Orange County’s Iconic Lyon Estate Listed for $125 Million

Categories: Business NewsNewsReal Estate & Properties

The luxurious Lyon Estate, a symbol of opulence in Orange County.

News Summary

The Lyon Estate in Coto de Caza is on the market for $125 million, making it the second-most expensive listing in Orange County. This 137-acre property features a 21,000-square-foot Georgian mansion, luxury amenities, and multiple guest homes. With a championship tennis court, a car museum, equestrian facilities, and pre-approved development plans for new homes, this estate is a prime investment opportunity, combining luxury living with a rich legacy.

Orange County’s Iconic Lyon Estate Listed for $125 Million

The Lyon Estate in Coto de Caza, a sprawling 137-acre property, is currently on the market for $125 million, making it the second-most expensive listing in Orange County. The estate boasts a remarkable 21,000-square-foot Georgian-style mansion, accompanied by luxury amenities aimed at attracting jetsetters, car collectors, and equestrians alike.

Luxury Features and Amenities

Constructed in 1986 by the late Major General William Lyon, a prominent figure in homebuilding and the Air Force, the estate showcases a wealth of luxurious features. The main residence comprises 11 bathrooms and eight bedrooms, catering to both residents and guests, with three guest homes situated on the property. Additional amenities include a resort-style swimming pool complete with a standalone pool house, dry sauna, and changing rooms, positioning it as an ideal retreat.

Among the standout features is a championship-size tennis court and a helicopter landing pad, simplifying travel for those residing on-site. Car enthusiasts will appreciate the 23,670-square-foot car museum, which is capable of housing up to 70 vehicles and includes a professional-grade auto shop, recess turntable, and wash station.

The estate is also equipped with exemplary equestrian facilities, featuring a 10-stall barn and riding arena, appealing to horse lovers. Natural beauty surrounds the property, with 41 acres of orange orchards and two lakes utilized for irrigation, enhancing the picturesque landscape. Additional features include a brick-clad wine cellar, a greenhouse, and a serene pond, contributing to the estate’s charm.

Potential for Development

On the southern end of the estate, there are pre-approved plans for a development of 25 new homes covering 64 acres, demonstrating potential for future investment. After the addition of these properties, the estate may see further appeal among developers and buyers looking to capitalize on the area’s real estate market.

A Family Heritage

Major General William Lyon, who passed away in 2020 at age 97, was a significant player in the homebuilding industry, founding his company in the 1950s with family members. He merged his firm with Taylor Morrison for approximately $950 million in 2020, cementing a legacy of creating over 100,000 homes during his career. His wife, Willa Dean Lyon, passed away in October 2024 at age 93, marking the end of an enduring family presence at the estate.

Noteworthy events hosted at the Lyon Estate include a fundraiser for the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, which featured President Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan, demonstrating the property’s connections to prominent historical figures. The estate also carries a unique aspect from a family hunting trip in the 1980s, with preserved game adding character to its story.

Market Context

With a listing price of $125 million, the Lyon Estate stands as a significant offering in the Orange County real estate market, second only to a $150 million estate in San Juan Capistrano. As buyers and developers continue to show interest, the property encapsulates luxury living intertwined with a rich heritage, making it a compelling investment opportunity.