14 Belle Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901, San Rafael, 94901 - 4 bed, 3 bath

14 Belle Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901 home-pic-0
ACTIVE$1,150,000$1,356/sqft
Est. Value: $1,150,000
%
FairlyEstimate
14 Belle Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901
4Beds
3Baths
1,356Sqft
10,842Lot

Price Vs. Estimate

The estimated value ($1,150,000) is $0 (0%) lower than the list price ($1,150,000). This property may be overpriced.

Key pros and cons

Top Pros:
High Available Lot Utilization: The property has a large lot size, which is more than 4 times of its living area. lot size in square feet = 10842, living area = 1356.
Top Cons:
Age of Main Residence & Potential Updates: Built in 1941, the main residence, while charming, may require updates to major systems (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, electrical) that are not explicitly mentioned as new, potentially incurring future costs.

Compared to the nearby listings

Price:$1.15M vs avg $1.39M ($-237,000)35%
Size:1,356 sqft vs avg 2,066 sqft14%
Price/sqft:$848 vs avg $73974%

More Insights

Built in 1941 (85 years old).
Condition: The main residence, built in 1941, exhibits a 'retro-style' with original character, including hardwood floors. While clean and well-maintained, the kitchen features dated tile countertops and backsplash, and one bathroom (in the downstairs suite) has very old pink fixtures. The main bathroom is updated but with a classic, not modern, aesthetic (e.g., pink wallpaper). The detached studio cottage, however, has been extensively renovated with a new modern bathroom, new appliances, and new floors. The overall condition is a blend, but the dated kitchen and one bathroom in the main house pull the property into the 'Fair' category, as they would likely require substantial updates for modern tastes, despite the cottage's excellent condition.
Year Built
1941
Close
-
List price
$1.15M
Original List price
-
Price/Sqft
$848
HOA
$0
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
ML82026426
Home ConditionFair
Features
Good View:
Patio
View-

About this home

Welcome to 14 Belle Avenue, a cheerful, bright retro-style gem located in the highly desirable Dominican neighborhood, an enclave known for its charming older homes, walkable streets, and close proximity to shopping and amenities. This unique property features a main residence with 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, including a versatile downstairs suite with its own private entrance, ideal for guests, a home office, or potential rental income. The home is filled with original character, including warm hardwood floors, custom built-ins and a cozy fireplace. The backyard is a peaceful retreat with mature landscaping and space to relax or entertain. Adding even more value is the legal detached studio cottage, an enchanted hideaway which offers a bright and airy living space on a sunny lot. All new modern bathroom, refrigerator, and microwave. Well-lit kitchen and walk-in closet. Fresh paint throughout with new floors. Your own front yard/garden area for outdoor enjoyment; sunny, private, and surrounded by stepping stones and greenery. The cottage is currently leased to a reliable tenant, offering steady income and potential qualification support for buyers. With charm, flexibility, and built-in value, 14 Belle Avenue is a rare opportunity in one of San Rafaels most beloved neighborhoods.

C
Carol Pefley
Listing Agent
Condition Rating
Fair

The main residence, built in 1941, exhibits a 'retro-style' with original character, including hardwood floors. While clean and well-maintained, the kitchen features dated tile countertops and backsplash, and one bathroom (in the downstairs suite) has very old pink fixtures. The main bathroom is updated but with a classic, not modern, aesthetic (e.g., pink wallpaper). The detached studio cottage, however, has been extensively renovated with a new modern bathroom, new appliances, and new floors. The overall condition is a blend, but the dated kitchen and one bathroom in the main house pull the property into the 'Fair' category, as they would likely require substantial updates for modern tastes, despite the cottage's excellent condition.
Pros & Cons

Pros

High Available Lot Utilization: The property has a large lot size, which is more than 4 times of its living area. lot size in square feet = 10842, living area = 1356.
Income-Generating Legal ADU: The property includes a legal detached studio cottage, currently leased to a reliable tenant, providing immediate rental income and potential support for buyer qualification.
Highly Desirable Location: Situated in the sought-after Dominican neighborhood, known for its charming older homes, walkable streets, and close proximity to shopping and amenities in San Rafael.
Versatile Living Arrangements: The main residence features a downstairs suite with a private entrance, offering flexibility for guests, a home office, or additional rental income potential.
Charming Original Character: The main home retains desirable original features such as warm hardwood floors, custom built-ins, and a cozy fireplace, appealing to buyers seeking unique character.
Generous Outdoor Space: A substantial 10,842 sqft lot provides a peaceful backyard retreat with mature landscaping and a private garden area for the cottage, enhancing outdoor living.

Cons

Age of Main Residence & Potential Updates: Built in 1941, the main residence, while charming, may require updates to major systems (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, electrical) that are not explicitly mentioned as new, potentially incurring future costs.
Modest Combined Square Footage: The total living space of 1356 sqft for a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom property (including the cottage) suggests the main residence itself may offer a more compact living area than some buyers might expect for the price point.
Retro-Style May Limit Appeal: While celebrated for its character, the 'retro-style' of the main home might not appeal to all buyers who prefer contemporary aesthetics, potentially narrowing the market without further modernization.
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