Buying luxury Malibu real estate is not just about size. Any builder can build big, but what makes the difference between a big home and a luxury home in this area is the architectural design, the use of Malibu’s natural surroundings, and attention to details.

Also important is seeking the right real estate agent to help you find the right luxury home.

Here are some things you should consider when you purchase Malibu luxury real estate.

Choose an Architectural Masterpiece

A luxury home should be a work of art – an expression of the architectural artist and a statement of your individuality.

It should also be of a design that is beautiful and practical, but one that will stand the test of time. One way to ensure that a home has the qualities of a masterpiece is to choose a luxury home that has been built by a renowned and respected architect.

Who are the leaders in luxury Malibu architecture?

If you are looking for a contemporary layout, then consider homes designed by architect Ron Goldman or Charles Gwathmey. If you are seeking a luxury home of Italian design, consider the architectural masterpieces that have been created by Angelo De Sapio.

Malibu architect Steve Yett has created a renowned vision that has facilitated his mastery of organic architecture. Malibu estate homes designed by Clive Dawson are coveted by many as are designs by Douglas Burdge, Richard Meier and Christopher R. Sorensen.

Sync with Nature

One of the reasons many choose to live in Malibu is that you are minutes away from the city, but your home is in the middle of nature. Malibu is surrounded by the soaring Santa Monica Mountains on one side, and bordered by the sparkling Pacific Ocean on the other.

To maximize your purchase of luxury Malibu real estate, consider the design of a home as far as how much natural light is available, and what types of views it offers.

Are the windows extra large? Does the home have sliding glass or light-blocking walls?

Are the views unobstructed?  Who has the rights to the trees? Would their removal drastically alter your view? Is there a potential the view could be blocked by new construction or expansion?

Indoor-Outdoor Living

One of the best ways to let nature in is to have a luxury estate with indoor-outdoor living in mind. Walls and large glass windows that open up allow easy access to outdoor spaces from the living room, dining and even bedrooms.

It’s a newer trend in Malibu and other areas with climates that allow nearly year-round outdoor life to blend with your indoor living spaces.

Soaring Ceilings

One universal feature that defines luxury Malibu real estate are high ceilings. These lofty heights not only increase the play of natural light, but it allows you to measure a home in cubic footage rather than square footage. The more air space you own, the more open and free you will feel.

Separate Social and Private Areas

Being able to entertain a large amount of guests in style is a highly sought after luxury Malibu real estate feature.

Be sure that areas designated for guests and entertaining are separated from your personal space. Look for a luxury home design that places the master suite, and bedrooms away from social areas.

Selecting the Right Agent

Many luxury Malibu homes for sale are not publicly listed in order to protect a seller’s privacy or to restrict a casual “window shopper’s” curiosity.

This means that your choice of whom you select as your Malibu real estate agent makes a big difference when looking to purchase luxury Malibu real estate. Look for someone who has been in the business full-time for a minimum of five years.

Also, make sure the agent has experience in luxury Malibu real estate transactions. The majority of their listings should be within the market area that you are looking to purchase a home.

Once you have a spot-on agent who knows what features and amenities you are looking for, they will then be able to look through their “pocket listings” to see if some of these quiet sales would suit your taste. Their years of experience will have also created a strong network of contacts who may also have private listings.

In Summary

While the above are suggestions by the team at Russell Grether and Associates in what to consider when buying a luxury estate, the home you purchase will ultimately depend on your needs and tastes. However, one consideration that is important to not overlook, is what agent you choose to work with. In addition to doing your research online, ask for personal referrals.

For information on pocket listings in Malibu, contact Russell Grether at 310-994-4247.