
San Diego, California 92101
This Luxury Historic Penthouse is a High-Potential Investment Opportunity, listed at $2,500,000—positioned above the $2,388,205 Fair Market Value. While priced at a premium, the property features a Mint Condition Rating following a high-end renovation and offers the rare Mills Act Historical Designation for significant tax savings. With 360-degree panoramic views, a private terrace, and direct elevator access, it provides an unmatched urban lifestyle. This is an ideal acquisition for Luxury Homeowners or Sophisticated Investors seeking a landmark asset in downtown San Diego.
Comparables within 1 miles sold in recently
| Address | Sold Price | Beds | Baths | Sq Ft | $/Sqft | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
★ 702 Ash Street 1400 Subject 3 bd · 3 ba · 2,004 sqft · $1,192 | $2,500,000* List Price | 3 | 3 | 2,004 | $1,192 | - |
A 1240 India 2306 Sold 3 bd · 3 ba · 2,123 sqft · $1,130 · 0.6 mi | $2,400,000 | 3 | 3 | 2,123 | $1,130 | 0.6 mi |
* Subject property listed price vs sold prices of comps.
Property is new construction or fully renovated.
Despite being built in 1929, this historic penthouse has undergone a complete high-end luxury renovation within the last 5 years. The images show a mint-condition interior with modern bathrooms, a contemporary wet bar, updated flooring, and a pristine private terrace with a built-in outdoor kitchen, requiring absolutely no maintenance.
The property benefits from the Mills Act Historical Designation, offering substantial annual property tax savings that provide a significant financial advantage and long-term value for a luxury downtown residence.
Featuring direct private elevator access and unobstructed 360-degree panoramic views of the San Diego skyline and bay, this penthouse offers a level of exclusivity and scenery that is protected from future development.
A rare find in an urban setting, the large private terrace serves as a significant outdoor sanctuary, providing ample space for high-end entertaining and alfresco dining with dramatic city light backdrops.
The association fee of $1,512 per month is relatively high, which may be a consideration for buyers sensitive to recurring monthly overhead despite the tax savings.
The third bedroom and bathroom are located across the hallway from the main residence, which may be inconvenient for families or buyers who prefer all living quarters to be contained within a single, unified footprint.
A once-in-a-generation opportunity to own a piece of San Diego history with huge tax saving. Perched atop the iconic El Cortez—downtown’s premier landmark and former luxury hotel rumored to have hosted legends like Elvis Presley and The Beatles—Penthouse 1400 rarely hits the market and offers an unmatched luxury living experience. Arrive in ultimate prestige as double elevator doors open directly into your private domain. Showcasing unobstructed, breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the San Diego skyline, bay, and beyond that can never be built out, this fully updated penthouse seamlessly blends vintage glamour with elevated modern living. The main residence features expansive living spaces bathed in natural light, framing dramatic cityscapes from every room. In addition to the main layout, the property includes a private 3rd bedroom and full bath located on the same floor just across the hallway. Reminiscent of the building’s glamorous hotel origins, this versatile independent suite operates seamlessly as a private guest room, executive home office, studio, or quarters for visiting family seeking complete privacy. Step outside onto your expansive private terrace—a rare downtown outdoor sanctuary offering ample space for alfresco dining and sunset entertaining against the backdrop of the city lights. Beyond its incredible aesthetic appeal, the property offers major financial advantages. Benefit from the building’s official Mills Act Historical Designation, capping annual property taxes per year—a rare financial benefit that makes this unbeatable for value in downtown! El Cortez amenities include a resort-style outdoor pool and sun deck area, fitness center and a gated parking garage. This unit has 2 assigned parking spots.
No exterior & parking available.
Grades K-5 • 0.6 mi
Grades 6-8 • 1.5 mi
No sensitive facilities data found.
| Feature | Subject | Average Home |
|---|---|---|
| Beds | 3.0 | 2.0 |
| Baths | 3.0 | 2.0 |
| Square foot | 2,004 | 1,018.142 |
| Lot Size | - | 75,257.211 |
| Price | $2.50M | $598.4K |
| Price per sq ft | $1.2K | $607 |
| Built year | 1929 | 1986 |
| HOA | $1512.0 | $536 |
| Days on market | 30 | 58 |
Sep 25, 2026
$2,500,000
Initial Listing
Jan 3, 2014
$440,000
Public Record
Nov 18, 2004
$1,450,000
Public Record