AT HOME : Charming Coastal Area Packs Them In : Corona del Mar: Despite small lots and high home prices, community of older beach homes is one of the most desirable in Southland.

"I went out with realtors time and again. I would say 'You people are all insane. . . . You're paying so much for a little house.' I finally got to the point that I saw this was the way it would be. . . . Everyone is crazy, but now I'm crazy too."

"It was difficult (for us) to accept living in a house so close to another neighbor, but we are at the top of a hill. Visually, we have the feeling of open space."

"Many of the houses are older beach homes, most of which were originally built with wood clapboard siding or shingles, and small-paned wood windows--reminiscent of New England seashore architecture--and situated on tiny lots. Today many of those homes have been extensively remodeled and enlarged, often covering the entire lot or spread over two lots."

Corona del Mar is a coastal community of 13,000 residents within Newport Beach, characterized by its desirable location near cultural amenities, restaurants, and employment centers like Irvine. The area features two distinct sections: "The Village" between Pacific Coast Highway and the ocean, and inland neighborhoods. Historic beach homes with New England-style architecture on small lots dominate the landscape, though many have been extensively remodeled and expanded. The real estate market commands high prices, with buyers accepting close neighbor proximity in exchange for coastal living and visual open space from elevated positions. Architectural diversity defines the community, with mansions and beach cottages existing side by side throughout the narrow, flower and tree-named streets.

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