
Reseda, California 91335
This property presents a Strong Value Opportunity with a List Price of $699,900—positioned well below the $743,909 Fair Market Value by 5%. This valuation gap offers $44,009 in Instant Equity for buyers. Featuring a Condition Rating of 5, this 1956 William Mellenthin Birdhouse Ranch requires extensive renovation, offering significant upside for forced appreciation. With an in-ground pool and versatile bonus room, this asset is an ideal acquisition for Fix-and-Flip Investors or Contractors seeking a project with authentic midcentury character.
Comparables within 1 miles sold in recently
| Address | Sold Price | Beds | Baths | Sq Ft | $/Sqft | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
★ 7238 Balcom Avenue Subject | $699,900* List Price | 2 | 2 | 1,788 | $416 | - |
A 7006 Zelzah Avenue Sold | $770,000 | 3 | 2 | 1,580 | $487 | 0.3 mi |
B 6944 Lindley Sold | $680,000 | 3 | 2 | 1,475 | $461 | 0.5 mi |
C 18026 Ingomar Street Sold | $715,000 | 3 | 2 | 1,888 | $379 | 0.7 mi |
D 6900 Garden Grove Sold | $770,000 | 4 | 2 | 1,661 | $464 | 0.7 mi |
E 7732 7732 Garden Grove Sold | $628,000 | 3 | 2 | 1,298 | $484 | 0.8 mi |
F 7351 Zelzah Avenue Active | $748,000 List Price | 2 | 2 | 1,680 | $445 | 0.2 mi |
* Subject property listed price vs sold prices of comps.
Property is extensive renovation needed.
Built in 1956 and largely in original condition, the home features dated wood paneling, popcorn ceilings, and original kitchen/bath fixtures. The listing explicitly states it is 'ready for extensive renovation' and targets builders or investors, indicating that major systems and interiors require a full rehab.
As a celebrated William Mellenthin 'Birdhouse Ranch,' the property features iconic midcentury design elements and a signature aesthetic that is highly coveted by enthusiasts and collectors in the San Fernando Valley.
With nearly 1,800 square feet of living space, a versatile bonus room, and an in-ground pool on a gated lot, this property offers a prime opportunity for investors or owner-occupants to build substantial equity through restoration.
The home retains rare original details including hardwood flooring, a dramatic double-sided brick fireplace, and extensive wood paneling, providing a high-quality foundation for a thoughtful midcentury modern renovation.
The property requires a comprehensive restoration, which will necessitate a significant budget and a long-term timeline for repairs and modernization beyond typical cosmetic updates.
Despite the generous square footage, the official two-bedroom configuration may limit the property's appeal to larger families or impact its appraisal value compared to standard three-bedroom homes in the area.
OFFER DEADLINE: TUESDAY 9/1 12 PM (NOON) Calling all renovators and midcentury enthusiasts: this character-rich 1956 Birdhouse Ranch reflects many of the hallmark details associated with William Mellenthin’s celebrated San Fernando Valley homes, along with the kind of original character that makes a thoughtful restoration especially rewarding. Located in Reseda, the home offers approximately 1,788 square feet with 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a versatile bonus room with a closet, all on a 6,755-square-foot lot. The large bonus room offers flexibility for an office, den, studio, hobby room, or other use. Step inside to find original hardwood floors, extensive wood paneling and detailing, a dramatic double-sided brick fireplace, a diamond-pane window, and other period touches, providing a compelling foundation for renovation. Outside, the gated property includes a large driveway, an attached 2-car direct-access garage with built-ins, an in-ground pool, and multiple mature fruit trees (citrus, fig, and more). A signature birdhouse/dovecote detail is prominently featured above the garage. Ready for extensive renovation, this is an exciting opportunity for a builder, investor, or owner-occupant to bring their vision and breathe new life into a home with real personality and value-add potential. Ideally situated approximately 10 minutes from Lake Balboa Park and its extensive recreational amenities, with convenient access to major Valley freeways.
No exterior & parking available.
Grades K-5 • 0.3 mi
Grades K-5 • 0.4 mi
Grades K-5 • 0.4 mi
No sensitive facilities data found.
| Feature | Subject | Average Home |
|---|---|---|
| Beds | 2.0 | 3.0 |
| Baths | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| Square foot | 1,788 | 1,454.579 |
| Lot Size | 6,755 | 6,711.877 |
| Price | $699.9K | $825.4K |
| Price per sq ft | $391 | $560 |
| Built year | 1956 | 1952 |
| HOA | $0 | $0 |
| Days on market | 15 | 54 |
Aug 25, 2026
$699,900
Initial Listing
Aug 29, 2001
$250,000
Public Record