dr surfdog_IHB
New member
Hi, I'm an out-of-state OC native moving back this summer. We're considering buying in Irvine due to proximity to decent schools, new job, beaches, and uh, my mom who lives in Woodbridge. As an IHB newbie, I'm interested in some expert opinions on the following questions/observations:
1. Is $400-550K a reasonable price point for a 3-4 bedroom (condo or detached, at least 1400 sq ft) that's not within 1000 ft of a freeway, train track, or former military waste site? I've been lurking on Redfin and scanning MLS listings and it seems the quality is inconsistent for comparably priced homes (typical in a volatile market).
2. Are auctions or REOs worth considering in Irvine? If so, can someone recommend a listing source? I tried RealtyTrac and the interface is terribly clunky.
3. I've heard homes are getting snatched up by foreign buyers; is this true? Could be a temporary driver that's reducing downward pricing pressure?
4. Are there any trustworthy agents out there? I have a good friend I trust who is an agent but he focuses on Capo. I know agents specialize so I'm not sure he'd be the best fit. I've also bought, sold, then bought again without buy or sell side agents, so not sure of the value.
Any expert opinions would be much appreciated!
1. Is $400-550K a reasonable price point for a 3-4 bedroom (condo or detached, at least 1400 sq ft) that's not within 1000 ft of a freeway, train track, or former military waste site? I've been lurking on Redfin and scanning MLS listings and it seems the quality is inconsistent for comparably priced homes (typical in a volatile market).
2. Are auctions or REOs worth considering in Irvine? If so, can someone recommend a listing source? I tried RealtyTrac and the interface is terribly clunky.
3. I've heard homes are getting snatched up by foreign buyers; is this true? Could be a temporary driver that's reducing downward pricing pressure?
4. Are there any trustworthy agents out there? I have a good friend I trust who is an agent but he focuses on Capo. I know agents specialize so I'm not sure he'd be the best fit. I've also bought, sold, then bought again without buy or sell side agents, so not sure of the value.
Any expert opinions would be much appreciated!