California Property International buyers guide

1 Californian Estates, Inc./ 11812 San Vicente Boulevard / Los Angeles / 90049 / California / +1-323 3034491 / [email protected] / www.californianestates.com

Real Estate truly is a "global marketplace," particularly in the U.S. where 7% of its $1.2 trillion Existing Homes Sales market was attributed to international buyers for the period of March 2013 to March 2014 according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

During that same period, NAR stated that international buyers purchased more than $92.2 billion in U.S. residential real estate. In fact, these foreign investment dollars represents a 35% increase from $68.2 billion during the 2012-2013 period.

Commercial transactions bought by international investors also represent a thriving and growing market worth billions of dollars. NAR reported that In 2012, $24.1 billion dollars flowed into the U.S commercial real estate market. Most remarkable is the growth of this market, which increased 5% from 2011 and 55% from 2010.

Viewing the country as a safe place to put their money, international home buyers preferred purchasing properties in the United States over other countries. A California Association of REALTORS® (CAR) study revealed that 85% of international buyers said they only considered purchasing a home in the U.S., citing that the stable government and financial system instills confidence in their home investment.

Global real estate investment is at an all-time high. Across all market measurements, the California market is consistently one of the most attractive and high performing. In the 2014 NAR report, $11.6 billion were spent by international buyers to purchase Californian real estate, with $4 billion in Los Angeles alone. California is predicted to be the #1 destination in the U.S. for foreign investors by the end of 2017.

Californian Estates has produced this Buyer’s Guide to introduce the opportunities in successfully buying Californian properties.

We hope you find it helpful and invite you to contact us to further explore options that suit your specific requirements.

INTERNATIONAL BUYERSGUIDE Spring 2015

The Global Marketplace of Real EstateInternational Investing in the U.S. is Soaring

mailto:[email protected]


http://www.californianestates.com/


http://www.realtor.org/sites/default/files/2014%20Profile%20of%20International%20Home%20Buying%20Activity.pdf






http://www.realtor.org/sites/default/files/reports/2013/international-business-reports/international-business-report-california-2013-10.pdf


http://www.car.org/newsstand/newsreleases/2014releases/2013intlsurvey





Located amongst breathtaking beaches, sweeping desert-scapes, majestic mountains, the bounty of agricultural farmlands and pulsating cities rich with cultural diversity, California has it all for any homebuyer or real estate investor. California, if separated from the United States, would on its own be a major player in the global economy. California’s economy ranks 8th in the world by GDP (bypassing countries such as Italy, Russia, India, Canada, Australia, South Korea and Spain). Continuing its trajectory of outpacing the nation in growth rate in past years, California is likely to move closer to the GDPs of France and the United Kingdom in 2014, according to the Center for Continuing Study of the Californian Economy (CCSCE), July 2014. Representing 13.2% of the total U.S. GDP, California has a diverse economy producing a wide variety of goods and services ($2 trillion in 2013). California boasted a population of over 38 million people, which continues to grow in size and diversity. California is home to giants of industry from sectors such as technology, entertainment, energy, agriculture, sports, aerospace and international trade. California is the gateway to Asia, with the U.S.’s two busiest ports in the country, both located in Southern California. California’s Silicone Valley in the North and Silicone by the Sea in the South are the hubs of innovation and development. The state takes pride in its many top rated Universities that teach the next generation of industry leaders. California is a robust and resilient market because of its consistently high market demand. With perfect weather year around, an enviable lifestyle and diverse and thriving business sectors, there seems to be no shortage of buyers and property values continue to rise. Zillow reports that California home values have gone up 11.5% over the year (September 2013-2014) and predicts they will rise 5.8% within the next year.

Investors From Around the World Flock to CaliforniaMore Than Just The Sun That Makes This Market So Vibrant

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http://www.ccsce.com/PDF/Numbers-July-2014-CA-Economy-Rankings-2013.pdf




http://www.zillow.com/ca/home-values/

http://www.zillow.com/ca/home-values/


Why Buy in the U.S.?U.S. real estate is widely considered a secure investment due to the strength of its economy. Purchasing property seems to be a prudent investment when working in the U.S. temporarily or providing a housing for their children who are attending an American college, which can be sold at a profit when their temporary stay in the US is over. U.S. real estate is widely seen as asset and good for portfolio diversification. 39% of international clients reported that they purchased a property because the U.S. was a desirable location, buying

property for vacation purposes. Recent immigrants to the U.S. often find that home ownership is important in becoming established in their new country. Before starting your property search, ask yourself:

• Is this home going be a vacation home?

• Is this your home while doing business in the United States?

• Is this a home for your children while they attend college in the States?

• Is this home going to be an investment property?

• Is this home going to be an eventual long-term residence?

Buying in the U.S.Who’s Leading the Way?International investing in U.S. real estate has experienced rapid growth. While it’s not news that U.S. real estate is attractive and considered safe for foreign investors, the consistent trends of growth in terms of transactions and dollars is definitely notable.

March 2013-2014 experienced a 35% increase over the previous year, resulting in $92.2 billion of international investment dollars to flow into the U.S. real estate market, according to the NAR “2014 Profile of International Home Buying Activity”.

International buyers came from every corner of the globe but five countries seem to lead the way: Canada, China, India, the United Kingdom and Mexico, accounting for 54% of the reported transactions according to the same NAR study.

Canada was ranked #1 for transaction volume. However Chinese investment accounted for the largest sales dollar volume because of the higher average price of properties purchased.

Chinese investment rose 72%, from $22 billion in the 12 months ending March 2014, up from $ 12.8 billion in the prior period. This accounts for about 24% of the total international dollar sales. NAR predicts that this growth will continue and estimates that investment from China will double and probably triple by 2015, becoming the market leader.

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Of REALTORS® who had an international client, 53% cited the security and profitability of investing in U.S. real estate.

Foreign investment in commercial property is also increasing throughout the U.S., representing a billion dollar market. In 2012, about $22.6 billion dollars flowed into the U.S., predominantly from Canada and countries in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Manhattan, San Francisco, and Los Angeles were the most active markets. These trends don’t show signs of slowing.





http://californianestates.com/?page_id=2













The United States is composed of 50 states that each have their own laws and regulations regarding the selling and purchasing of real estate. Purchasing contracts, escrow, titles and taxes may vary greatly. Therefore, to help you navigate a real estate purchase, it’s best to find a real estate professional who is licensed in the state in which you are interested in buying.

Real estate professionals, also known as Agents or REALTORS®, must complete rigorous coursework and testing, within the state they intend to work, in order to practice real estate. This licensing system ensures that all agents are qualified to lead their clients successfully and ethically when finding, evaluating and financing real estate.

In other countries, a potential buyer is forced to go from agent to agent to find the property they wish to buy. In the U.S., it’s more seamless. If you are buying property, it’s customary to have a Buyer’s Agent work on your behalf to find and evaluate a property, negotiate the sale and guide you towards financing, if needed. Since the sales commission is generally paid by the seller, the buyer usually pays nothing for this service.

U.S. real estate Agents access listing information which is shared by agents across the country call the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). You can search the database on CalifornianEstates.com for your perfect property by entering the criteria most important to you.

It’s crucial to consider financial issues such as: currency exchange rates, international wire transfers, banking systems, multinational taxation and accounting issues, and import/export restrictions regarding currency and household goods. Review the latest information regarding currency exchange rates. It will help you avoid miscalculations and improve your buying experience.

Investing in the United States Real Estate Market“The Basics”

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International investors have been drawn to this state for its beauty and its strong market values.

Three of the top 13 most commonly searched U.S. cities are Californian, according to Realtor.com

California’s resilient and productive economy makes it a hotbed for real estate investment. The topography and urban landscape of the “The Golden State” is extremely diverse. Each community offers a vast array of lifestyle and investment opportunities.

NAR “2014 Profile of International Home Buying Activity” stated that 2013-2014 yielded $11.6b in international sales in California, putting it second behind Florida. However, investment in California is increasing quickly and is expected to surge ahead of Florida by 2017, largely because of the increased Asian purchasing power and desire to be in California. 55% of international sales in Californian came from Asia. Of that, 35% in Los Angeles County, 22% in Orange County, 20% in San Diego County and 14% in Riverside. These number are expected to grow tremendously!

The Treasure of the Californian Real Estate Market“The Golden State”









http://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/h10/current/

http://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/h10/current/




Californian Cities are Consistently Top Ranked By the Most Active Foreign Investor Nationalities

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Los Angeles County

The historic and legendary county of Los Angeles is perhaps the most attractive buying location for international investors in California, boasting $4b in sales from March 2012-2013.

Divided into 80 different districts, Los Angeles is a tapestry of neighborhoods, each expressing a different personality and culture. From Downtown LA to Bel Air, Hollywood to Beverly Hills, there is something in this famous city for every type of property purchaser.

Los Angeles plays a role in many films and TV shows being portrayed as the glamorous home of the movies, the lap of luxury for the famous, the enviable life of the fit, sun-baked beach-

Popular Californian Real Estate Markets

Average Listing Price $1,267,879

Median Sales Price$570,000

Average Price/sqft$482

2013-2014 yielded $11.6b of foreign investment in California with rates of foreign investment growth so strong, California is expected to surge into first place by 2017 NAR “2014 Profile of International Home Buying Activity”










goers and famed surfers riding high on legendary waves and even more on adrenalin. All this is true but it's also the third largest metropolitan economy in the world, with a population of 13 million and a GDP of over $700 billion.

Los Angeles is a hub of the mega-powerful entertainment industry as well Silicone Valley’s expansion to the south, called Silicone by the Sea. With the country’s two biggest ports, international trade is the largest industry in Los Angeles by employment. Los Angeles leads the world in aerospace, clean technology, entertainment, fashion, healthcare and tourism. The Los Angeles area is home to 33 colleges including some of the world’s most renown: USC, UCLA, Pepperdine, Loyola Marymount, and neighboring Pasadena’s CalTech and Art Center College of Design.

Los Angeles has one of the most expensive housing market in the country. However, with its rich economy, job market, diverse industry and constant market demand (not to mention world-famous beaches and stunning hillside backdrops)

The San Francisco “Bay Area”

Commonly referred to as “The Bay Area,” this area includes San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, Santa Clara (Silicone Valley), Marin, San Mateo, Napa and Sonoma, Santa Cruz and Berkeley amongst many other populous cities. In 2012, GDP in the five-county San Francisco metropolitan area grew by 7.4%, to $360.4b making it the fastest growing in the U.S..

Between April and June 2014, the Bay Area saw a record number of homes selling for $1 million and above, and they accounted for one-quarter of all sales in the region. However, there is a range of median prices by city that can range from $240,000 in Vallejo (to the east) to $2.4m in Palo Alto or $5m in Pacific Heights (San Francisco).

The Bay Area has much to offer. Drenched with charm, San Francisco is renowned for its unique characteristics like its chilly summer fog, steep rolling hills and eclectic mix of Victorian and modern architecture. A bustling tourist destination, the city is rich with notable landmarks including the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, and Chinatown. Its a principal banking and finance center, and the home to more than 30 international financial institutions. The

San Francisco Bay area is the technology industry epicenter with its neighbor, Silicone Valley. The southern portion of the San Francisco Bay area is a magnet for the world’s technology, software, design and development innovations. Silicon Valley attracts huge industries, hundreds of thousands of high paid jobs and many foreign property owners. To the North, California's famous Wine Country is home to hundreds of vineyards and wineries, growing some of the world’s best wine in the Napa and Sonoma Valleys.

There are 96 higher-education learning institutions, including University of California, San Francisco (which is entirely dedicated to graduate education in health and biomedical sciences), University of California, Hastings College of the Law, San Francisco State University, Stanford, and 4 University of California colleges: Berkeley, San Francisco, Davis and Santa Cruz.

Average Listing Price$1,458,637


Average Price/sqft$860IN

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http://www.nydailynews.com/life-style/real-estate/san-francisco-real-estate-prices-soar-article-1.1887324











Average Listing Price$738,970



Property in San Diego is also expensive, but you do get more bang for your buck compared to LA and the Bay Area. Geographically diverse, San Diego is a sprawling county that includes 7 miles (11 km) of curving coastline along the Pacific Ocean, desert living to the East, and hillsides that prop up beautiful properties with even more breathtaking views.

San Diego is the second-most populous county in California and the fifth-most populous in the United States. There are many neighborhoods to explore, many of which are perfectly maintained and great for family living. The downtown San Diego “Gaslamp Quarter” provides an urban lifestyle expected of a big city, while the affluent hilly seaside community of La Jolla is perched over gorgeous beaches and offers a more luxurious lifestyle. Pacific Beach is a favorite destination for the active beach lover. Consider your own needs, and San Diego will surely have a community to satisfy them while also offering sun-kissed, semi-arid summers and mild winters.

San Diego attracts students from all over the world who attend esteemed higher education institutions such as: University of California, San Diego, San Diego State University, and California State University, San Marcos, University of San Diego (USD) amongst many others.

Orange County, “The OC”

Orange County is the third most populous county in California and the sixth-most populous in the United States. The OC includes 34 cities and 14 neighborhoods, many of which are relatively new and still growing. Many inhabitants have flocked to the OC because of the new builds, the planned communities and the ideal suburban living. Home values in the OC have gone up 5.3% over the past year and Zillow.com predicts they will rise 4.0% within the next year.

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Average Listing Price$635,00



San Diego County






Orange County is the headquarters of many Fortune 500 and 1000 companies, as well as any regional headquarters for international businesses such as: Mazda, Toshiba, Toyota, Samsung, Kia Motors, in the City of Irvine, Mitsubishi in the City of Cypress, and Hyundai in the City of Fountain Valley. Fashion is another important industry to Orange County with companies as diverse as St. John, Pac Sun, Quicksilver, Wet Seal amongst many more.

Attractions like Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm bring many tourists to the OC. The idyllic Laguna Beach with its coves and tide pools, Newport Beach with beautiful harbor and the waves of Huntington Beach’s legendary “Surf City” are just a few jewels of Orange County’s gorgeous coastline that stretches 40 miles (64 km).

Orange County has 23 colleges and Universities including Chapman University, a very prestigious private University, is located in the city of Orange and esteemed University of California Irvine.

Considering Your Investment OpportunitiesPractical Steps to Make Your Vision a RealityRecent real estate appreciation has been phenomenal in some parts of the state. But a savvy investor knows that they must all weigh all the pros and cons of their investing decisions, with the proper guidance.

There is a huge choice of property in California. From Hollywood mansions to unassuming apartment blocks, there really is something for everyone. Whether you desire a brand new home or prefer an older historic residence, it all comes down to personal choice.

Your Californian Estates agent can help you narrow down your search for the type of property, location. Is it a 100-year-old wooden town home or contemporary condo in San Francisco? We can help you choose a brand new home in one of the OC’s Planned Urban Developments. LA offers a wide range of single family homes on good-sized plots with different advantages as well as brand new high-rise condos in the gentrifying Downtown LA neighborhood. Your decision will start with property type and location.

You may next want to consider how long you want to hold the property. Do you want to make upgrades on the property and then flip it in short window of time? Conversely, is this a long term investment? Your Californian Estates agent will help you analyze the data and market trends to help find your perfect property with the power of choice on your side while mitigating risks with the power of knowledge.

The Buying ProcessIt is important to note that each state within the U.S. has its own rules regarding purchasing property, including the type of purchase contract used, the method of closing the sale and even the duties and titles of the individuals involved.

Before you can do anything you will need to get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The ITIN is a tax-processing number assigned to foreign nationals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number, but do not have one and are ineligible for Social Security numbers.

Once you have organized your ITIN, the actual buying process is relatively straightforward. It’s highly recommended that you next find a REALTOR® to help you find your property and assess a fair price and navigate the contract terms, financing options, inspection requirements and closing costs. Even if this is not your first purchase of U.S. real estate, no two transactions are alike and having a trusted agent on your side is key.

Once hired for the job, the REALTOR® will work with you by providing information detailing current market conditions, financing options and negotiating issues that might apply to a given situation. Your REALTOR® will keep you updated and alert you to each step in the transaction process.

If you plan to finance your purchase, you will have to work with your REALTOR® to find the right loan option for you. This will be a good time to get Loan Pre-Approval and work with a bank as a foreign buyer. This Pre-Approval letter can be shown to listing agents as proof of your financial strength and ability to buy the home.

Once you have found your property, you may make an offer to the buyer. The buyer may accept the offer and escrow will open or the buyer may reject the offer and counter offer. You may reject the counteroffer walk away; or suggest different terms and make a counteroffer. If you choose to negotiate and submit a counteroffer, the seller may accept, reject or make a counteroffer.

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http://www.car.org/marketdata/realestate411/reanalysisoct2013/

http://www.car.org/marketdata/realestate411/reanalysisoct2013/

http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/International-Taxpayers/Taxpayer-Identification-Numbers-%28TIN%29

http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/International-Taxpayers/Taxpayer-Identification-Numbers-%28TIN%29


Be aware that once you have submitted your Purchase Agreement and both parties have agreed to a price, then you have committed to buying the property in that exact condition – meaning that there is no changing your mind at a later date unless a specific clause has been included in the contract.

Once the contract has been signed a closing date will be established along with other terms that may include length of escrow, deposit, insurances, property taxes, closing costs, closing date, etc. Escrow may take as little as 10 days if paying cash. When financing a sale, it will commonly take between 60-90 days. Don’t forget to factor your closing costs into your final amount due as they will generally be 2-7% of the purchase price of the house. The full agreed upon balance will be due on the closing date.

If you are not fluent in English, or prefer speaking in your native language, Californian Estates can recommend, attorneys, inspectors and bankers who are conversant in your native language. While it may be possible to get translated copies of standard real estate documents, it's likely that you will have to sign the English versions when it comes time to close the deal.

Legal Issues Just as when buying a property, don’t assume that ownership rules are the same throughout the United States – especially if you are planning on renting out your property. Many Homeowners Association (HOA) have restrictions concerning rental. Be sure to get a copy of the HOA Rules & Regulations so ensure that you are allowed to lease the property out if you are buying with tenants in mind.

Likewise, many areas restrict short-term tenancy agreements, so if you are planning to rent your property out to fellow tourists on holiday it is vital to ensure that you aren’t breaking any rules before you sign on the dotted line.

FinanceThe U.S. home loan market offers an array of safe, affordable mortgages, including some that will allow Muslims to buy a home without violating Islamic laws against paying interest.

Before applying for a U.S. mortgage, you must first establish credit and earn a good credit score by opening U.S. bank and credit card accounts. Make sure to report all income on your tax returns as lenders use this income information to determine how much money they're willing to lend you to buy your property.

Qualified foreign buyers with a 30 to 40% down payment can often obtain financing for their property purchase in the U.S.. Many banks require international purchasers to have a specific amount ($100,000 or more) on deposit while others set loan limits of $1 to $2 million. You may also be required to present a minimum of three months of bank statements as proof of income.

With this in mind, it might be easier to raise the finance in your home country where you have a credit history. If you are unable to raise the finance against your new American property, then you can always take out a mortgage, or extend your existing one, against your primary residence.

Raising funds at home has another advantage too – it removes the fluctuations caused by the exchange rates. This is particularly important if you aren’t going to rent your U.S. home out, because it’s always advisable to pay a mortgage in the currency that you are earning in.

When the time comes to apply for a mortgage, consider major banks with global operations. These lenders will have the experience necessary to verify credit established in other countries and to guide you through the U.S. home-buying process.

You can of course pay for the property in cash, but be aware that all cash transactions over $10,000 need to be reported to the U.S. federal government.

Visas, Residency and Work Permits Buying a property in the U.S. does not entitle you to any privileges in terms of visas, residency or work permits. The average international tourist will be able to stay in their Californian home for up to six months, but this does depend on the customs official at the port of entry – as well as which type of visa you have.

If you travel to the United States visa free under the Visa Waiver Program, you are entitled to remain in the country for up to 90 days. However, if you travel to the U.S. on a visitor (B-2) visa, the amount of time that you will be allowed to stay will be determined by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at the port of entry. Initially they can grant a stay of six months,

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which can be extended for a further six months at their discretion. The USCIS has sole jurisdiction over such matters. Permanent residency and work permits are notoriously hard to obtain in the United States, and California is no exception. This isn’t to say that it’s impossible, however. A Green Card lottery, officially known as the Diversity Immigrant Visa Lottery, is held annually, whereby the American immigration department issues 50,000 permanent visas to the lucky few. However, with around 15 million applicants each year, this isn’t a method worth banking on!

For the business-minded, residency can be established through the Employment Fifth Preference (E5) Immigrant Investors with an investment of a specified amount of money into the U.S. economy that also creates domestic jobs. It is advisable to work with an Immigration Attorney and Californian Estates can help you find one.

Fees and TaxesThe State of California establishes property tax assessment standards and individual county governments are responsible for collecting property taxes. Forms and other resources are available from individual county assessors who are charged with establishing values for around 12 million properties each year.

As a general rule, closing costs in California can vary from 2-7% of the purchase price of the property. Closing costs includes processing fees, lender fees, title search and transfer costs, flood certification, recording fees, mortgage broker fees, appraisal fees, escrow fees and home insurance, in addition to a good faith deposit. If you are buying an apartment, then also be prepared to pay an HOA fee on either an annual or monthly basis.

You will be required to pay income tax on any rent received (minus expenses), however your individual tax situation will depend on whether your home country has a tax treaty with the United States. The services of an independent tax specialist may be required.Health and EducationEven if you are only planning to visit your Californian property infrequently, it’s essential that you have current health insurance. While hospitals and general health care facilities are among the best in the world they do come at a price. So ensure that you are correctly insured, otherwise you will be required to pay for every medical examination, treatment, procedure and prescription at the time of service.

In regards to education, California's open enrollment policy allows for you to send your child to any school within your home district provided there's availability. However, global history and foreign languages aren’t a big focus on the curriculum in public schools, and so if this is important to you it may be worth considering an international school.

With 173 colleges and universities in California, there is a wide choice of higher education including Stanford, the University of California Berkeley, University of Southern California (USC) and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) amongst many others preeminent institutions. Additionally, there are 112 community colleges. Students worldwide are attracted to California for this access to higher education as well as its desirable lifestyle. California campus towns are a great place for buying investment rental properties as these students will always need housing. Likewise, foreign students may consider buying a property for the 4-5 years of their college career. The opportunity to sell it afterwards at a profit is much more advantageous than throwing money away on rent.

Transport38 million people call California home, so you can expect your fair share of traffic jams. Despite this, driving is still the best way to get around. In addition to interstates and U.S. highways, California has one of the most expansive state highway systems in America. It is easy to hire a rental car provided that you have the usual documentation, but rates vary dramatically so make sure that you shop around.

Los Angeles and San Francisco offer metro (subway) networks, in addition to light rail. Metrolink commuter rail serves much of Southern California, while BART and Caltrain commuter rail connect Bay Area suburbs to San Francisco (also home to the famous trolley network.)

Almost all counties run bus lines, and many cities run their own bus network too. Intercity bus travel is supplied by Greyhound and Amtrak, both of which offer a cost effective way to see the Golden State – as well as the rest of the U.S.A.

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http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate/types/Immigrant-Investor-Visas.html

http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate/types/Immigrant-Investor-Visas.html


California is not only one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the U.S., it is also the most economically viable. Market demand for real estate is consistently on an upward trajectory. It is ripe with investment opportunity and plentiful with properties to suit any venture. Market data, year over year indicate quickly growing interest of international buyers in the Californian real estate market from San Diego to Silicone Valley, Los Angeles to San Francisco; and these trends don’t indicate slowing.

While this guide will help you get started, it is no substitute for the expertise of experienced real estate agents, attorneys, mortgage brokers and accountants who can advise you along the way.

Californian Estates has vast experience in international realty and will work hard to be your Real Estate resource. Dedicated to superior and personalized customer service, Californian Estates agents endeavour to take the stress out of the home buying process. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and look forward to the opportunity of successfully finding your ideal property at the best price.

Investing in California to Embolden Your Dreams Californian Estates Gives You Power of Choice

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Californian Estates is a unique real estate company that innovates strategies, develops creative solutions, and leverages a vast network of agents, clients and properties to facilitate real estate selling and purchasing to achieve earnest value for its clients.

Founder and Director Maurice O’Sullivan brings 30 years of successful marketing and sales experience within some of the hottest real estate markets throughout Asia and Europe, achieving sales in excess of US$1bn. Under his experienced direction, he has been at the helm of multinational real estate sales and development companies and large teams of agents who have earned similar success. He now brings this success to

California through Californian Estates, Inc.

California has proven to be one of the most desirable place to live and do business on the planet. Consequently, its among the favored destinations for many savvy investors. Therefore, it was a natural next step to expand his business to America’s West Coast, showcasing the vibrant, diverse and consistently sought-after real estate market of California to regional, national and worldwide audiences.

Californian Estates is the culmination of his vast experience, knowledge and network of relationships in the global and local real estate market, it is uniquely positioned to connect local sellers and developers with a worldwide audience of buyers and investors.

Californian Estates is committed to local, regional and international buyers and sellers. Our pledge to all of our clients is unwavering and resolute: Californian Estates will deliver exemplary personalized care, exercise the highest degree of discretion, communicate an in-depth understanding of Californian real estate market trends and provide unparalleled guidance and information so that every client has the power of knowledge on their side.

Maurice, originally from the United Kingdom, started his real estate career in the prestigious town of Marbella/Puerto Banus in Spain on the Southern coast of Andalucía. Maurice excelled at marketing and selling luxurious real estate to European investors.

In Asia, Maurice as an agent for one of the most successful resort properties in the region and earned the prestigious reputation of becoming Group Marketing Director Asia Pacific. Through his lead generation he push the brand to new heights that eventually sold over 16,000 properties and over US$1 billion in sales worldwide, making them one of the biggest developers in the Asia Pacific region. Maurice brings with him massive international agency connections on a global scale for lead generation.

Maurice is excited about the prospect of moving his company and brand Californian Estates, Inc. along with Keller Williams Brentwood Into the International arena and is relishing the challenges ahead.

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Connects Knowledge, Experience and Committed Service to Empower Your Vision

Maurice O’SullivanCEO/Managing Director/REALTOR®

[email protected] +1 323 303 4491BRE#01959295





http://www.californianestates.com

http://www.californianestates.com




Sources for this International Buyers GuideMore Information Can be Found in the Following Documents

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2014 Profile of International Home Buying Activity, Published by National Association of REALTORS®

2013 Profile of International Home Buying Activity, Published by National Association of REALTORS®

Business Data for International Real Estate Transactions in California, published by the National Association of REALTORS® RESEARCH DIVISION, 2013

International Client Survey Results, published by California Association of REALTORS®, April 3, 2014

California Once Again theWorld’s 8th Largest Economy, published by the Center for Continuing Study of the Californian Economy, July 2014.

Current Market information can also be found on Realtor.com, Trulia.com and Zillow.com







http://www.realtor.org/sites/default/files/2013-profile-of-international-home-buying-activity-2013-06.pdf

http://www.realtor.org/sites/default/files/2013-profile-of-international-home-buying-activity-2013-06.pdf







http://www.Realtor.com

http://www.Realtor.com

http://www.Trulia.com

http://www.Trulia.com

http://www.Zillow.com

http://www.Zillow.com