On November 17, 2025, a significant real estate transaction took place in Southern California, marking a noteworthy step in the region’s residential development. Meritage Homes Corporation, a prominent homebuilder, acquired the former campus of the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) in Costa Mesa, Orange County, for $44.5 million. The purchase is part of a broader strategy to expand residential development in the area, reflecting ongoing demand for housing in one of the most sought-after regions in the United States.
The TBN site, which spans several acres, is now slated for redevelopment into new housing. This move signals the continued interest in residential infill projects in Southern California, even in the face of a more challenging macroeconomic environment. With rising affordability concerns and mortgage-rate pressures, it might seem counterintuitive for real estate development to remain so robust, but experts say the transaction underscores the region’s enduring appeal and the growing demand for residential space.
This acquisition highlights two key trends in the Southern California real estate market. First, it illustrates the shift of institutional land holdings toward housing-friendly uses, as commercial or non-residential sites are increasingly repurposed for residential development. Second, it emphasizes the ongoing appetite for development in high-demand areas like Southern California, despite the economic headwinds that have created uncertainty in other regions of the country. While some sectors of the economy have seen slowdowns, Southern California remains a hotspot for real estate activity, driven by its desirable location, climate, and economic opportunities.
The Costa Mesa acquisition is just one example of a broader trend unfolding across Southern California in 2025. Despite the challenges of a tighter housing market, transaction volumes are rising, and inventories remain constrained. This limited supply, combined with stabilized pricing, is creating a dynamic market where prime-location properties continue to trigger significant interest from buyers, sellers, and investors alike.
For those looking to the future of residential development in mature coastal communities, the Costa Mesa land deal offers important insight. The prime location of the TBN site in the heart of Orange County positions it well to meet the demand for new housing in a region where space is at a premium. As Meritage Homes moves forward with its plans to redevelop the site, the deal underscores the potential for continued growth in Southern California’s residential real estate market, especially in sought-after areas where housing supply is limited.
In conclusion, the acquisition of the Trinity Broadcasting Network campus in Costa Mesa by Meritage Homes is a significant development in the Southern California real estate landscape. It reflects broader trends in land use, housing demand, and the continued strength of the region’s residential market, even amid economic challenges. This transaction serves as a reminder that prime-location properties in Southern California remain valuable, with potential for continued growth and the creation of much-needed new housing.
