9 reasons why investing in Pacific Palisades real estate is worth it

SOLD BY JAMES RESPONDEK in PACIFIC PALISADES: 7 beds, 6 baths, 6,273 square feet. Browse similar homes in Pacific Palisades. Or inquire here.

Living in California often means living close to the beach or to the mountains. If you’re lucky, you’ll live close to both. The unique location of Pacific Palisades means you’re never far from the mountains, the seas, or even the city. The secluded hilltop neighborhood is perfect for enjoying the best of what LA has to offer.

If you’re thinking of investing in Los Angeles luxury real estate, Pacific Palisades should be at the top of your list. The neighborhood offers a tranquil way of life, high appreciation rates for luxury homes, and a tight-knit community with high net worth individuals.

Let’s delve deeper into why Pacific Palisades is an excellent place to buy a home.

PACIFIC PALISADES: LOS ANGELES’ BESPOKE COASTAL COMMUNITY

Pacific Palisades is a neighborhood in Los Angeles, CA spanning approximately 24 square miles. Its northern and eastern sections are nestled on the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, which form a significant part of the neighborhood’s border along with Temescal Canyon.

Santa Monica Bay covers the southwest boundary, providing residents easy access to the coast. To the west is Malibu, while to the east lies Brentwood. Santa Monica flanks the southeast portion.

The neighborhood is about 20 miles from Downtown Los Angeles and has a population of 22,977. The area has a remarkably low population density, making it a desirable address for homeowners and Hollywood A-listers seeking privacy and space.

9 REASONS TO INVEST IN PACIFIC PALISADES REAL ESTATE

From its unique geographic location to the abundance of high-end homes, Pacific Palisades is a desirable location that caters to some of the city’s most well-heeled buyers. Let’s take a closer look at the reasons why you should consider investing in Pacific Palisades luxury real estate.

1. Stunning location and unparalleled views. Pacific Palisades’ one-of-a-kind location lends itself to incredible views of LA’s Westside region, with many homes perched on high bluffs overlooking the canyons. Coupled with the neighborhood’s lineup of ultra-modern luxury homes, living in Pacific Palisades often feels like you’re in a different world altogether. The homes here are often designed with floor-to-ceiling windows to take full advantage of the stunning views.
2. Laid-back lifestyle. Although Pacific Palisades has plenty of upscale attractions and a vibrant commercial corridor to its name, the neighborhood is still largely residential. It’s known to have a laid-back atmosphere, more so than many other parts of LA. This is largely thanks to the surrounding mountains and beaches, which provide a natural buffer from the hustle and bustle of the city.

   And while it’s a highly coveted neighborhood, it rarely sees tourist activity. This allows residents to enjoy a tight-knit, serene community that’s close enough to the city center without any of the congestion and traffic.

3. Fabulous selection of homes

   When it comes to luxury real estate, Pacific Palisades rivals the likes of Bel Air and Beverly Hills. Homes in the area sell for millions of dollars and are often snapped up by A-listers and business tycoons.

   Home sizes range from 4,000 to 16,000 square feet. Prices typically start at around $850,000 for a one-bed, one-bath condo unit and go up to over $40 million for an 8-bed mansion with a 1.8-acre lot.

   Luxury homes offer a variety of features that allow residents to unwind, including entertainment areas with wet bars and fireplaces, spacious family rooms, massage rooms, and spa-like bathrooms. You’ll also find houses with built-in gyms and fitness spaces, as well as sprawling outdoor areas that encourage al fresco dining. Swimming pools with bars, lanais, and resort-like patios are just a few of the features that add to the coastal atmosphere.

   For homeowners who love to entertain, chef and gourmet kitchens are common in many luxury homes. You can also expect formal dining rooms, roof decks with gorgeous views, picturesque gardens, and guest suites to make your visitors feel at home.

   Choose from a curated selection of homes for sale in Pacific Palisades now

4. Homes with a history. In addition to their luxurious amenities and high-end features, many homes also have a rich history, often crafted by famous architects and carrying signature features that signify Los Angeles’ golden age.

   For example, the Eames House, designed by Ray and Charles Eames, is a Mid-Century Modern masterpiece that is now a National Historic Landmark. Steven Spielberg’s main residence on Amalfi Drive was previously owned by Hollywood icon Cary Grant and producer David O. Selznick.

5. Strong real estate market
   

   SOLD by JAMES RESPONDEK in PACIFIC PALISADES: 5-bed, 4-bath home in the highly coveted Village Bluffs neighborhood

   If you’re looking for an investment-worthy place to buy a home, Pacific Palisades is a great option. The median listing home price in the community has been increasing steadily in recent years, up 16.4% year-over-year in July 2023. This suggests that there is strong demand for homes in the area and that prices are likely to continue to rise, making real estate a good investment for buyers who are willing to wait for the right opportunity.

   The limited supply of homes in Pacific Palisades is a major factor driving up home prices. Only 400+ new units have been built in the last decade, which means that there are more buyers than there are homes for sale. This makes it a competitive market, and buyers may need to act quickly and make offers above the asking price to be successful.

6. Diverse, upscale neighborhoods. No matter your lifestyle preferences, Pacific Palisades has plenty of neighborhoods to choose from. Some areas, such as The Village, have a higher concentration of condos and apartments. Other neighborhoods like El Medio Bluffs and Castellammare are predominated by single-family homes and villas.

   Each community is beautifully maintained and has something different to offer, whether it’s top-notch schools, sprawling mansions, or incredible views of the ocean.

   Explore the neighborhoods of Pacific Palisades now

7. Proximity to outdoor recreation. Living in Pacific Palisades puts you close to stunning outdoor attractions and sprawling parks. These include:
   • Will Rogers State Historic Park. Will Rogers Park is one of the most popular outdoor attractions in Pacific Palisades and the Westside region of LA. Rogers was an esteemed performer and comedian who lived in the area.Home to numerous hiking trails, equestrian activities, and historic tours, this 186-acre state park offers countless recreational opportunities for all residents. Seasoned hikers can explore the Rivas Canyon Trail, Inspiration Point Loop Trail, and the 70-mile Backbone National Trail.

     For a more unique experience, the park also offers free outdoor movie screenings outside of Will Rogers’ home.

   • Will Rogers State Beach. For a day at the beach, Will Rogers State Beach is only a short distance from the city center. The beach is well known for its excellent water quality, making it the ideal place to go for a swim. Surfing is also possible here since there are moderate waves when the weather is right.If you want to lounge on the sands, the southeast portion connects with Santa Monica State Beach, forming a unique six-mile coast that follows the Santa Monica Bay. Additionally, visitors can play volleyball, have a picnic, or enjoy a hearty meal at one of the many restaurants along the coast.
   • Temescal Gateway Park. This gorgeous natural park boasts over 140 acres of sycamore and oak-shaded canyons, serene meadows, and expansive gardens. Residents can explore the abundant outdoor recreation options, which include hiking and running, or book its private event venues for a special occasion.The Ridge Trail Loop is perfect for those looking for a moderate hike, while the El Medio Trail offers a more relaxed pace. Guests can book the picturesque Woodland Terrace or the elegant Historic Stewart Hall for weddings, meetings, and other private events.
   • Rustic Canyon Park. This is a beautiful city park located in Santa Monica. It has a variety of amenities for people of all ages, including a picnic area, playground, sports courts, swimming pool, and an indoor gym.The Rustic Canyon Recreation Center is located within the park and offers even more activities, such as baseball, tennis, basketball, and swimming. The park is also home to a picturesque eucalyptus grove.
   • Palisades Park. From public art installations to unique tree species, the 26-acre Palisades Park in Santa Monica houses a variety of attractions. The park enjoys a prime location on a coastal rise along Ocean Avenue, providing magnificent views of both the mountains and the seas. Exhibited here are over 30 different species of plants and trees, including a variety of palms. You can also enjoy a stroll through the Palisades Park Rose Garden.
8. World-class shopping and dining scene. Palisades Village is the neighborhood’s main commercial center. The upscale retail hub hosts a curated selection of boutiques, designer brands, jewelry stores, and dining spots. Bottega Veneta, Brandy Melville, Diptyque, Brunello Cucinelli, Chanel Fragrance, and Byredo are just a few of the brands anchored by The Village. And if you’re looking to grab a bite, many top-rated restaurants are nearby, including Erewhon Market, Roca Pizza, and The Draycott.

   For more food and drink options, Sunset Boulevard runs through the neighborhood and offers a top-notch selection of restaurants, such as Modo Mio, Casa Nostra Trattoria on Sunset, and Rocco’s Cucina.

9. Top-notch schools. Pacific Palisades is home to many reputable schools, increasing the demand for real estate in the area. School-aged children can attend the following nearby public schools:
   • Palisades Elementary Charter School
   • Marquez Charter School
   • Palisades Charter High School
   • Canyon Charter Elementary School(Santa Monica)

   As for private schools, families have the following options:

   • Calvary Christian School
   • St. Matthew’s Parish School
   • Village School
   • Seven Arrows Elementary School
   • Westside Waldorf School

   Pacific Palisades is also a quick drive from some of the top colleges in the region and even in the country. The distinguished University of California – Los Angeles is only 5.9 miles from the neighborhood, while University of Santa Monica is a short 3.5-mile drive. Santa Monica College, Pepperdine University, and Los Angeles Trade Technical College are also great options offering excellent academic programs in diverse fields, including business, liberal arts, general science, and more.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PACIFIC PALISADES LUXURY REAL ESTATE

What are the neighborhoods in Pacific Palisades? How many?

Pacific Palisades is composed of 16 distinct neighborhoods, including:

Are there any restrictions on property development in Pacific Palisades?

There are a few restrictions on property development in Pacific Palisades with regards to their height, design, and floor area ratio (FAR). These include:

• New buildings should have a similar style, materials, and scale to the existing buildings in the neighborhood. This is to maintain the character of the area.
• Single-family homes should be built close together to take advantage of the natural terrain and preserve open space.
• The scenic value of natural landforms, such as mountains, hills, and coastlines, should be preserved, enhanced, and restored. This means that development should be designed to minimize its impact on the natural environment.
• The zoning code for Pacific Palisades specifies that the floor area of buildings in commercial zones is limited to one-half of the total floor area.

Are there commercial establishments in Pacific Palisades?

Yes, there are plenty of commercial establishments in Pacific Palisades. These include Palisades Village, an outdoor shopping center with over 100 retailers, and Sunset Boulevard, one of the busiest commercial strips in LA.

How far is Pacific Palisades from main commercial centers (like Santa Monica and
LA)?

Pacific Palisades isn’t too far from California’s major commercial centers. Santa Monica, one of the busiest resort towns in the state, is only 3 miles from Pacific Palisades and shares its southeastern border with the neighborhood.

Downtown Los Angeles is approximately 20 miles east of Pacific Palisades. The drive takes about 20 minutes via the I-10.

Do celebrities live in Pacific Palisades?

Pacific Palisades has long been a favorite neighborhood among Hollywood’s elite. Today, it attracts high-profile actors, producers, and entrepreneurs, including acclaimed filmmaker Steven Spielberg and Hollywood couple Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson.

Former celebrity residents include Brooke Shields, who sold her $7.4 million home in 2022, and Matt Damon and “Sugar” Ray Leonard, who listed their homes in 2021.

Do homes for sale in Pacific Palisades have an ocean view?

Many homes in Pacific Palisades offer stunning waterfront views. The neighborhood is located on the coast, and many homes are built on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. And although some homes are not located on the waterfront, they may also have resort-like amenities, such as swimming pools and outdoor spas.

EXPLORE PACIFIC PALISADES LUXURY REAL ESTATE WITH JAMES RESPONDEK

When it comes to luxury real estate in Pacific Palisades, there’s no one better than James Respondek and The Respondek Group. With over 35 years of experience and over $1 billion in sales, James has helped numerous clients find the perfect property in some of the most desirable communities in Los Angeles. Having assisted generations of Palisadians in finding their dream home, James provides personalized service for every client, every step of the way.

Ready to invest in Pacific Palisades? Get in touch with James and the Respondek Group at 310.488.4400 or by sending a message.