From its rolling, green hillsides, scenic horseback riding trails and close-knit country charm to its blue-ribbon schools, expansive yards and enviable acreage counts, it’s no wonder angelenos and foreign buyers alike are setting their sights on Calabasas.
“Calabasas is attracting more and more families not only on the basis of value compared to the rest of L.A. but out of a specific demand for its gated communities, award-winning schools and incomparable quality of life,” says Emil Hartoonian, Managing Partner of The Agency’s Calabasas office and one of the area’s top-producing agents. Emil recently represented the buyer of Prado De Los Suenos, Calabasas’ top sale of 2017. Featured in Los Angeles Times, the custom-built home, formerly owned by television producer David Broome and leased by pop star Britney Spears, closed for $8.1 million back in June. Among its covetable features are a two-story, wood-paneled library, replete with a private office, bar and fireplace, and a striking inner courtyard lined with French terra cotta pavers and crowned by a limestone fountain. “Prado De Los Suenos sits on one of the best curb appeal lots in the Estates at The Oaks,” he says. “It truly is a trophy property.”
That trophy property may no longer be on the market, but there are still plenty of gems to covet in the 91302. Emil also represents 25571 Prado De Azul, a stunningly reimagined, contemporary estate which, like its record-setting neighbor, is located behind the prestigious guarded gates at The Oaks. Sited on the highest elevated street in the area, it boasts an open floor plan, remodeled chef’s kitchen, five guest suites, home theater and superbly scaled grounds with a swimming pool and outdoor kitchen.
Meanwhile, John Herkenrath and Craig Knizek will be bringing 2599 Stokes Canyon Road, a six-bedroom, 4,600-square-foot contemporary home, to market 
in the coming days. Located at the base of Country Ridge Estates, the luxury offering The Agency sold last year, the home represents a unique confluence of Calabasas’ greatest traits. It neighbors acres of undeveloped canyon terrain, offering absolute privacy, abundant land and exceptional views, all just minutes from Malibu’s PCH, Zuma Beach, The Commons at Calabasas, and award-winning schools.
For those interested in testing the waters, 25919 Dark Creek Road, a phenomenal California Mission-style compound represented by Christopher Dyson, is currently leasing for 
$40,000 per month. Moments from the beach, the residence features a 9,659-square-foot main house with hand-hewn walnut floors, alder wood beam ceilings and custom chandeliers, a guard house, two large guest houses and a separate meditation teahouse. Its five bucolic acres, which include a resort-style, mosaic pool and spa, vineyard and organic gardens, speak to one of Calabasas’ most desirable traits: the luxury of space.
“Buyers from all ends of the world are looking to Calabasas as a final destination for beauty, safety and community,” Emil says. “The quality of life in Calabasas is one of a kind—and its allure is only growing.”
