What $20 Million Buys In Three Wealthy Southern California Pockets

Home to some of the wealthiest ZIP Codes in the United States, it’s no surprise that California cities regularly top the list when it comes to the country’s priciest housing markets. In this week’s look at some of the world’s finest luxury real estate, I examined what $20 million buys in three affluent pockets in the Golden State. From a designer-done Tuscan villa in Beverly Hills to a sumptuous equestrian estate in Summerland, here’s a closer look:

Beverly Hills, 90210

No California Zip Code carries quite the cachet as the 90210. Long associated with Los Angeles’ elite, Beverly Hills proper is coveted for its public services, world-class dining and shopping, and proximity to major business hubs on the Westside. Designer pedigree is a major selling point for many homes in the area, including this Tuscan-inspired home designed by Luis Ortega and Jose Fernadez. 

Features: A modern interpretation of an Italian villa, the residence incorporates limestone, brick and pre-oxidized CorTen steel into its eye-catching design. Old French-style doors and beautiful Terracotta floors continue the romantic vibe inside the house, which holds a chef’s kitchen, large formal rooms and an owner’s wing complete with an office/library. A floating Venetian plaster ceiling tops the wood-paneled billiard room.

Other perks: Lofted space containing a gym, art studio and observation deck lie on the upper level. Outside, grounds featuring Knibb Design landscaping hold groves of olive trees, a veranda, a swimming pool and an open-air pool house. 

Price: $19.5 million

Represented by: Linda May, Hilton & Hyland

---

Malibu, 90265

Long a summer playground for business titans and Hollywood stars, Malibu’s housing market exploded with interest over the last year as well-heeled homebuyers angled for the best stay-at-home properties to ride out the coronavirus pandemic. For those seeking ample space, this ocean-view compound has it in spades. This 7-acre property centers on an under-construction mansion with active plans and permits — meaning the buyer can customize the 11,000-square-foot mansion to their tastes.

Features: Private and gated from the street, the mansion is approached by a long driveway that ends at a circular motor court. Mature trees surround the property, creating a natural privacy screen, while an expanse of lawn and a swimming pool fill the grounds.

Other perks: For those seeking an even larger buffer from the outside world, additional parcels surrounding the estate are also for sale. This presents a unique opportunity to create expand the property to more than 17 acres.

Price: $19.9 million

Represented by: Eric Hassan, Hilton & Hyland

---

Summerland, 93067

Summerland may not get the same attention as its northern neighbors, Montecito and Santa Barbara, but the coastal beach town of about 2,000 residents does have its fair share of real estate options, particularly when it comes to luxury homes. Called Tuscany Oaks Farm, this world-class estate is a perfect example. Set on 18 blufftop acres, this Summerland estate pairs commanding ocean views with a spectacular mansion designed by noted architect Don Nulty.

Features: Past a front galleria, the graceful mansion features scaled living spaces lined arched doors, a chef’s kitchen and five en-suite bedrooms. An 18-stall barn or auto gallery with an office, a two-bedroom apartment and acres of pasture accompany the main house.

Other perks: An outdoor entertainment compound creates additional living space in the form of a resort-style swimming pool, loggia pavilion and a cabana with a kitchen and fitness center.

Price: $19.8 million

Represented by: Riskin Partners, Village Properties

---

Hilton & Hyland and Village Properties are exclusive members of Forbes Global Properties, a consumer marketplace and membership network of elite brokerages selling the world’s most luxurious homes.