
San Rafael, CA 94901
This Mid-Century Modern Residence is a Strong Value Opportunity, listed at $1,349,000—positioned above the $1,289,122 Fair Market Value. While priced slightly above market, the property offers a Condition Rating of 3, featuring a fully permitted studio apartment, panoramic views, and a large 8,481 sqft lot. The versatile layout provides significant income potential or multi-generational living space. Located near James B. Davidson Middle School, this home balances lifestyle appeal with functional upgrades. It is an ideal acquisition for Buy-and-Hold Investors or Owner-Occupants seeking a unique, income-generating retreat.
Comparables within 1 miles sold in recently
| Address | Sold Price | Beds | Baths | Sq Ft | $/Sqft | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
★ 56 Martens Boulevard Subject | $1,349,000* List Price | 4 | 4 | 1,801 | $716 | - |
A 215 Bungalow Avenue Sold | $1,100,000 | 3 | 2 | 1,764 | $624 | 0.5 mi |
B 35 Hillview Avenue Sold | $1,415,000 | 3 | 4 | 2,012 | $703 | 0.9 mi |
C 141 Irwin Street Sold | $1,410,000 | 3 | 2 | 1,958 | $720 | 1.0 mi |
D 1422 Nye Street Sold | $1,363,000 | 5 | 3 | 2,180 | $625 | 0.8 mi |
E 253 Irwin Street Pending | $1,250,000 List Price | 3 | 2 | 1,551 | $806 | 0.8 mi |
* Subject property listed price vs sold prices of comps.
Property is move-in ready.
Although built in 1952, the property is well-maintained and move-in ready. It features a kitchen with all-new stainless appliances, updated electrical panels, and recent cosmetic upgrades including fresh paint and new carpeting. Bathrooms show previous renovations with stone tiling that remain functional and in good condition.
The property has a large lot size, which is more than 4 times of its living area. lot size in square feet = 8481, living area = 1801.
The inclusion of a fully permitted studio apartment with its own laundry facilities provides significant value for rental income, multi-generational living, or a private home office.
Known as 'Martens Gardens,' the property sits on a lush, street-to-street lot filled with fruit trees and mature foliage, offering a rare level of privacy and a serene retreat atmosphere.
Living area discrepancy between mls listing and other public or private record. mls listing living area = 1801, other record living area = 2644.
Distributing four bedrooms and four bathrooms across 1,801 square feet may result in smaller individual room sizes and a layout that feels constrained for larger families.
The immediate assigned public schools for this location carry average ratings (5/10), which may be a drawback for buyers specifically seeking top-tier educational districts.
Welcome to Martens Gardens,'' a hidden horticultural paradise on the edge of San Rafael's sought-after Gerstle Park neighborhood. 56 Martens Boulevard may sound like a busy thoroughfare, yet it's anything but. This soft gray-painted mid-century modern home sits on a private, street-to-street lot filled with foliage and fruit trees. The home offers three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, plus a fully permitted studio apartment with its own laundry room - great for rental income, guests or a live-in nanny. The main house kitchen offers all-new stainless appliances and loads of wood cabinetry. The dining area opens to a relaxing patio and deck. The expansive living room features a wood-burning fireplace and a balcony for taking in the views of downtown and the hills. Upgrades include fresh paint, new bedroom carpets, designer lighting and newer electrical panels. The garage and two additional driveway spots are accessible from Ivy Lane - a quiet, country road at the base of the property. Your own private retreat, yet steps from Gerstle and Albert parks, the community center, bocce gardens, Pacifics baseball, Trinity preschool, the Panama Hotel (for humans) and the Tail Haven (for dogs). Don't wait - go directly to 56 Martens Boulevard, where you can own it all!
No exterior & parking available.
Grades K-5 • 0.3 mi
Grades K-4 • 1.0 mi
Grades K-5 • 1.0 mi
No sensitive facilities data found.
| Feature | Subject | Average Home |
|---|---|---|
| Beds | 4.0 | 3.6 |
| Baths | 4.0 | 2.6 |
| Square foot | 1,801 | 2,044.835 |
| Lot Size | 8,481 | 8,527.785 |
| Price | $1.35M | $1.70M |
| Price per sq ft | $749 | $812 |
| Built year | 1952 | 1958 |
| HOA | $0 | $278 |
| Days on market | 19 | 35 |
Aug 21, 2026
$1,349,000
Initial Listing
Jun 18, 2025
$19,000
Public Record