1285 Cortez Avenue, Laguna Beach, California 92651, Laguna Beach, 92651 - 2 bed, 2 bath
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Laguna Beach, California 92651
Analysis of 1285 Cortez Avenue, Laguna Beach, California 92651 is currently available with a list price of $4,099,000. The property maintains a Excellent Condition Rating (95/100), indicating excellent structural integrity and modern finishes throughout. This turnkey property requires minimal updates and is ready for immediate occupancy. Located in a high-demand neighborhood within the Laguna Beach Unified School District, this asset is categorized as a low-risk, high-reward acquisition suitable for both Buy-and-Hold Investors and Owner-Occupants willing to undertake light renovation work.
Property is new construction or fully renovated.
Despite the 1960 build date, the property has undergone a high-end modern renovation within the last 5 years. The kitchen features contemporary white shaker cabinetry, stone countertops, and updated stainless steel appliances, while the bathrooms show modern tile work and fixtures. The interior is in mint, move-in condition.
The property has a large lot size, which is more than 4 times of its living area. lot size in square feet = 17197, living area = 1088.
Elementary School: El Morro Elementary School (9/10). Middle School: Thurston Middle School (9/10). High School: Laguna Beach High School (9/10).
The inclusion of three contiguous parcels totaling nearly 0.4 acres is an exceptional rarity in Laguna Beach, offering immense potential for a custom residential compound or architectural estate.
Lot size discrepancy between mls listing and other public or private record. mls listing lot size in square feet =17197, other record lot size in square feet = 5000.
Building in Laguna Beach involves rigorous zoning, environmental, and city requirements, necessitating significant time and investment for independent verification and approvals.
The list price of over $4M for a modest 1,088 sqft home built in 1960 reflects land value rather than the existing structure, requiring buyers to have substantial additional capital for redevelopment.
1285 Cortez Ave presents a rare opportunity to acquire three contiguous parcels in the sought-after Arch Beach Heights neighborhood of Laguna Beach, one of Southern California’s most desirable coastal hillside communities. The offering includes: • 1285 Cortez Ave (APN 644-432-01) • 829 Miramar St (APN 644-432-02) • 855 Miramar St (APN 644-432-03) Collectively originating from the historic Arch Beach Heights subdivision, the three parcels encompass approximately 0.39 acres of elevated hillside property offering privacy, canyon surroundings, and ocean-views. Buyers are advised to independently verify all development possibilities, lot status, zoning, access, and building requirements with the City of Laguna Beach and other appropriate professionals. The Cortez parcel currently features a charming single-story 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with sweeping canyon and ocean views, tranquil garden areas, a dwarf avocado tree, and fruit cocktail tree. Located on a quiet street with minimal through traffic and no streetlights, the setting offers a peaceful coastal atmosphere. The adjacent Miramar parcels are separate legal lots of record and may present future planning, design, or development opportunities for buyers seeking a custom residential compound, architectural estate, or long-term investment opportunity. Located within close proximity to scenic hiking trails, renowned beaches, acclaimed restaurants, galleries, and the vibrant village lifestyle of Laguna Beach, this assemblage offers a unique opportunity for buyers seeking a distinctive coastal property with future potential. Opportunities to acquire multiple contiguous parcels in Arch Beach Heights are exceptionally limited. Whether envisioned as a private retreat, custom architectural project, or long-term coastal investment, 1285 Cortez Ave offers a rare canvas in one of Laguna Beach’s most iconic hillside neighborhoods. Seller and listing broker make no guarantees regarding development potential, lot status, zoning, views, or future use. Buyers are advised to conduct their own independent investigations with the City of Laguna Beach and licensed professionals.
No exterior & parking available.
Grades K-5 • 1.3 mi
Grades K-5 • 3.6 mi
Grades 6-8 • 1.5 mi
No sensitive facilities data found.
| Feature | Subject | Average Home | Neighborhood Ranking (50 Listings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beds | 2.0 | 3.0 | 14% |
| Baths | 2.0 | 3.0 | 25% |
| Square foot | 1,088 | 2,130 | 5% |
| Lot Size | 17,197 | 6,125 | 93% |
| Price | $4.10M | $3.22M | 65% |
| Price per sq ft | $3.8K | $1.5K | 96% |
| Built year | 1960 | 1964 | 42% |
| HOA | $0 | $0 | 50% |
| Days on market | 19 | 166 | 3% |
May 26, 2026
$4,099,000
Initial Listing
Dec 14, 2009
$760,000
Public Record
Jun 4, 1999
$411,000
Public Record