California dreams turn to ash

A palatial California abode with breathtaking ocean views was just “one signature away” from being sold for nearly $10 million when it was gutted by the Laguna Beach wildfire this week, according to its real estate agent.

The mansion’s owner was abroad at the time — and watched helplessly as security cameras showed the property being destroyed (pictured).

The 10,000-square-foot pad — known as the crown jewel of a luxury gated neighborhood in Laguna Niguel — “burnt to a crisp” as the wind-fueled brush fire ripped through the ritzy region, according to the listing agent.

“It’s a very special property. You cannot duplicate that home,” said real estate agent Leo Goldschwartz. “The house had separate wings. The adults went one way, the kids went another way . . . It was like a palace. The house was a really beautiful home. The finishes were impressive.”

The custom-built house, on the top of a ridge in the Coronado Pointe neighborhood, had a pool and canyonside twin wings overlooking the beach. Built in 1999, it was designed by a French architect with feng shui values and likely the priciest home in the gated community.

At least 11 homes were damaged and 20 destroyed by the fast-moving wildfire that overtook the tony area Wednesday, fire officials said.