Relaxed livability for the discerning buyer

The sprawling estate at 5449 La Granada, offering “classic elegance situated at the heart of historic Rancho Santa Fe Covenant,” has 9 bedrooms and 12 baths spread across more than 11,400 square feet of living space in San Diego’s toniest enclave.

“This classic jewel blends true elegance and relaxed livability for the discerning buyer,” promise listing materials. “Beautiful details abound within this estate poised amid a fragrant setting of Paradise Palms, white roses, jasmine, lavender and eucalyptus.”

Inside, “inspired details and luxury comforts include hand carved Buemierre stone fireplaces, forged old-world iron works and fixtures, imported Albertini walnut windows, distressed walnut floors, artisan open beam and groin vault ceilings, arched passages” and “French Tradition cabinetry and authentic Kiback tile accents throughout.”

A “spacious chef and entertainers’ kitchen” features two granite-topped islands and restaurant-quality appliances, while a “climate controlled wine room” has display space for nearly 800 bottles.

Other interior features include a “generous executive office with wet bar” and a “master retreat featuring a mini kitchen/wet bar, sauna, and steam amenities.” In addition to the 500-square-foot master, all of the extra bedrooms are full suites with private baths, and the mansion features “full home audio, smart controls” and a “well-appointed guest residence.” Don’t forget the billiards room and an “exercise/hot yoga room,” making for “an exemplary estate where nothing has been overlooked.”

A 340-square-foot covered loggia with fireplace, brick-lined courtyard with center fountain beckon residents and guests outside to the pool area with sun deck, dining patio, and outdoor kitchen. Other outdoor entertainment areas overlook the manicured grounds, golf courses, and “picturesque vistas.”

“This light-filled custom property provides an unparalleled sense of wholeness and undivided warmth for family and guests,” while still being within “walking distance to the village, the RENOWNED R. Roger Rowe K-8 school, shopping, restaurants, and golf club.”

La Granada estate was last sold on the open market in 1999 to Monica C. Haynes for just over $1.3 million, though listing materials indicate the current home was constructed in 2006. Tax rolls indicate the home was built in 1960 and is more than 1500 square feet smaller than listed, indicating a major remodel has likely taken place in recent years.

Several off-market transfers over the years have landed ownership with an entity in the name of Popcorn Tree Family. During that time, Haynes became Monica C. Fraser, spouse of Scott S. Fraser, an SDSU grad and marketer of yoga, aromatherapy, and sex-lube supplements under the name Empowered Products. The popcorn tree appears to refer to Chinese tallow, a plant used for candle and soap-making and believed to have medicinal properties.

The home was listed for sale with a $6 million asking price in 2012. After attracting no buyers, the property went off-market in late 2013. It appeared again in 2014 with a similar price but again did not receive an offer sufficient to complete a sale. It was most recently listed for sale in late May with an asking price of $9.2 million that remains unchanged to date.