Let's Ask Katie - November 2025

Let’s Ask Katie - Thanksgiving Edition!

Expert Advice for all your Real Estate questions from Katie Machoskie

Hi Katie, 

We love reading your column every month. Knowing that you’re a So Cal native and longtime OC resident, what are you most thankful for when you think back on life in the OC?

Grace, Newport Beach

Hello Grace, 

What a lovely question! The quick answer is family, friends, good health for my family, spectacular weather, our beaches, and the sunsets I enjoy every night from my backyard. From a real estate perspective, I often talk with my clients about “living yield,” which are the intangible benefits and aspects of a particular home. Everyone has a different wish list for what intangible benefit they will experience living in their home. Some may hope for peace, tranquility and a home that is an escape from the world. Some may want a place where they can commune with nature, or feel the heartbeat of a major city where they’ll have access to a cross section of cultures, art, dining, and business. Others will hope for a sense of community, activities, and neighbors who turn into friends. For me, my home is full of memories of raising our children and connecting with friends. It’s also my quiet place where I recharge from my hectic worklife. I once explained to a client, “I love to go to the party, but come home to my sanctuary.” 

Community is very important to me. Living in a supportive and vibrant environment has significantly enriched my life. My husband and I always say, “there’s nothing like a great neighbor.”  We are lucky to live in a neighborhood, where people feel safe, say hello to one another on walks, or come over for dinner. We often put a bottle of wine in my bike basket and pedal over to a neighbor’s house to watch a football game or just catch up after a busy work week. We’ve made lifelong friends through our children' s schools, sports and friendships. A supportive community builds lasting relationships, provides  emotional support and a sense of security. During Thanksgiving and the holidays, I love when our community spirit grows as neighbors come together to celebrate and express gratitude for one another.

I’m grateful for our Newport Beach community which offers countless benefits, from our first responders who keep us safe, to a network of people who look out for each other. I’m proud of the charitable, kind hearts in our community as well. All around you this month you’ll see people hosting events and projects that bring residents together to help others, and events that allow residents to give back and express gratitude together. If you’d like a list of volunteer opportunities, go to https://www.oneoc.org for some ideas of how you can support your community.  

Happy Thanksgiving!