Several remarkable new property listings have hit the market, offering a diverse range of luxury real estate options across California's most desirable neighborhoods. The standout properties showcase everything from mid-century modern architecture to English countryside charm, along with unique specialty homes and investment opportunities.
The crown jewel among the new listings is 526 Crocker Sperry Drive in Birnam Wood, priced at $9.85 million. This property boasts what may be the most spectacular entrance in the entire Birnam Wood area, featuring a gazebo-style doorway that opens into a stunning courtyard pool area. The pool itself is designed as a trapezoid with two elegantly curved sides and is beautifully framed by palm trees. The main house, constructed in 1981, captures the essence of a decade earlier when mid-century architecture began to embrace a more playful and relaxed aesthetic. While the interior spaces are less distinctive than the exterior, they remain solid and well-designed. The wood-paneled primary bathroom serves as an excellent example of how the property could be updated with both style and sophistication, though some might prefer adding touches of preppy Palm Beach flair. The landscaping design serves as an ideal model for homeowners seeking low-maintenance outdoor spaces.
Just a short walk away but representing a completely different architectural style is 510 McLean Lane, listed at $9.25 million. This 1988 home transports visitors straight to the English countryside with its authentic design and meticulously crafted gardens that perfectly complement the architectural theme. Despite sitting on just 0.89 acres, the lot feels significantly larger due to thoughtful landscaping and design. The interior spaces maintain the English country theme throughout, though some areas, particularly the kitchen, might inspire buyers to consider updates and refreshes. However, the dining room should remain untouched as it represents perfection in design. The house layout resembles a one-bedroom configuration, featuring a massive primary suite equipped with two full bathrooms, one of which appears to include an office space and an impressive four-person bathtub. Additional amenities include an enormous walk-in closet and an attractive study that could potentially be converted into a guest bedroom if needed. However, conversion may be unnecessary given the charming guest house located on the opposite side of the garden. The property also features two wet bars for entertaining.
For those seeking a more expansive estate, 6903 Foxen Canyon Road offers 400 acres north of Los Olivos for $16 million. According to the property listing, the impressive 8,000-square-foot main residence was commissioned by renowned actor James Garner during the 1990s. The home makes a bold architectural statement with three distinctive pyramid-roofed pavilions and a pair of imposing chimneys that create a unique silhouette reminiscent of a French bulldog constructed from Lego blocks. The interior design varies significantly throughout the home, with the lime green room providing a particularly surprising element. Beyond the main residence, the property includes 25 acres of established vineyards, a clay shooting range, a well-stocked pond complete with an artfully illuminated picnic area designed for evening gatherings, comprehensive equestrian facilities, a regulation croquet and badminton lawn, and miles of hiking and horseback riding trails.
In a more accessible price range, 715 Circle Drive presents a four-bedroom, three-bathroom home built in 2010 and priced at $3.75 million. This property is expected to sell quickly due to its beautiful renovation that feels contemporary without being overly trendy. While the backyard space is somewhat limited, which could be a consideration for families specifically seeking the Cold Spring School District, the property does offer substantial privacy buffers.
Located in Carpinteria, 4756 5th Street is listed at $3.195 million and initially appears similar to other recent listings but actually represents a completely unique luxury wellness retreat. The home has been meticulously designed specifically for clean living, wellness-focused peace of mind, and timeless California elegance. The property has been thoughtfully shielded from electromagnetic fields by expert Oram Miller, offering rare tranquility in today's highly connected world. The interior features air and water purifying systems throughout, elevated finishes, and construction using low volatile organic compound and formaldehyde-free materials. Despite the impressive wellness features, questions remain about practical design choices, such as the large accordion doors in the primary bedroom that, while visually striking, raise questions about their practical usage for sleeping or privacy.
For buyers interested in a renovation project, 1712 Lasuen Road offers a 1948 home spanning just 1,938 square feet for $2.7 million. The property currently shows signs of wear, particularly visible in the living room ceiling and bathroom walls. However, the concept of a jewel box property on the Riviera holds considerable appeal, and the lot includes a studio apartment positioned alongside the garage, adding potential value and flexibility.
An unusual investment opportunity presents itself at 1030-1032 E. Mason Street, located at the corner of Voluntario Street and priced at $4.3 million. This unique compound includes a church building with an attached one-bedroom apartment, a separate three-bedroom home, and a six-unit apartment building currently operating as senior housing, creating a built-in congregation of residents. While the church building is likely zoned for commercial use, converting it to residential use would add an intriguing element to the property.
Additional properties worth consideration include 637 E. Micheltorena Street, offering 3,080 square feet of Mediterranean-style living on a 4,112-square-foot lot for $2.9 million. At 704 Island View Drive, buyers will find an Alta Mesa three-bedroom home priced at $2.95 million that requires updating but compensates with ocean views. Finally, 1227 Olive Street presents a three-bedroom, one-bathroom bungalow with an expansive backyard for $1.495 million, representing an entry point into the luxury market.
