The Buyer’s Ultimate Guide to Marquez Knolls Lots: Views, Value, and Vetting Hillside Parcels
Pali Living – Your Pacific Palisades Lot Specialists
Marquez Knolls is one of the most desirable hillside communities, known for it’s commanding ocean views and generously sized lots. In the post-fire market, this area presents a unique, high-value opportunity: acquiring premium, view-focused land at a price below pre-fire levels to build a fully customized estate.
1. The Marquez Knolls Advantage: Post-Fire Opportunity
The neighborhood’s natural elevated setting is the core of its value, which now translates directly into substantial investment upside.
- View Premium: Properties here offer unobstructed ocean and city views. Lots with these sweeping views secure the highest prices and appreciate strongly over time.
- Pricing Window: Land prices across the Palisades have declined by 35–40% since the wildfires, creating a golden opportunity for buyers willing to build.
- Neighborhood Vibe: The area maintains a quiet, residential setting while remaining close to amenities like Marquez Elementary School and Palisades Village.
Actionable Next Step: See which premium properties are available right now. Lots in Marquez Knolls currently range from approximately $1.4M to over $3.8M. Browse all Marquez Knolls Lots for Sale.
2. Due Diligence: Vetting the Hillside Parcel
Successful development in Marquez Knolls hinges on mitigating the inherent risk of its hillside terrain. This phase is critical to determine the true “all-in” cost of your project.
2.1. The Mandatory Geotechnical Survey
Hillside areas in LA County require comprehensive geotechnical studies to ensure stability and foundation integrity.
- Why it’s Required: A soils report is a technical document that assesses soil layers, drainage, and slope stability to mitigate the risk of landslides and foundation failure.
- Buyer Action: Always budget for a new geotechnical (or soils) report. A previous report can be used if it was prepared for a similar scope of work and is approved by LADBS within 10 years of the Mayor’s Emergency Order (EO1).
- Warning: Hillside lots are generally less expensive, but required engineering, retaining walls, and foundation reinforcement can increase construction costs and outweigh the initial land savings.
Technical Resource: To understand the specific requirements for geologic and soils reports in the Palisades fire area, consult the LADBS Information Bulletin on Rebuilding Reports.
2.2. Zoning and Entitlements
- View Protection: Many lots, especially those developed by the Marquez family, may be subject to CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions) that enforce view protection. Buyers need to review these early.
- 110% Size Bonus: Many available parcels are fire-affected. Your lot may qualify for the “fast-track” building permit process, allowing you to build up to 110% of the previous home’s size without the usual delays. Market your purchase as securing this pre-approved entitlement.
3. Investment Outlook & The Build Process
- Build Cost: Budget for current luxury construction costs, estimated between $450 and $650+ per square foot. The complexity of a hillside build will push costs toward the higher end.
- Lot Comps: Land lots in Marquez Knolls are currently listing from approximately $1.4M to over $3.8M. A key value indicator is the inclusion of a recent Geo/Soil Report in the sale.
Financial Clarity: Determine the full project cost before making an offer. Get a Free Lot Valuation.
Your Next Step: Ready to start the design process? Learn how to select a team with hillside experience. AIA Los Angeles Chapter.
Contact David & Anna Solomon
The highly specific nature of canyon lots means the best opportunities often require focused outreach. To ensure you see every premium ocean-view lot matching your vision, Schedule a Private Buyer’s Tour.