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About Rancho Mission Viejo, CA

About Rancho Mission Viejo, CA

A multigenerational master-planned community

Developed on former ranchland in southern Orange County, Rancho Mission Viejo is an expansive area of master-planned residential villages. "It was created as an all-encompassing, idyllic community," Daniel Finder, Realtor with The Finder Group and EQTY Forbes Global Properties, says. The first development was traditionally planned, with the addition of being connected to a 55-and-up community. "Grandma and Pappy can meet you at the community center. They'll have a pool, and on the other side, just a fence away, is all the ruckus with the kids," Finder says. This multigenerational co-mingling lets families make the most of the area.

Condos, duplexes and single-family homes

Rancho Mission Viejo offers the comforts and convenience of well-appointed homes with the beauty and tranquility of wild nature nearby. "It sits in its own little pocket, a valley," Finder says. "Some people don't like it because it tends to hold in the heat." Residences in the villages include three-story stacked flats and town houses, duplexes, and two- or three-story single-family homes. There also are options for those in the 55-plus age group, both one- and two-story homes. Finder says the architecture is consistent, even a bit redundant, when it comes to house styles. "However, it's beautiful," he says. "There's a good portion built on a nicely sized hill, so you can get some of the most epic views." Prices range from about $500,000 for a one-bedroom condo to $950,000 for a three-bedroom town house. Larger, single-family homes are priced from $1 million to $2.25 million, and especially expansive estates typically exceed $5 million. Finder mentions the Mello-Roos infrastructure bonds associated to the homes. "They are aggressive and can be a deterrent for people who want to move here." On top of homeowners association fees, you'll also have these costs. He compares it to other areas in the region: "Your taxes in SoCal are about 1%; for Rancho Mission Viejo, you could pay almost double."

Ranch Camp

The villages offer exceptional spots for swimming, like the 20,000-square-foot Ranch Cove pool. Visit the Ranch Camp for a full slate of amenities and activities. Would you like to grow your own vegetables? Get your hands dirty at one of the dedicated farm sites. The Nature Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo offers protected open space, hiking trails, and plenty of public and private events. Visit Esencia Zipline Park for some elevated fun; you'll be glad to hear it has a rubber surface. Close by is The Backyard, a kids' favorite for playhouses and climbing nets.

Capistrano Unified School District

Students living in Rancho Mission Viejo can attend public schools in the Capistrano Unified School District, like Esencia K-8, graded A by Niche. They can move on to nearby Tesoro High or San Juan Hills High, both graded A+.

Sendero Marketplace

Relax with a hot beverage at Canyon Coffee and then head to Sendero Marketplace, where there's an assortment of shops. You can drop off your dry cleaning, get a haircut and pick up groceries at Gelson's on the way home. If you prefer eating out, try a dining spot like Scarlet Kitchen and Lounge, serving sandwich and salad classics and more.

Interstate 5

The enchanting surroundings, with lemon and avocado orchards, mountain views, and extensive hiking and biking trails, add to the sublime ambiance of Rancho Mission Viejo. And if you want to venture to the coast, it's only about 10 miles away. You can take State Route 74 to link up with nearby Interstate 5 and head south. Appealing homes and amenities plus opportunities to have extended family close to home make Rancho Mission Viejo a superb part of Orange County.

Jessica Haddad
Written By
Jessica Haddad
Ling Ge
Photography Contributed By
Ling Ge
Melinda Anselmo
Video By
Melinda Anselmo

Neighborhood Map

Rancho Mission Viejo by the Numbers

11,677
Population
$1.42M
Average Housing Value
41
Average Days on Market

Average Home Value



Source: Public Records

Top Schools in Rancho Mission Viejo, CA

Source:

Best Public Elementary Schools

Chaparral Elementary School
#1 Chaparral Elementary School
A
Niche
10
GreatSchools
Ladera Ranch Elementary School
#2 Ladera Ranch Elementary School
A
Niche
9
GreatSchools
Las Flores Middle School
#3 Las Flores Middle School
A
Niche
9
GreatSchools
Oso Grande Elementary School
#4 Oso Grande Elementary School
A
Niche
9
GreatSchools
Wagon Wheel Elementary School
#5 Wagon Wheel Elementary School
A
Niche
9
GreatSchools
Esencia Middle School
#6 Esencia Middle School
A
Niche
8
GreatSchools
Vista Del Mar Elementary School
#7 Vista Del Mar Elementary School
A
Niche
8
GreatSchools
Cole Canyon Elementary School
#8 Cole Canyon Elementary School
A-
Niche
8
GreatSchools
Harold Ambuehl Elementary School
#9 Harold Ambuehl Elementary School
A-
Niche
5
GreatSchools

Best Public Middle Schools

Ladera Ranch Middle School
#1 Ladera Ranch Middle School
A
Niche
9
GreatSchools
Las Flores Middle School
#2 Las Flores Middle School
A
Niche
9
GreatSchools
Esencia Middle School
#3 Esencia Middle School
A
Niche
8
GreatSchools
Vista Del Mar Middle School
#4 Vista Del Mar Middle School
A
Niche
8
GreatSchools
Marco Forster Middle School
#5 Marco Forster Middle School
A-
Niche
7
GreatSchools
Thompson Middle School
#6 Thompson Middle School
A-
Niche
7
GreatSchools

Best Public High Schools

San Juan Hills High School
#1 San Juan Hills High School
A+
Niche
9
GreatSchools
Tesoro High School
#2 Tesoro High School
A+
Niche
9
GreatSchools
Murrieta Valley High School
#3 Murrieta Valley High School
A
Niche
9
GreatSchools
San Clemente High School
#4 San Clemente High School
A
Niche
8
GreatSchools
Fallbrook High School
#5 Fallbrook High School
B+
Niche
6
GreatSchools

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Agent Spotlight

Tony Maniaci
(949) 868-7811
Tony Maniaci, is a distinguished realtor whose reputation precedes him in Dana Point, California.
Tony Maniaci has made a name for himself with consistent multi-million dollar sales year after year, underpinned by his unwavering commitment to integrity, diplomacy, and sincerity. His approach is customer-centric, ensuring that at the heart of every transaction lies the client's best interest. His success is not by chance; it's the result of a patient demeanor, a dedicated work ethic, formidable negotiation skills, and a proficiency in closing deals.

Working with Tony you work with a realtor who prioritizes understanding clients' needs and fostering long-term relationships. While Tony is a formidable negotiator and advocate, his compassionate, friendly, and humorous nature provides a sense of ease during what can often be a stressful process. His ability to connect and build trust with both clientele and colleagues alike sets him apart in the real estate industry.

Tony's expert guidance not only meets but exceeds expectations, while enjoying a seamless, professional experience facilitated by one of Dana Point's leading top real estate figures.

For a transaction that promises professionalism, care, and exceptional outcomes, look no further than Tony Maniaci.
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.