537 Chester St, Oakland, California 94607, Oakland, 94607 - bed, bath
537 Chester St
Oakland, California 94607
Property Price
SUMMARY
Analysis of 537 Chester St, Oakland, California 94607 is currently available with a list price of $675,000. The property maintains a Fair Condition Rating (50/100), suggesting the property is in acceptable condition with potential for value enhancement through selective updates and improvements. Located in a high-demand neighborhood within the Oakland Unified School District, this asset is categorized as a low-risk, high-reward acquisition suitable for both Buy-and-Hold Investors and Owner-Occupants willing to undertake light renovation work.
Condition Analysis
OVERALL CONDITION SCORE
Property is moderate renovation needed.
The property, built in 1885, is very old. While one unit features a recently updated kitchen with new-looking light wood cabinets, granite-look countertops, stainless steel appliances (refrigerator, gas range, hood), and new laminate flooring, these appear to be budget-friendly cosmetic updates rather than a comprehensive, high-end renovation. There are no images of the bathrooms, and crucial information regarding the condition and age of major systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) for the entire duplex is missing. Given the property's age, it's highly likely that many major components are functional but outdated, requiring ongoing maintenance or future upgrades. The visible updates make one unit move-in ready, but the overall age and unknown status of critical infrastructure prevent a 'Good' rating.
PROSSTRENGTHS & OPPORTUNITIES
- Prime Transit-Oriented Location
Directly across from West Oakland BART Station, offering a 15-minute commute to SF Financial District and excellent connectivity throughout the Bay Area, supported by high Walk, Transit, and Bike Scores.
- Investment & Owner-User Flexibility
As a duplex with one unit delivered vacant, it presents an ideal opportunity for an owner-occupant to generate rental income or for a pure investor to maximize returns.
- ADU Development Potential
The oversized 3,125 SqFt lot provides significant space and potential for future Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) development, enhancing long-term value and income streams.
CONSRISKS & DEFICIENCIES
- Age of Property
Built in 1885, the property likely features older infrastructure and systems, which may require significant maintenance, upgrades, or renovations in the near future.
- ADU Verification Required
While ADU potential is highlighted, the 'buyer to verify' clause indicates that the feasibility, permitting, and associated costs are not confirmed, requiring extensive due diligence from the buyer.
- Limited Information on Second Unit
The description primarily details the vacant unit, leaving the condition, layout, and current rental status or lease terms of the second unit unspecified, which could be a point of uncertainty for potential investors.
About 537 Chester St
-One Unit Delivered Vacant – Perfect for an owner user or any investor | -Oversized 3,125 SqFt lot – Room for ADU’s | -Directly Across the Street from West Oakland BART Station – 15 minute commute to SF Financial District and connectivity to the entire Bay Area | 81 Walk Score (Very Walkable) | 67 Transit Score (Good Transit) | 96 Bike Score (Biker’s Paradise) This well-located duplex presents an excellent investment or owner-user opportunity, with attractive seller financing terms available. One unit will be delivered vacant, offering two spacious bedrooms, one bathroom, a dedicated laundry room, and an open-concept kitchen and living area. Situated on an oversized lot, the property offers ample space and potential for future ADU development (buyer to verify). Ideally located directly across from the West Oakland BART Station, this property provides unbeatable access to downtown Oakland, San Francisco, and the greater Bay Area — perfect for commuters and tenants alike.
Property Details
Public Facts
- Property Type
- Duplex
- Year Built
- 1885
- Lot Size
- 3,125 Sq. Ft.
Interior
- Total Bedrooms
- -
- Total Bathrooms
- -
Exterior & Parking
No exterior & parking available.
Utilities & Misc
- HOA Fee
- $0 / Month
Neighborhood Insights
Oakland Unified Schools
Preparatory Literary Academy Of Cultural Excellence
Grades K-5 • 0.2 mi
Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School
Grades PK-3 • 0.7 mi
West Oakland Middle School
Grades 6-8 • 0.8 mi
Sensitive Facilities
No sensitive facilities data found.
Neighborhood Comparison
| Feature | Subject | Average Home | Neighborhood Ranking (50 Listings) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beds | - | - | 50% |
| Baths | - | - | 50% |
| Square foot | - | - | 50% |
| Lot Size | 3,125 | 3,275 | 38% |
| Price | $675.0K | $750.0K | 25% |
| Price per sq ft | $0 | $0 | 50% |
| Built year | 1885 | 1905 | 13% |
| HOA | $0 | $0 | 50% |
| Days on market | 243 | 218 | 75% |
Pricing History
Listed for Sale
Sep 16, 2025
$675,000
Initial Listing
Price Change
Jul 8, 2025
$695,000
Initial Listing