Newport Beach and Irvine Apartments Attract “Snowbirds”

Newport Beach-based developer Irvine Co. is offering some 200 furnished apartments across seven communities in Newport Beach and Irvine, hoping to attract travelers who flock to the south during the winter months.

Two of the most promising sites are The Village, located at the Irvine Spectrum Center, and The Colony on Fashion Island in Newport Beach. Both developments typically offer furnished units to corporate travelers year-round and to vacationers during the summer.

The Village offers four spas and saltwater pools and a 20-seat moving theater. The more upscale Colony suites come with semi-privata cabanas and a valet car wash. The suites are offered at $3,000 a month and up, and renters must stay for at least 31 days.

Villa Coronado, Villa Siena, and Brittany are also among the Irvine Company's resort-style projects aimed at drawing in travelers from colder climates, known colloquially as "snowbirds."

The apartment complexes will help stimulate tourism in Orange County as the winter months draw near and travelers from up north choose to spend the holidays in warmer climates, according to Kerri Zarzana, Irvine Co. sales director for apartment communities.

Experts believe these Orange County rentals are more likely attract wealthy travelers, as those with lower income will opt for less upscale destinations such as Florida and Arizona where rentals are more affordable.

Newport Beach and Irvine are both popular year-round destinations because of their proximity to the beach and wealth of tourist attractions. Newport Beach is especially desirable for its waterfront homes and sandy beaches, as well as high-end shopping.

 

Earlier in Newport Beach Real Estate News:
Newport Wins Award for Best Beaches
Newport Beach Home On Private Island Hits Market for $28 Million
Old Newport Beach Building To Be Transformed