On Tuesdays in Los Angeles, real estate brokers hold open houses for other agents to preview their listings. Generally, these are scheduled prior to any public open houses for buyers. This week, I made my way toward the airport, and with a couple of stops on the way, focused on some new listings in Westchester. Westchester, very close to LAX, feels like a true suburb despite being right in the city of Los Angeles, and close to the airport, freeways, beach areas, and more. The surrounding area was not up to par in the past, but gradually has improved, with good restaurant choices, grocery stores, and close to some nice shopping areas. Not only is it an area you must explore if looking for a single family home on the Westside, it still provides opportunities for fixers and/or rebuilds.
Without further ado, here’s what I saw this week:
On the way- Marina del Rey
The dream of a single-family home in Marina del Rey always draws me. Almost 3000 SF 4br/4ba for approximately $2.3M. Located in the “Oxford Triangle”, this area is in between the beach and Abbot Kinney. Fairly priced, this home has a nice backyard, screened in by tall trees. The downstairs is positively dreamy if you love farmhouse chic, which I do. Beautifully done kitchen open to family room with an additional living room- this house has lots of great, livable space. The upstairs didn’t enchant me as much, but enough to picture myself living there. My only problem with this home is that 3 of the 4 bedrooms are on the small side. But really, what did the kids do to deserve anything? Why shouldn’t I have the huge master suite, with an attached additional living area large enough to have been a playroom if I was unselfish enough to share with the family? Nice sized closet, could use some tweaking for full effectiveness. Separate entrance from the garage to the master suite, so I really can avoid those pesky kids altogether. I think this will go fast, but I’d love to show it to you so one of us can live the dream.
Playa del Rey Beachy-ish Townhouse
Sorry, but a disappointment. Although this 2 bedroom unit is sooo close to the beach, it’s location in this large complex is not one of the most desirable. So close, but not the view we dream of. Yes, you can technically see the ocean from the patio, but you are looking over some pretty ugly buildings and utility poles and wires. To truly enjoy this view, you must be way more Namaste than I am. However, it is priced appropriately at under $1.3M, and if you want to roll out of bed and walk out to the beach, in a complex that even has a pool, I’m happy to show it to you. Personally, I’d hold out for a better location within the complex, but you can expect to pay more for that.
Let’s get into Westchester
In a prime area of Westchester, this almost 5000 SF home for under $3M might be your cup of tea. A Mediterranean design on a large corner lot, the home has 4 bedrooms and 4 baths plus some extra loft-style space. If you have little kids, not only is it located on a cul de sac, but there is a community park perfect for little ones at the end of the street. If you don’t have kids and don’t like them, you may not want to be so close to that little park. Besides having a pool, it is a relatively nice home. The master suite is decent size, the master bath not my favorite design, but points for the additional space that can be easily converted to a glam room/dressing area. If you are looking for a large family home in a great neighborhood, call me to check it out before the Joneses snap it up.
Let’s bounce around to the other end of things. Would you like to find a fixer/tear down in a nice neighborhood? Not every street in Westchester has been McMansionized yet, although this one is well on its way. This house, priced at about $1.3M is crying out, no- screaming out- for love. Born in 1950 and you haven’t changed a bit! Um, yeah. I will say that it must have been ahead of its time back then, as in addition to the obligatory pink bathroom, there is a sky blue one, as well. Wallpaper galore. It’s a mess. But, this 2100 SF house is on a good sized lot and L.A. is running out of spots to build your dream home. It’s a project, but the street is full of examples of what can be done- build your dream home here for less than you could buy it for. (Someone did the same with a house across the street, and sold it for more than $2M last year.) It’s all in the numbers. If you think you are interested, let’s bring your architect and contractor, take a look, and offer what makes sense. Someone will.
Next, saw a 1600 SF house in Kentwood that is allegedly partially redone. At more than $1,350,000, I’m not buying it. On the very same street, to here continue to be homes better done and for less money. Pass on this one, or watch it sit on the market until it’s priced well enough for you to do some work on it. Lots of construction on this block, and it’s a good neighborhood with adorable “starter homes”. I can show you some better options if that’s what you’re looking for.
Oh, how I hate to end on a bad note. But. New construction in Westchester for about $2.25M. Almost 3000 SF 4 br home. It was fine. I’m sorry, but it did not wow me. I really wanted to be impressed. I will end on a positive note- stunning wood kitchen countertops really add some dimension. Maybe I was just tired. If you are looking for a brand new home in Westchester of good size, bring your designer, let’s see if a couple paint swatches or decorating ideas can transform this into something special. If you are looking, do look- the more you see, the more you will 1) know value when you see it, and 2) be confident in your purchase decision. Although I do preview these for you, and it’s my job to weed out the ones that won’t fit your needs, call me so I can take you to a few properties that are within your criteria- even if you might not be 100% sure you are ready. Buyers- take advantage of the fall and winter lull, please don’t wait for Spring!
That’s it for today, fair readers. Disclaimer: This article includes my personal opinions, semi-facts, estimates, and jokes. Not to be taken as gospel. Meant to be semi-informative entertainment. Facts are available- call for information.
ABOUT LISA PHILLIPS, ESQ./ CA Bureau of Real Estate Lic# 01189413
Lisa Phillips is an active Realtor in the Los Angeles area, with more than twenty years as a practicing real estate broker and attorney. Her unparalleled knowledge of real estate, from local markets and pricing to legal issues and deal-making, has made her a trusted and valuable asset to her clients. In addition to her real estate and business savvy, Lisa is passionate about helping others, and works tirelessly to achieve the best results for her clients. For more information, please visit www.LisaPhillipsRealEstate.com.
