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2186 Mar Vista Avenue, Altadena, California 91001, Altadena, 91001 - 6 bed, 4 bath

2186 Mar Vista Avenue, Altadena, California 91001 home-pic-0
ACTIVE$2,550,000
2186 Mar Vista Avenue, Altadena, California 91001
6Beds
4Baths
2,811Sqft
15,005Lot

Price Vs. Estimate

The estimated value ($2,492,686.65) is $57,313.35 (2%) lower than the list price ($2,550,000). This property may be overpriced.

Key pros and cons

Top Pros:
Architectural Significance: Designed by acclaimed architect Calvin Straub, this property boasts a unique architectural pedigree, adding significant historical and aesthetic value.
Top Cons:
Age and Renovation Needs: Built in 1922 and held for nearly nine decades, the property likely requires significant investment for restoration, modernization, and potential system upgrades to meet contemporary standards.

Compared to the nearby listings

Price:$2.55M vs avg $1.11M (+$1,435,000)94%
Size:2,811 sqft vs avg 1,582 sqft89%
Price/sqft:$907 vs avg $72285%

More Insights

Built in 1922 (103 years old).
Condition: Built in 1922 and on the market for the first time in nearly nine decades, this property shows significant age and a clear lack of modern renovations. The kitchen features severely outdated cabinets, worn tile countertops, basic lighting, and dated terracotta-style flooring. Other interior spaces exhibit old wood paneling, popcorn ceilings, and worn carpets/tiles. The property description itself highlights 'Age and Renovation Needs' and states it 'likely requires significant investment for restoration, modernization, and potential system upgrades,' indicating substantial repairs and rehabilitation are necessary for major components and overall aesthetic to meet contemporary standards.
Year Built
1922
Close
-
List price
$2.55M
Original List price
$2.55M
Price/Sqft
$907
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
25594685
Home ConditionPoor
Features
Good View: City Lights, Mountain(s), Peek-A-Boo, Trees/Woods
Patio
ViewCity Lights,Mountain(s),Peek-A-Boo,Trees/Woods

About this home

On the market for the first time in nearly nine decades, this rare Altadena property combines architectural pedigree with exceptional potential. Designed by acclaimed architect Calvin Straub, the front residence serves as the centerpiece of a three-structure compound totaling approximately 3,000 square feet. Each building is thoughtfully arranged around a central garden and yard, enhanced by a tranquil pond. From the upper level of the rear residence, enjoy peekaboo views of Downtown Los Angeles on clear days. This distinctive property is not only rich in history and character but also an exceptional investment opportunity. Buyers can choose to restore and enhance the existing compound or reimagine the site with one or two larger residences. Located just moments from Downtown Pasadena, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the Rose Bowl, the property offers a rare blend of heritage, location, and development versatility in a highly desirable area. A rare opportunity to own this property, where history, character, and potential come together in a truly distinguished offering.

Condition Rating
Poor
Built in 1922 and on the market for the first time in nearly nine decades, this property shows significant age and a clear lack of modern renovations. The kitchen features severely outdated cabinets, worn tile countertops, basic lighting, and dated terracotta-style flooring. Other interior spaces exhibit old wood paneling, popcorn ceilings, and worn carpets/tiles. The property description itself highlights 'Age and Renovation Needs' and states it 'likely requires significant investment for restoration, modernization, and potential system upgrades,' indicating substantial repairs and rehabilitation are necessary for major components and overall aesthetic to meet contemporary standards.
Pros & Cons

Pros

Architectural Significance: Designed by acclaimed architect Calvin Straub, this property boasts a unique architectural pedigree, adding significant historical and aesthetic value.
Development Potential & Versatility: The three-structure compound on a generous 15,005 sqft lot offers exceptional flexibility for buyers to restore, enhance, or reimagine the site with one or two larger residences.
Prime Location: Strategically located moments from Downtown Pasadena, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and the Rose Bowl, offering convenience and desirability in a sought-after Altadena neighborhood.
Unique Compound Layout: The thoughtful arrangement of three distinct buildings around a central garden and tranquil pond provides a private, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing living environment.
Historical Rarity: Being on the market for the first time in nearly nine decades, this property offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Altadena's heritage with rich character and long-term ownership appeal.

Cons

Age and Renovation Needs: Built in 1922 and held for nearly nine decades, the property likely requires significant investment for restoration, modernization, and potential system upgrades to meet contemporary standards.
Limited View Quality: While views are present (City Lights, Mountains), the description of 'peekaboo views of Downtown Los Angeles' suggests they are not expansive or a primary selling feature, potentially falling short of expectations for some buyers.
Complex Property Management: A three-structure compound, while versatile, can entail more complex maintenance, insurance, and management requirements compared to a single, unified residence, potentially limiting buyer appeal to those seeking a traditional home.

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