At that price point, you can find some really nice newer (not brand new) homes in Irvine in any hood you want.
Take a look at a Tapestry Plan 3 in Quail Hill... or if you get lucky... a Chantilly model.
There are tons of large homes (ie 3CWG) in Westpark II, Northwood Pointe and any of the late 90s early 00s tracts.
And I think you can probably find nice Los Colinas plans in resale so you get new but don't have to worry about landscaping.
Since the money equation is a bit easier for you... I suggest taking your time... it's not like prices are skyrocketing.