20121 Highway 76, Pauma Valley, California 92061, Pauma Valley, - bed, bath

home-pic
ACTIVE$1,799,000
20121 Highway 76, Pauma Valley, California 92061
5Beds
5Baths
5,469Sqft
78,844Lot
Year Built
1993
Close
-
List price
$1.8M
Original List price
$2M
Price/Sqft
-
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
25561313
Home ConditionExcellent
Features
Good View: Canyon, Hills, Mountain(s), Trees/Woods
Pool
Patio
ViewCanyon, Hills, Mountain(s), Trees/Woods

About this home

Discover the grandeur of the historic Mendenhall Estate, a fully restored and expanded home with Gold Rush-era roots located at the base of Palomar Mountain. Originally settled in 1879 as part of the Rancho Cuca Mexican land, this custom home features interior design elements that reflect the decor of the early 1900s. Once home to the Mendenhall cattle ranching family, the estate beautifully blends California history with modern luxury. Spanning 5,469 square feet and nestled on 1.81 acres, the property includes 5 bedrooms/5 bathrooms. The home has been completely remodeled and restored to its former glory, featuring top-of-the-line finishes throughout, including dazzling K9 crystal accents on chandeliers, doorknobs, and even hot/cold shower handles. Bathrooms feature Bluetooth-enabled sound systems and ambient overhead lighting with customizable color settings, bringing spa-like comfort into everyday living. In the upstairs primary suite, custom wall sconces add a warm, designer touch to both the bedroom and bath, elevating the ambiance and craftsmanship throughout. The poured concrete walls provide insulation and tranquility, while tons of windows offer an abundance of natural light and stunning mountain views. The main level features Brazilian travertine floors, 3 bedrooms (with a primary en-suite), 2 bathrooms, an office, a sunroom, 2 fireplaces, and direct access to the thermal-pane heated pool and a yard inspired by English gardens. The chef's kitchen impresses with natural quartzite countertops and premium appliances, including Miele, Bosch, Fisher Paykel, and appliance garages. Additionally, there is a spacious secondary kitchen that offers ample counter space for food preparation with plenty of cabinets for storage. The newly permitted top floor offers 1,752 square feet of living space, which includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a loft area. It features beautiful cedar ceilings and luxurious Italian marble vanities, and the flooring is luxury vinyl planks that are waterproof. The remodeled upstairs has a primary suite that boasts a spacious bathroom with a jetted tub, set in a custom-designed alcove. Additionally, there are roomy his-and-her walk-in closets that allow for personalized storage solutions. Plus, in the closet, you'll also find washer-dryer hookups along with space for a folding table. The primary bedroom is generously sized and showcases an antique stained-glass window from a church dating back to the 1800s. This top floor has its own dedicated water heater, ensuring instant hot water through a recirculating line to the guest bathroom. Additionally, the primary bedroom is equipped with a beverage refrigerator and a marble-topped coffee bar. All toilets throughout the home are from the Toto brand. The 605 square foot finished walkout basement comprises a living space, a bathroom, laundry facilities, 4 windows, AC/heating, and a private entry. There are two staircases on each side of the house to access the upper quarters. Other features include plantation shutters, coffered ceilings, and a French Empire Crystal Chandelier. The estate also features 55 paid-for and owned solar panels and a producing well that sources Palomar Mountain spring water. No more high utility bills! All these provide an eco-efficient estate living. Additional highlights include a new septic system installed in 2025 (with a 1,500-gallon tank and 150 feet of additional leech lines), a newer 3D Corning roof & Designer gutters that consist of custom copper-colored seamless gutters, including leaf guards, and antique downspouts. The upstairs has a new advanced HVAC system with 3 new split systems. The property is adorned with numerous fruit-bearing trees and includes an antique 40-foot Fruehauf trailer for storage. There is also an RV dump station. This estate is a rare and luxurious blend of history and modern convenience, awaiting a discerning buyer. It offers both seclusion and convenience. Enjoy the crisp mountain air, s

Price History

Date
Event
Price
10/28/25
Price Change
$1,799,000
07/08/25
Listing
$1,995,000
Neighborhood Comparison

 SubjectAverage HomeNeighbourhood Ranking (10 Listings)
Beds53
91%
Baths53
82%
Square foot5,4692,814
91%
Lot Size78,84420,909
64%
Price$1.8M$965K
82%
Price per square foot$329$374
36%
Built year19931982
64%
HOA$550
Days on market120130
45%
Condition Rating
Excellent

Despite being built in 1993, this property has undergone a 'complete remodel and restoration' with a 'newly permitted top floor' and extensive, high-end upgrades. The description details 'top-of-the-line finishes,' a chef's kitchen with premium Miele, Bosch, and Fisher Paykel appliances, natural quartzite countertops, and luxurious bathrooms featuring Italian marble, K9 crystal accents, Bluetooth sound systems, and Toto toilets. Major systems like the HVAC and roof are new or newer, and a new septic system is planned for 2025. The images confirm modern, pristine conditions throughout, especially in the bathrooms, showcasing contemporary design and high-quality materials. This extensive and recent renovation brings the property's condition to that of a virtually new home, meeting current quality standards with no deferred maintenance.
Pros & Cons

Pros

Historical Significance & Meticulous Restoration: The property is a fully restored historic Mendenhall Estate, blending Gold Rush-era roots with modern luxury, offering a unique and grand living experience.
Extensive High-End Renovations: Features top-of-the-line finishes, premium appliances (Miele, Bosch, Fisher Paykel), K9 crystal accents, Bluetooth-enabled bathrooms, and custom designer touches throughout.
Eco-Friendly & Cost-Saving Features: Equipped with 55 owned solar panels and a producing well for Palomar Mountain spring water, significantly reducing utility costs and promoting sustainable living.
Spacious & Versatile Living Spaces: Boasts 5,469 sqft with 5 beds/5 baths, including a newly permitted top floor and a finished walkout basement with private entry, offering multi-generational living potential or income opportunities.
Luxurious Outdoor Amenities & Views: Features a thermal-pane heated pool, English-inspired gardens, fruit-bearing trees, and stunning mountain views, providing an exceptional outdoor living environment.

Cons

Secluded Location: Situated at the base of Palomar Mountain, the property offers seclusion which may be a drawback for buyers seeking closer proximity to urban centers, schools, or extensive local amenities.
Niche Aesthetic Appeal: The blend of Gold Rush-era decor, specific historical elements like antique stained glass, and opulent K9 crystal accents, while high-end, may cater to a niche buyer market, potentially limiting broad appeal.
High Maintenance Requirements: The expansive 1.81-acre lot, English gardens, heated pool, and large estate size suggest significant ongoing maintenance and upkeep, which could be a consideration for potential buyers.

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