Brought to California in 1983 as a teenager escaping the war in Lebanon, Elio Khalife's journey led him to the shores of South Bay Southern California, eventually culminating in a life filled with success, adventure, and newfound friendships on Lido Isle.

 

Elio's journey began at El Camino College, where he spent two years dedicated to his education. He later enrolled at UC Irvine and graduated in 1988 with a Bachelor's degree in Economics. During this time, Elio would drive around the picturesque neighborhood of Lido Isle and dream of one day calling it home. Little did he know that years later, that dream would become a reality.

 

Fast forward to Elio’s purchase of a condo in Huntington Beach many years later. Elio and his wife, Janna, often gathered with friends who lived on Lido Isle and persistently encouraged them to sell and move to the island. The couple would often stroll the island with their friends and instantly fell in love with the area. One day a friend called Elio to let him know he had stumbled upon a home for sale on Lido. They contacted the agent and decided to take the leap. In a twist of fate, they arranged a trade with their Huntington Beach property, allowing them to make Lido Isle their new home in June of 2020.

 

Both Elio and Janna agree that their decision to move to Lido Isle has proven to be one of the best choices they've ever made. Today, they split their time between Lido Isle and Scottsdale, Arizona, often dubbing Lido as a blend of the South of France and the South of Italy. They've successfully convinced several friends to make Lido Isle their new home, thanks to its charm and the strong sense of community it offers.

 

One of the Khalife’s favorite parts about Lido is the abundance of opportunities for walking and exploring. Several times a day, Elio and Janna walk around the island, admiring the ongoing construction of exquisite homes, lush greenery, and the variety of architectural styles. Perhaps the most cherished aspect of Lido is the sense of community. According to Elio, “Since moving to Lido, we have met so many wonderful neighbors which is by far our favorite part of Lido living. We live around some of the most amazing established neighbors that have become great and dear friends to us.”

 

In addition to their leisurely island strolls, the couple loves going out on the Duffy to cruise the harbor and also enjoys exploring a variety of amazing restaurants with both old and new friends. They recently joined the Elwood Club at the Pendry Hotel, establishing new friendships and business opportunities.

 

Though they were initially content exploring their new coastal paradise, traveling has become a favorite hobby for the couple. This past year they traveled back to Elio's hometown of Beirut, Lebanon. “It was Janna’s first time, and she fell absolutely in love with it, the people, the culture, the food, the nightlife,” explains Elio. “It will be a place we will start going back to every summer as I own two chalets there and my mother, sister and brother-in-law are there, as well as many friends I grew up with.”

 

Family plays a significant role in their lives. Elio has two adult sons from a previous marriage, Andrew (28) and Matthew (26), and a granddaughter named Melody. The joy of having Melody visit Newport Beach in the summer is a cherished moment for both Elio and Janna. Janna also has a son named Hunter (25). They all live in Scottsdale, Arizona and love visiting Newport Beach in the summer.

 

Elio's professional journey is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. After completing his education, he began consulting for Southern California Savings banks, eventually establishing his own company, which he has successfully managed for over 35 years. His journey led him into the retail end of commercial real estate, at one point representing over 28 National Tenants.

 

Janna also boasts an extensive career in the world of real estate and mortgage lending. With licenses in both fields, she recently joined Elio's company to oversee financial components, leases, contracts, compliance, and research and development. Together, they complement each other perfectly, with Elio's expert negotiation skills and ability to forge friendships, and Janna's financial acumen.

 

Elio and Janna met six years ago when Janna rented one of Elio's properties in Scottsdale. They went on one date and have been together ever since. They were married in October at the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach.

 

While Elio and Janna have been deeply involved in the Scottsdale community, they are excited to discover new opportunities for community involvement in Lido Isle and Newport Beach. And they look forward to meeting and getting to know as may of their Lido neighbors as possible.