201 Orange Grove Avenue, South Pasadena, California 91030, South Pasadena, 91030 - 7 bed, 8 bath

201 Orange Grove Avenue, South Pasadena, California 91030 home-pic-0
ACTIVE$3,499,000
201 Orange Grove Avenue, South Pasadena, California 91030
7Beds
8Baths
5,535Sqft
2,572,654Lot

Price Vs. Estimate

Estimation data not available

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 = 2572654, living area = 5535.
Top Cons:
As-Is Condition & Significant Investment: Sold in 'as-is' condition, requiring substantial restoration, updates, and modern improvements, which will entail considerable financial and time investment from the buyer.

Compared to the nearby listings

Price:$3.50M vs avg $2.14M (+$1,357,000)89%
Size:5,535 sqft vs avg 2,130 sqft97%
Price/sqft:$632 vs avg $9952%

More Insights

Built in 1887 (138 years old).
Condition: This historic estate, built in 1887, is explicitly offered in 'as-is condition' and presents a 'remarkable restoration opportunity,' requiring 'substantial restoration, updates, and modern improvements.' The kitchen features extremely dated appliances (old commercial-style range, electric cooktop in pantry), worn cream-colored cabinets, basic countertops, and dated lighting. The black and white hexagonal tile flooring is classic for the era but not modern. Bathrooms, while potentially featuring historic 'Edwardian clawfoot tubs,' are also very dated and require full renovation. The property's age implies 'age-related maintenance & systems' issues, including 'potentially outdated systems (e.g., plumbing, electrical),' which aligns with the need for substantial repairs and rehabilitation rather than minor updates. While the structure has historic charm, its functional components are in poor condition, necessitating significant investment to meet modern living standards.
Year Built
1887
Close
-
List price
$3.5M
Original List price
$3.95M
Price/Sqft
$632
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
SR25200378
Home ConditionPoor
Features
Pool
Patio
ViewCity Lights,Neighborhood

About this home

Historic Estate Victorian Home! Step into South Pasadena’s storied past at The Bissell House, a Queen Anne Victorian estate built in 1887 on an expansive half-acre corner lot along the city’s prestigious Millionaire’s Row. This iconic historic property spans 5,535 sq. ft. across three stately levels and features 7 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, plus a separate pool house and two-car garage.Once home to Anna Bissell McCay, daughter of the famed Bissell vacuum family, and her husband William S. McCay, an architect, this residence is steeped in Pasadena history and architectural artistry. Signature details include Tiffany stained-glass windows, Edwardian clawfoot tubs, ornate woodwork, and a rare Sedgwick elevator, all speaking to the home’s craftsmanship and legacy. While the estate retains its timeless charm, it is being offered in as-is condition and presents a remarkable restoration opportunity. With updates, and modern improvements, this property is ideal for a visionary buyer seeking to restore, reimagine, or reinvent a true architectural treasure. Formerly operated as a bed-and-breakfast and wedding venue, the Bissell House offers income potential or the chance to create a one-of-a-kind private residence. Surrounded by lush gardens, mature trees, and historic character, this home sits near Old Town Pasadena, the Pasadena Convention Center, and the Rose Parade starting point—providing both heritage and location appeal. Experience the magic of Pasadena’s past while shaping its next chapter with this rare historic estate on a generous lot, awaiting its next steward.

Condition Rating
Poor

This historic estate, built in 1887, is explicitly offered in 'as-is condition' and presents a 'remarkable restoration opportunity,' requiring 'substantial restoration, updates, and modern improvements.' The kitchen features extremely dated appliances (old commercial-style range, electric cooktop in pantry), worn cream-colored cabinets, basic countertops, and dated lighting. The black and white hexagonal tile flooring is classic for the era but not modern. Bathrooms, while potentially featuring historic 'Edwardian clawfoot tubs,' are also very dated and require full renovation. The property's age implies 'age-related maintenance & systems' issues, including 'potentially outdated systems (e.g., plumbing, electrical),' which aligns with the need for substantial repairs and rehabilitation rather than minor updates. While the structure has historic charm, its functional components are in poor condition, necessitating significant investment to meet modern living standards.
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 = 2572654, living area = 5535.
Historic Grandeur & Architectural Detail: A Queen Anne Victorian estate from 1887, 'The Bissell House,' featuring Tiffany stained-glass, ornate woodwork, and a rare Sedgwick elevator, preserving significant architectural heritage.
Prestigious Location: Situated on South Pasadena's 'Millionaire's Row,' offering proximity to Old Town Pasadena, the Convention Center, and the Rose Parade starting point, enhancing desirability and value.
Income & Versatility Potential: Previously a bed-and-breakfast and wedding venue, the property offers significant income-generating potential or the flexibility to be a unique, grand private residence.
Substantial Size & Amenities: An expansive 5,535 sq. ft. estate with 7 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, a separate pool house, two-car garage, and a generous half-acre corner lot.
Restoration & Customization Opportunity: Presents a unique chance for a visionary buyer to restore, update, and personalize a historic architectural treasure, adding significant value.

Cons

As-Is Condition & Significant Investment: Sold in 'as-is' condition, requiring substantial restoration, updates, and modern improvements, which will entail considerable financial and time investment from the buyer.
Age-Related Maintenance & Systems: As a property built in 1887, it likely comes with inherent challenges related to aging infrastructure, potentially outdated systems (e.g., plumbing, electrical), and higher ongoing maintenance costs.
Recent Price Reduction: A notable price drop from $3.95M to $3.499M indicates potential market resistance to the initial asking price, possibly due to the required restoration work or overall market conditions.

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