Canyon to Coast

Luxe Magazine

NEWPORT BEACH, CA - The selection of luxury housing in coastal Orange County has the perfect advocate in Jacqueline Thompson, whose firm provides an incomparable level of customer service.

Leave it to coastal Orange County to produce a cross-section of residential glamour so varied that homeowners can experience everything from seaside splendor to a taste of Europe, often within neighboring ZIP codes.

From the dramatic hilltop estates and Tuscan-flavored topography of Shady Canyon near Laguna Beach to the exclusive properties overlooking the Pacific Ocean at Crystal Cove to the world-renowned Resort and Golf Club at Pelican Hill, this incomparable stretch of Southern California offers something for virtually every discerning palate. But the same variety that proves so compelling also can be overwhelming for those trying to sift through the area’s high-end residential options.

Since launching her namesake group at Surterre Properties in 2008, no real-estate professional has demonstrated a greater understanding of those nuances than Jacqueline Thompson. Her intimate knowledge of the market, not to mention her 24/7-availability for clients, has led to more than $500 million in sales—including record years during some of the market’s most challenging periods. “I’ve always been one to see the glass half full,” says the graduate of USC. “For me, those challenging years were an opportunity to give the one person that came through my open house the best quality service. I created exposure any way I could for my listings. Many of those clients became repeat clients and still remain close friends.” That same work ethic is at the heart of the Jacqueline Thompson Group, whether handling difficult negotiations for sellers or sifting through the myriad of possibilities for buyers based on their needs and desires.

MARKET TRENDS

An influx of foreign interest in coastal Orange County continues to change the landscape in luxury communities amid Newport Coast, Laguna Beach and other areas. Thompson has seen the commission of over-the-top homes and equally over-the-top sales driving the market, with many local buyers paying cash for quick closes. Within the marketplace, Shady Canyon has established itself as an address of choice among the county’s captains of industry and professional athletes, with homes commanding prices commensurate to properties with ocean views. One of the hot trends, aesthetically, is the transitional look that combines the elements of a functionally modern home with Old World characteristics that create a casual elegance. “Within the luxury markets I specialize in, immaculate, well-groomed hardscape areas also can add considerable value to the property,” Thompson says. “We are fortunate to live in this little corner of the world with exceptional weather, so outdoor living is ever present.”

THE ADVANTAGEOUS CHOICE

As part of her firm’s exceptional customer service, Thompson and her team work tirelessly to equip their clients with as much knowledge of the market as possible, the better for them to make informed decisions. That willingness to go the extra mile has distinguished the Thompson Group from the beginning. “I’ve been called to help sellers in out-of-area communities where sales have staled. In these cases, I’ve met with the seller, researched the community, and together with our unparalleled marketing, got the home sold at the highest price,” she says. “For buyers, choosing an experienced agent with tough negotiation skills is very important. Equally important is that the agent always has time for you.”