P
hil Immel, the long‑time Orange County broker dubbed the “King of Monarch Bay,” passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Nov. 12, surrounded by family. His son, Ryan, shared the news on social media, noting that Immel was 70 and that no cause of death was disclosed.

    Immel’s career spanned five decades, during which he sold roughly 90 % of the oceanfront homes in Dana Point’s upscale Monarch Bay. A highlight was the blufftop property that sold to former entertainment investor Gordy Crawford in March 2022 for $33 million, setting a city record at the time.

    Ryan posted a heartfelt tribute, including photos that showcased Immel as a professional, a devoted father, and a playful man. He reflected on his father’s journey from a difficult childhood in Chicago to building a remarkable life in Orange County for his family, including his adult children Torie and Blake.

    Ryan and Blake had worked alongside their father at Immel Team Luxury Real Estate, a firm he founded in 2014 at Monarch Bay Plaza. The brokerage was acquired by Sotheby’s International Real Estate in 2018, expanding the brand into Palm Springs, Orange County, and San Diego under Pacific Sotheby’s.

    Martha Mosier, president of Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, described Immel as “a true force” who earned admiration from clients and peers alike. She praised his dedication to mentoring, kindness, and professionalism, noting he would be deeply missed as a cornerstone of the real estate community.

    Immel earned his broker license at 19 while studying real estate and marketing at San Diego State University. He served as an in‑house consultant and executive director for Coldwell Banker’s national headquarters before joining Prudential California Realty, where he was the top agent in Orange County from 1999 to 2008 and ranked eighth nationwide in sales volume in 2004. He received Prudential’s “Legend” Award in 2011.

    Later, he became broker associate and luxury director at the Immel Team. Beyond his agency work, Immel was a sought‑after expert on national news programs, radio, and print, and he shared his insights on www.RealEstateGuru.com.

    Ryan emphasized that his father “gave his all to everything he did” and was a true pillar in the community, inspiring those around him daily. The family will announce a celebration of life at a later date.