1538 Ashby, Berkeley, California 94703, Berkeley, 94703 - 3 bed, 2 bath
ACTIVE$805,000
1538 Ashby, Berkeley, California 94703
3Beds
2Baths
1,228Sqft
3,700Lot
Price Vs. Estimate
The estimated value ($676,873.95) is $128,126.05 (15%) lower than the list price ($805,000). This property may be overpriced.
Key pros and cons
Top Pros:
Prime Berkeley Location: Situated in a desirable Berkeley neighborhood, offering a great location with potential for appreciation and access to local amenities.
Top Cons:
Requires Renovation and Updates: The description explicitly states 'A little TLC, cosmetic work' is needed, indicating the property is not move-in ready and will require additional investment for improvements.
Compared to the nearby listings
Price:$805.0K vs avg $1.50M ($-695,000)8%
Size:1,228 sqft vs avg 1,539.5 sqft29%
Price/sqft:$656 vs avg $81218%
More Insights
Built in 1915 (110 years old).
Condition: Built in 1915, this property is over a century old and explicitly described as needing 'a little TLC, cosmetic work' and having 'amazing potential,' which indicates substantial renovation is required. The kitchen is severely outdated with old cabinets, laminate countertops, and dated tile flooring, necessitating a full remodel. While some flooring appears to be newer laminate, the overall aesthetic is very dated. The presence of a wall heater suggests a lack of central HVAC, a major system deficiency. Given its age and previous use as student housing, it's highly probable that major systems like electrical and plumbing are also outdated and would require significant upgrades for safety and modern comfort. The property is functional but requires substantial repairs and rehabilitation to major components and systems to meet contemporary living standards.
Year Built
1915
Close
-
List price
$805K
Original List price
$825K
Price/Sqft
$656
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
41115473
Home ConditionPoor
Features
Patio
View-
About this home
OPEN HOUSE SATURDAY, 12/13/25, 2PM-4PM. Wonderful property in Berkeley. Great location with amazing potential. Was used as housing for UC students. A little TLC, cosmetic work, and this place is the perfect place to call home. Large kitchen, separate laundry area, private backyard for gardening, BBQ and entertaining.
Nearby schools
6/10
Malcolm X Elementary School
Public,•K-5•0.2mi
1/10
Sankofa Academy
Public,•PK-5•0.8mi
6/10
Leconte Elementary School
Public,•K-5•0.9mi
7/10
Washington Elementary School
Public,•K-5•1.0mi
8/10
Peralta Elementary School
Public,•K-5•1.1mi
7/10
Emerson Elementary School
Public,•K-5•1.5mi
6/10
John Muir Elementary School
Public,•K-5•1.7mi
5/10
Oxford Elementary School
Public,•K-5•2.4mi
7/10
Cragmont Elementary School
Public,•K-5•2.8mi
8/10
Willard Middle School
Public,•6-8•1.1mi
6/10
Claremont Middle School
Public,•6-8•1.5mi
7/10
Martin Luther King Middle School
Public,•6-8•1.9mi
8/10
Berkeley High School
Public,•9-12•1.1mi
2/10
Oakland International High School
Public,•9-12•1.7mi
7/10
Oakland Technical High School
Public,•9-12•2.0mi
2/10
Fremont High
Public,•9-12•6.6mi
Condition Rating
Poor
Built in 1915, this property is over a century old and explicitly described as needing 'a little TLC, cosmetic work' and having 'amazing potential,' which indicates substantial renovation is required. The kitchen is severely outdated with old cabinets, laminate countertops, and dated tile flooring, necessitating a full remodel. While some flooring appears to be newer laminate, the overall aesthetic is very dated. The presence of a wall heater suggests a lack of central HVAC, a major system deficiency. Given its age and previous use as student housing, it's highly probable that major systems like electrical and plumbing are also outdated and would require significant upgrades for safety and modern comfort. The property is functional but requires substantial repairs and rehabilitation to major components and systems to meet contemporary living standards.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Prime Berkeley Location: Situated in a desirable Berkeley neighborhood, offering a great location with potential for appreciation and access to local amenities.
Significant Value-Add Potential: The property is described as having 'amazing potential' and needing 'a little TLC, cosmetic work,' presenting a clear opportunity for buyers to customize and increase equity.
Desirable Functional Spaces: Features a large kitchen, a separate laundry area, and a private backyard suitable for gardening, BBQ, and entertaining, enhancing livability.
Access to Highly-Rated Schools: Located within proximity to well-regarded public schools, including Berkeley High School (rating 8) and Willard Middle School (rating 8), which is attractive to families.
Recent Price Reduction: The listing price has been reduced from $825,000 to $805,000, indicating increased seller motivation and potentially a more attractive entry point for buyers.
Cons
Requires Renovation and Updates: The description explicitly states 'A little TLC, cosmetic work' is needed, indicating the property is not move-in ready and will require additional investment for improvements.
Historic Property Age: Built in 1915, the property is over a century old, which often implies older infrastructure (plumbing, electrical, foundation) that may require significant maintenance or upgrades.
Potential Wear from Student Housing: Its previous use as 'housing for UC students' could suggest increased wear and tear, potential for non-standard modifications, or deferred maintenance that may need addressing.