438 N Martel Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90036, Los Angeles, 90036 - 3 bed, 2 bath
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438 N Martel Avenue
Los Angeles, California 90036
ACTIVE UNDER CONTRACT
CONDITION: FAIR
3Beds
2Baths
1,855Sq Ft
8,215Lot Size
Property Price
LIST PRICE$1,849,000
EST. MARKET VALUE
$1,875,658
SUMMARY
This Spanish Revival Bungalow represents a Strong Value Opportunity, listed at $1,849,000—positioned well below the $1,875,658 Fair Market Value by 1.4%. This valuation gap offers $26,658 in Instant Equity. With a Condition Rating of 4, the home features well-preserved historic charm but requires modernization to reach its full potential. The expansive 8,215 sqft lot provides significant upside for expansion. Located near top-rated schools like Fairfax Senior High, this property is ideal for Buy-and-Hold Investors or Owner-Occupants seeking a value-add project.
Estimated Market Value
$1,875,658
Based on Realkey algorithm analyzing recent comparable sales in Los Angeles.
Comparable Sales Map
Comparables within 1 miles sold in recently
Map unavailable.
| Address | Sold Price | Beds | Baths | Sq Ft | $/Sqft | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
★ 438 N Martel Avenue Subject | $1,849,000* List Price | 3 | 2 | 1,855 | $1,011 | - |
A 150 N Martel Avenue Sold | $1,900,000 | 3 | 2 | 1,964 | $967 | 0.3 mi |
B 315 N Formosa Avenue Sold | $2,075,000 | 3 | 2 | 1,772 | $1,171 | 0.3 mi |
C 151 N Poinsettia Place Sold | $2,025,000 | 3 | 2 | 2,066 | $980 | 0.3 mi |
D 517 N Stanley Avenue Sold | $1,365,000 | 2 | 1 | 1,504 | $908 | 0.4 mi |
E 143 S Highland Avenue Sold | $1,700,000 | 4 | 2 | 2,381 | $714 | 0.8 mi |
F 637 N Detroit Street Active | $1,599,000 List Price | 3 | 2 | 1,614 | $991 | 0.4 mi |
* Subject property listed price vs sold prices of comps.
Condition Analysis
See Full ReportOVERALL CONDITION SCORE
Fair
TeardownExcellent
Property is moderate renovation needed.
Built in 1929 and held by the same owner for 35 years, the property is well-preserved but dated. The kitchen features older cabinetry and mosaic tile work likely from a 20+ year old renovation, while the bathrooms are explicitly described as 'vintage' with original tiling. The home is functional but requires cosmetic modernization and likely updates to aging systems.
PROSSTRENGTHS & OPPORTUNITIES
- 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 = 8215, living area = 1855.
- Prime Fairfax Location
Situated just blocks from the trendiest spots on Melrose and Beverly Blvd, this property offers an exceptional lifestyle in one of Los Angeles' most walkable and highly sought-after neighborhoods.
- Authentic Architectural Character
This 1929 Spanish Revival bungalow features well-preserved historic details, including iconic front archways, vaulted ceilings, and original terracotta detailing that provide a unique charm and timeless appeal.
CONSRISKS & DEFICIENCIES
- Need for Modernization
On the market for the first time in 35 years and featuring vintage elements like historic tiling, the home likely requires updates to its systems and finishes to meet modern luxury standards.
- Lack of Scenic Views
The property does not offer any significant views, which may be a drawback for buyers seeking the panoramic city or hillside vistas often found in other high-end Los Angeles neighborhoods.
About 438 N Martel Avenue
Charming Spanish Bungalow in the Heart of the Fairfax District! Fall in love with this vibrant Spanish Revival 3+2 home bursting with old-world charm and bright, sun-lit spaces. On the market for the first time in 35 years, the home’s exterior captivates immediately with its iconic front archways, covered porch and beautiful terracotta detailing. Inside, enjoy an expansive living room with vaulted ceilings and gorgeous hardwood floors throughout. Delight in the beautifully preserved vintage bathroom, complete with historic turquoise tiling and a separate tub/shower. The spacious, private grassy backyard offers an incredible space to entertain and includes a detached 2-car garage. All of this is located just blocks from the trendiest spots on Melrose and Beverly Blvd—truly an unmatched location!
Property Details
Public Facts
- Property Type
- Single Family Residence
- Year Built
- 1929
- Lot Size
- 8,215 Sq. Ft.
Interior
- Total Bedrooms
- 3
- Total Bathrooms
- 2 (2 Full, 0 Half)
Exterior & Parking
No exterior & parking available.
Utilities & Misc
- HOA Fee
- $0 / Month
Neighborhood Insights
Los Angeles Unified Schools
Hancock Park Elementary School
Grades K-5 • 0.9 mi
7/10
Third Street Elementary School
Grades K-5 • 1.1 mi
8/10
Vine Street Elementary School
Grades K-6 • 1.5 mi
2/10
Sensitive Facilities
No sensitive facilities data found.
Neighborhood Comparison
| Feature | Subject | Average Home |
|---|---|---|
| Beds | 3.0 | 3.0 |
| Baths | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Square foot | 1,855 | 1,664.159 |
| Lot Size | 8,215 | 6,066.556 |
| Price | $1.85M | $1.35M |
| Price per sq ft | $997 | $806 |
| Built year | 1929 | 1939 |
| HOA | $0 | $278 |
| Days on market | 19 | 55 |
Pricing History
Listed for Sale
Aug 21, 2026
$1,849,000
Initial Listing