Who likes labels? Here's another

Let's face it: One of the interesting parts about living in Southern California is the fact that there is some incredible wealth out there on display.

By incredible, we're talking multi millions. Probably even billions in some rare cases. In order to celebrate the fact that some of the most ridiculous estates are situated right here in the southland, here's a new label: the "Freakin' Sweet" award.


No tales of flipping gone awry here or bank-busting catastrophes. Just a fun tour of some of the most amazing pieces of real estate in the area. These places all are on the market for in upwards of $3 million and have some incredible features, architectural designs and layouts. Onward...

346 W PASEO DE CRISTOBAL
San Clemente, Calif., 92672
Asking price: $4.79 million
Last sale: $3.75 million (6/15/05)
5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms
4,800 square feet
MLS: S474222
Redfin description: Spectacular water front estate on 1/4 acre street to street cul-de-sac lot at 'T-Street' beach. Custom built luxury home with awe inspiring panoramic ocean, white water, island & pier views! Leaded glass entry doors, beautiful distressed Hickory wood flooring, picture windows, 3 fireplaces, hand painted kitchen tiles, elevator (!), glass balcony panels. Private ocean view pool & spa has cabana w/ bath. Stunning yard w/ center fountain. 2 two car garages. Close to pier & downtown. Beach trail now open!
I've taken the train down from Orange County to San Diego a number of times, and on each trip I find myself in awe of some of the amazing homes that are right next to the ocean in San Clemente. This would be one of those.

The view out of this kitchen (picture on the right, obviously) simply does not get any better. Now if there was only a way to grow the hedges so that they cover up the parking lot but aren't tall enough to obstruct your view of the waves crashing. Well heck, then it would probably be a $5 million house.
Since this place is worth more than $2 million, it is absolutely necessary that it have a billiards room. Listing description for this photo: "Guest suite / Maids quarters has separate entrance, bath & kitchenette." I'd have gone with a billiards room instead, too.
Now this is the way to market your property. Could that sunset be any cooler? No. To the right is the family room. Notice the ocean view, again. Is there any room in this place that doesn't have a killer view? Maybe the fifth bathroom...but no guarantees.

Ready to move in? If you could somehow get this property by only dropping $1 million as a down payment, with a 6.5% interest rate loan, your mythical monthly payment would be $23,955 a month.