With California prices climbing, homes under $500,000 are harder to find—but not impossible. We rounded up five solid picks that offer space, character, and a chance to own in a competitive market.
Scenic Mountain Retreat Opportunity – ±1.38 Acres In Wrightwood, CA | $240,000
Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Wrightwood with these two contiguous parcels offering ±1.38 acres of land. Featuring a cleared build- ready area and convenient access, this rare opportunity is perfect for crafting your dream home or private retreat. Enjoy stunning mountain views, year-round outdoor adventures, and the charm of a peaceful mountain town. Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity in one of Southern California’s most scenic destinations! Wrightwood is a charming mountain town in Southern California’s San Bernardino Mountains, located about 75 miles northeast of Los Angeles. Nestled at an elevation of 6,000 ft, it offers year-round outdoor activities, including skiing and snowboarding at Mountain High in the winter and hiking and biking in the summer.
Size: acres
Price: $240,000
Listing details: Known for its scenic beauty, Wrightwood features a historic Main Street with local shops and restaurants, and is surrounded by the Angeles National Forest. The town provides a peaceful retreat with a tight-knit community and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and desert. HIGHLIGHTS Prime Location: Two contiguous parcels located on Mojave Scenic Drive in the picturesque mountain community of Wrightwood, CA. Generous Lot Size: Combined total of approximately ±1.38 acres of land. Ready for Development: Features a convenient access drive and a cleared area, ideal for building your dream home. Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery and tranquil surroundings. Endless Potential: Perfect for creating a private retreat or vacation getaway in a serene and sought-after location.
Contact: Joseph V. Hisquierdo, Lee & Associates, +1 760.684.8206
24515 California Ave Spc 26 | $250,000
Welcome to Maze Stone Village, a 55+ hidden gem on the outskirts of West Hemet near Four Seasons and Hemet Golf Club.
Size: 1,344 sf
Price: $250,000
Listing details: Don’t miss this beautifully remodeled 2-bed/2-bath manufactured home with custom finishes and LVP flooring.
Contact: Audra Merrell, +1 951.407.6324
The Good Life |$415,000
Tastefully updated Vintage model with sensational golf course and mountain views. The sunny south-facing patio, with artistic landscaping, offers a peaceful retreat. Inside, the kitchen features stainless steel appliances and an island anchoring open living spaces. Two separate bedrooms, each with walk-in closets, provide ample storage. Convenient in-unit laundry and two-car side-by-side parking, with carport access.
Size: sf
Price: $415,000
Listing details: Located on Preston Trail, it’s the first street from the gate, ensuring easy access. Experience resort-like living in a secure, guard-gated community. Enjoy sports like golf, tennis, and pickleball, plus 20 pools and an active clubhouse. Pet-friendly, short-term leases allowed. Turnkey, ready for a fabulous new life-style.
Contact: Andrea Best, The Mason Group, +1 760.766.7500
45525 Highway 79 Lot 276 | $199,900
Large family room, dining room and kitchen.
Size: sf
Price: $199,900
Listing details: On the second floor, the primary bedroom boasts stunning water views and a spa-like ensuite bathroom. Two additional bedrooms share a full bathroom, providing plenty of space for guests or children. This stunning property also features Anderson windows and sliding door, a dock, and a spacious bonus room on the third floor, all designed to make the most of its picturesque waterfront location. Don’t miss your chance to make this incredible property your own!
Contact: Mark Fioresi & Sam Page, Fathom Realty, +1 319.310.4725
23328 Knapps Cutoff |$435,000
Experience modern living in this newly renovated Gambrel style home nestled in the heart of Crestline! You first enter into a remodeled kitchen, featuring a brand-new island that offers additional counter space and seating. Upgraded with sleek quartz countertops, solid wood cabinetry, and new plumbing, this kitchen includes amazing natural light that seamlessly blends style and functionality—perfect for cooking, entertaining, and gathering with loved ones. From the kitchen you step into a warm and inviting living space which includes a fully restored wood-burning stove, complete with a kettle or Dutch oven arm, which sits atop a sleek, fire-safe tile platform—perfect for cozy evenings.
Size: 1,482 sf
Price: $435,000
Listing details: Overhead, a stylish LED chandelier adds a touch of contemporary sophistication. This room includes open beamed ceilings, expansive windows and dual sliding doors that open up to the top deck and forest views. The remainder of the main living space includes a remodeled bathroom that includes everything new with accented gold brushed faucet system. Below the main living space, you’ll find three spacious rooms with new vinyl flooring, and new 55,000 BTU dual wall heaters. Two of the bedrooms include sliding doors to the lower deck and backyard. The beautifully updated downstairs bathroom features a new vanity, faucet, and countertop.
Contact: Ruben Soto, Meridian Property Group, +1 951.232.2200
