First Team | Christie’s Meital Taub Donates Commission to Big Brothers Big Sisters

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First Team Real EstateLAGUNA BEACH, CA - First Team | Christie’s International Real Estate’s coastal luxury REALTOR®, Meital Taub, listed and sold the ocean-view masterpiece that the late owner William D. Ray had originally donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters.

With a heart for her community and at-risk youth facing adversity, Meital knew that the decision to donate her commission from the sale to an organization dedicated to caring for these children was not only the right decision, but was also an easy one: “There are children in our local communities whose ability to succeed is impaired by a struggle with absentee parents, homelessness and poverty,” explained Meital. “We each have a responsibility to have an effect on the lives of those around us and develop positive relationships; I couldn’t think of a better local agency than Big Brothers Big Sisters to donate my commission to.”The proceeds—totaling to $10,995,000—of the sale of 1570 Fayette Place in Laguna Beach on April 8th, 2019 were donated to benefit the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County nonprofit organization, making it the largest donation to the agency in history. The estate itself—having previously been owned and later donated by William D. Ray, a man who had faced adversity as a child orphan—presents East Coast elegance that meets West Coast opulence. The majestic property emanates luxury and charm with abundant panoramic views of the ocean and coastline. Designed to showcase all of the best architectural elements of Connecticut Farmhouse style, this exquisite home boasts a regal esthetic unlike anything else along California’s gold coast. Given that it’s situated on a prime bluffside lot, nearly a full acre in size—complete with a private gated driveway and impeccably manicured grounds, which include terraced formal gardens inspired by Washington D.C.’s Dumbarton Oaks Museum—it feels incredibly secluded.

Replete with a sparkling pool and spa, the home’s massive backyard offers a picturesque area that’s luxe enough for a wedding, yet warm and intimate enough for everyday gatherings. There are three separate dining areas: a spacious formal dining room accessed via stately French doors, a serene garden room opening directly out to the pool area and a country kitchen with a charming stone fireplace. Nearly every corner of this spectacular property boasts sit-down views of the glimmering Pacific Ocean, a fact that lends to a living experience nothing short of world-class.

William D. Ray and his wife Beverly adored their former beach home that was filled with light and love. Upon reflecting on the estate, Beverly related that she was proud to honor her husband through Big Brothers Big Sisters with such a precious gift; “It was his first real home and my greatest treasure, the house of our dreams,” stated Beverly. “I hope it will serve the highest purpose, one Bill would have been part of, making a young man’s life much better and more meaningful.” The proceeds of the home and Meital’s commission hold a promising outlook in the life of the nonprofit organization, securing a financial future for Big Brothers Big Sisters as it continuously expands its program to support more youth in Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

In order to get the highest sale price possible for the estate, Meital utilized her specialized marketing techniques and exclusive First Team luxury affiliates to attract qualified buyers before the home even went on the market. First Team president Michael Mahon praised Meital’s donation in addition to her real estate expertise, saying, “At First Team, we firmly believe that the commitment to helping others succeed and thrive is what strengthens the communities we call home. As Southern California’s #1 Independent Real Estate Brokerage, we are fully committed to growing in a way that will keep us mindful of how we can better serve our agents, their clients and our fellow neighbors.”