching each client’s concerns with care and respecting their ability to make informed decisions. 

Dual agency requires thoughtful judgment, transparency and a strong commitment to both clients. It is not the right fit for every transaction, but my Mount Nimbus sale illustrates that representing both sides can lead to a successful outcome when those responsibilities remain the priority.

 



FOR LEASE

$6,495

368 Oak ST, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

2 Beds | 1 Bath | 1K Sqft

Available now! Furnished Laguna Beach Cottage Just Two Blocks from the Beach. Enjoy the best of Laguna Village from this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath furnished cottage, ideally located just two blocks from the beach and moments from favorite local restaurants, coffee shops, shopping and everything downtown Laguna has to offer.

Learn More >>>


FOR LEASE

$3,500

437 Cypress DR #A, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

1 Bed | 2 Baths | 600 Sqft

Welcome to 437 Cypress Unit A, ideally located in the heart of North Laguna Beach. This recently remodeled and spacious 1-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment offers a bright and comfortable living space with abundant natural light, new air conditioning unit in living room, porcelain tile flooring throughout, two generous closets, and a full kitchen.

Learn More >>>


FOR SALE

$164,000

30802 Coast #F9, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

2 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,100 Sqft

Live the Laguna Beach lifestyle overlooking the Pacific Ocean and The Montage an approachable price point. Located in Laguna Terrace, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath manufactured home offers a rare opportunity to create your own coastal retreat in Laguna Beach. The home is ready for a refresh and ideal for buyers looking to reimagine the space and add their own personal touch. 

Learn More >>>


SOLD

Represented Buyer

687-691 S Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Real estate opportunities in Laguna Beach go beyond residential.

I had the opportunity to represent the buyer in the purchase of this mixed-use commercial property on South Coast Highway. Located on the ocean side of PCH, the property includes street-level retail and residential space above, all just steps from the beach and downtown Laguna.

This purchase was also part of a 1031 exchange for my client, making it especially important to identify the right investment opportunity and navigate the transaction carefully.

I’d love to help more clients explore commercial and investment real estate. If you’re considering a 1031 exchange, looking for an investment property, or simply curious about opportunities in Laguna Beach and Orange County, I’m always happy to be a resource.

Learn More >>>


SOLD

Represented Buyer and Seller

$1,785,000

16182 Mt Nimbus, Fountain Valley, CA 92708

5 Beds | 4 Baths | 2.9K Sqft

Welcome to 16182 Mt. Nimbus, where timeless modern farmhouse design meets effortless California living. Situated on an expansive 7,744 square foot corner lot with a private pool in the heart of Fountain Valley, this beautifully reimagined home has been thoughtfully renovated from top to bottom, offering the perfect blend of style, comfort, and quality craftsmanship. The new finishes have been carefully selected, from the new LVP flooring and fresh interior and exterior paint to the beautifully reimagined kitchen featuring brand-new tile, fixtures, and appliances.

Learn More >>>


 

 

Hello, coastal lovers! Whether you’re looking for a dream beachfront home or planning to sell in this competitive market, knowing where the Orange County real estate market stands is essential.

Each of our stunning coastal communities, including Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, and San Juan Capistrano, has its own unique market trends. Let’s dive into what’s happening in October 2026 and what it means for buyers and sellers.

Learn More >>>



 

 

The latest real estate trends for Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, and San Juan Capistrano are in! Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, understanding the market is key to making confident decisions.

Check out the graphic above for a snapshot of how these four vibrant communities are performing.

Want a deeper dive into the numbers? Follow the link below to run your own custom report and see how the market aligns with your real estate goals!

Report Run Date: (SEP 06, 2026 - OCT 06, 2026)

 

3 Reasons Fall is Epic in Laguna Beach

 

Laguna Beach is the ideal year-round vacation destination.

Summer sun tends to keep Laguna Beach top of mind, however; the fall and winter months are actually our personal favorites! Cue mid-70-degree weather, secluded beaches, festivals, and more.


50th Annual Fall Faire & Pumpkin Patch at Environmental Nature Center
October 18

Join us on Sunday, October 18 from 10AM–3PM for the 50th Annual Fall Faire & Pumpkin Patch, our biggest community celebration—and largest fundraiser—of the year.


Halloween Spooktacular & Trunk or Treat
October 24

 

Join us for a spooktacular Halloween celebration at the Dana Point Community Center, located at 34052 Del Obispo Street! 

The City’s Recreation Division is partnering with Dana Point Police Services to bring families an afternoon full of festive fun. Enjoy a giant slide, inflatable sports zone, crafts, costume contest, live entertainment, and the Dana Point Police Services Trunk-or-Treat display. Guests can also brave our haunted maze and play arcade games, located inside the Community Center gymnasium.


Event Details >>>


 
Ghosts & Grooves with Laguna Dance
October 30
 

 

Learn dance moves from Thriller and The Rocky Horror Picture Show and enjoy live dance performances, snacks, drinks, and a SPOOK-tacular time. 

Please contact Laguna Dance at (949) 715-5578 for questions regarding tickets.


Did you know I host a weekly radio show right here in our coastal backyard? Every Tuesday at 8AM, I join the amazing Ed Steinfeld on Voice of Laguna for “Real Talk”—a live real estate segment where we dive into everything from market trends to neighborhood gems, and all the must-know updates for anyone living, buying, or selling in beautiful Laguna Beach and beyond.

 
It’s a true joy to share what I know with the community I love. Whether you're a longtime local or just dreaming of life by the coast, tune in for insider tips, candid conversations, and a fresh take on coastal living.
 
🎧 Listen live at voiceoflaguna.com or catch the replay, because real estate should be real, approachable, and fun!
 
Big thanks to Ed and the Voice of Laguna team for giving local voices a platform that keeps our community connected and informed. I’m honored to be part of it every week!
 
💥 And if you’re loving the soundtrack to Laguna’s legendary fireworks, you’ve got Ed to thank for that too—he curates the music for our 4th of July show and always delivers the perfect blend of heart and hometown pride.
 


Hi, I’m Jill Witte, a Coastal Real Estate Specialist based in beautiful Laguna Beach, California. With over 20 years of experience, I’m passionate about helping clients navigate every stage of their real estate journey—whether you're buying your dream home, selling for top value, or making a smart investment. I take pride in offering personalized service, honest advice, and expert market knowledge to ensure you feel confident in every decision. As someone who truly loves the coastal lifestyle, I’m committed to helping you find a home that fits not just your needs but your lifestyle. Let’s work together to make your real estate goals a reality!

GET MORE INFORMATION

Jill Witte

Jill Witte

Agent License ID: 01790889

+1(949) 439-4040

Name
Phone*
Message