Lake Forest
Lake Forest was originally known as El Toro. It became a city in 1991 and was re-named Lake Forest. Back in the day El Toro was a stagecoach stop between Los Angeles and San Diego. After World War II the El Toro Marine base was catalyst to change from citrus groves to residential, commercial and industrial growth.
The area was known to be Marine friendly with businesses and housing that catered to the Marines. That all was changed with El Toro Marine Base closed. The process to decide what to do with such a massive amount of land was not an easy thing. After many years of heated debates, special elections and more the large piece of land was sold to the Great Park, which is now part of Irvine.
Lake Forest has two lakes which have homes surrounding them, they allow small electric boats and one has a Sun and Sail Club for members to enjoy. The Lake Forest I has a clubhouse, tennis courts, pool and more. The owners of homes in the immediate vicinity get to be members of these lakes and what they have to offer.
Lake Forest incorporated Foothill Ranch and Portola Hills. So those homes are now officially part of Lake Forest. Lake Forest is starting to have new homes again- there is a small area off Lake Forest and Pittsford that has some of the new homes available. There is currently a plan to have more new home complexes in the near future.
Lake Forest did an excellent job revitalizing their shopping areas off El Toro road. The area became what is now called the Arbors, they really did a great job in making this area attractive to shops and shoppers.
Lake Forest is also home to many parks, and recreational activities. One of the huge attractions for teenagers is the Etnies Skate Park. There are many open parks, baseball and softball parks, and even some Regional parks- one being Whiting Ranch which is famous for its mountain biking and even an occasional mountain lion sighting so be careful out there! There is also the historical site- Heritage Hill which houses lots of information regarding the area and its vast history.
The city has many elementary schools throughout so most children can walk to school if they desire, plus there are several middle schools and one High School- El Toro High. All of the public schools are located in Saddleback Valley School district.
Lake Forest is a great place to call home!
Meet Rita
Customer service is what my focus is. I service buyers by finding out their specific needs and wants and then searching for the perfect home for them.
Success Stories
Top qualities: Great Results, Personable, Expert
“We worked with Rita in our search for our first home. She came highly recommended, having sold my parents their house 12 years ago. Rita was incredibly thorough and detail oriented. She previewed each property before she took us through. She wanted to know exactly what we liked and didn't like about each house, so that she could tailor her future recommendations for us. We ended up finding our house on the second day! Rita was amazing during the buying and closing process. She patiently answered all of my questions and had great recommendations for our home inspector, our painters, and any other professionals. I would DEFINITELY recommend Rita for anyone looking to buy or sell a home.” November 1, 2009
Top qualities: Great Results, Expert, High Integrity
“Rita is a Miracle Worker and Godsend! When my husband and I married Rita sold both of our condos in a terrible market and helped us buy a beautiful home for our family. Then two years later when my husband was transferred out of state for work, I was completely comforted to know that Rita would be there to sell our home so that I could focus on getting moved. And true to form, Rita brought in a buyer in record time. We never had to worry with Rita on our side! And each transaction was so simple...even working between California and Minnesota! But the best part about Rita is that she isn't just a realtor...she's a friend! We will never forget her amazing dedication. Thank you, Rita!” July 9, 2010