"Downton Abbey" fans will recognize this stunning beachfront hotel, which featured in several memorable episodes of Season one (Casino night, anyone?). "Season 2 will air later this year.
The 3,817-square-foot home has a bright open floor plan with walls of glass and front-row views of the bay.
Gourmet Chef's kitchen offers custom cabinets, sand-toned countertops, high-end appliances, and a walk-in pantry. The nearby living room has a coffered ceiling and a beautiful fireplace with an ornate mantel.
"This is my childhood home, and selling it brings a lot of emotion," said Helou, who is also the listing agent for the Oppenheim Group. "It's 100 percent bittersweet. It's been an emotional rollercoaster, and it can seem surreal to take personal photos and show them to strangers. There were many reasons for the decision to sell it, but now it's time to say goodbye. We are ready for the next family to come here and make their own memories here."
This four-bedroom house is situated on Balboa Peninsula Point, just steps from Wedge Beach.
Other luxury highlights throughout the property include an underground wine cellar, an elevator, a second floor living room with a balcony, and a two-car garage. The luxury outdoor living space also features a covered patio with a built-in grill and fire pit.
"Its location right next to the mouth of the bay is incredible," Helou said. "It's a beautiful painting of a sailboat. There's a private dock, so you can hop on a rowboat and enjoy the water. If you just want to enjoy the view, you can go to the roof deck, which is spectacular. It's an incredible view of the sea from there."
How did the opportunity for this house to appear on "OC for Sale" come about?
"When the show was being made, they asked us where we lived and could we shoot there," He explained. "I said it was an honor to have this house on the show. Now the house has become almost its own character. Not only do I find the sale bittersweet, but the entire cast feels the same way."
There's a bedroom with a bathroom on the first floor and two more upstairs. The spacious master bedroom has a balcony that spans the length of the sitting area, which has a fireplace. The master bathroom offers double vanities, two water closets, and an oversized shower.
He says it is difficult to fully envision the next family's inhabitants.
"It's hard not to see another self living there," he said. "I want someone who appreciates this family. It would be a great main or holiday home. It's really an a + location."
