San Marino | Home Buyer & Seller Services

San Marino: An Affluent Suburb of Southern California

Nestled in the sprawling San Rafael hills between Pasadena and San Gabriel, the Californian city of San Marino is characterized by lavish properties surrounded by exquisite gardens. Occupying less than four square miles, the area is uniquely residential. Population was reported to be 13,147 in 2010 and climate is temperate with temperatures ranging from an average of 40 degrees during winter months to an average of 90 degrees in the summer.

Ranked by Forbes Magazine as the 63rd most expensive location to live in the United States in 2010, the average price of a typical family home in the area is around the $2 million mark.

History and Current Demographics

The original location of a village occupied by native Tongva Indians, the area of San Marino later played an important role in the early San Gabriel Roman Catholic Mission. The area that is now occupied by the landmark Huntington Library together with several ranchos were incorporated as the city of San Marino in 1913.

The 2010 United States Census showed that the population of San Marino was a little over 13,000 people. The racial makeup of the area was detailed as 53.5% Asian and 41.3% White, with very small percentages of Hispanic and Latino, Pacific Islander and African-American races making up the rest of the population. Of 4,330 households, approximately 42% had children under the age of 18. The average age of residents is 45 years and there is a slightly higher female to male ratio.

Main Attractions in San Marino

The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens on Oxford Road is one of the most popular attractions in San Marino. Known collectively as ‘The Huntington, ‘ this 207 acre landmark complex draws residents and tourists alike. The 18th century art collection housed here is said to be one of the most complete collections outside of London.

The Edwin Hubble House on Woodstock Road is a National Historic Landmark. It was the home of the American astronomer and “pioneer of distant stars,” Edwin Powell Hubble, between 1925 and 1953. The San Marino residence remained in the Hubble family until 1973.

Lacy Park is a vast 30-acre expanse of lush green space in the middle of San Marino. Originally known as Wilson Lake, it is considered one of the city’s best kept secrets. The park boasts six championship size tennis courts, walking loops, memorial gardens and a 60-year-old Rose Arbor. Also, when in Lacy Park, don’t overlook The Thurnher House which is located at the front entry of the park. This historic structure was built in 1929 and now serves as the headquarters for San Marino Historical Society.

The Crowell Public Library is a state-of-the-art building which opened in 2008. The new library provides books, magazines, DVD’s, electronic database, reference assistance and programs for all ages.

The Old Mill is the oldest commercial building in Southern California. Built in 1816, it served as a grist mill for Mission San Gabriel.

The Michael White Adobe is a small structure located on the campus of San Marino High School next to the athletic field, built in 1845 . Named for the owner of the original land where it was built, many say that San Marino’s roots in early California history began here.

Additional Information

– San Marino is divided into zones depending on lot size. Lots start at 4,500 square feet and reach over 30,000 square feet. The city’s strict views on historic preservation restrict larger developments.

– The San Marino government applies restrictions to commercial operations within the city. Commercial vehicles must be granted permits to enter and work within the city.

– The city is regularly featured in motion pictures and television shows. Famous examples include Father of the Bride, Mr & Mrs Smith, Starsky & Hutch and The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.

– According to the Academic Performance Index for 2011, the San Marino Unified School District is California’s best performing school district. The San Marino School District includes Carver and Valentine Elementary Schools, Huntington Middle School and San Marino High School.

– Private schools in San Marino include Southwestern Academy, a college preparatory school, and Saints Felicitas and Perpetua Grammar School, a Catholic elementary school serving students from kindergarten through 8th grade.

– The Crowell Public Library on Huntington Drive opened in 2008 and plays host to a range of activities and classes for residents of all ages and abilities.

See 2010 Home SOLD information for San Marino with List vs Sold Price, Date Sold and Price per Square Foot.

This community consists only of single family residences and there are no apartment buildings, condominiums or townhouses in the city.

This Pasadena adjacent has beautiful tree-lined streets and estates sitting on large lots, with many averaging over 30,000 sq. ft. Most of the San Marino homes were built between 1920 and 1950.

San Marino is regarded as having one of the best school districts in the Greater Los Angeles Area. In fact, San Marino School District was ranked as #1 district in California based on its API (Academic Performance Index) in 2008. All of its public schools are honored as a California Distinguished School and a United States National Blue Ribbon School.

The city includes the estate of Henry E. Huntington, who made a fortune in the development of Southern California and opened the library and art collections in his large neo-Palladian mansion to the public in 1919, best known as the Huntington Library. At the time, San Marino was some twelve miles (19 km) from Los Angeles.

Huntington Drive and Sierra Madre Boulevard serve as the main thoroughfares, leading to Pasadena, Alhambra and San Gabriel.

In the middle of San Marino, not too far from Huntington Library, lies Lacy Park. It is a huge 30-acre park filled with unique and hard to find trees and beautiful lush foliage. Not too many people know that back in 1875 it was a lake – Wilson Lake. The land was bought and converted to a park in 1925.

Families in San Marino have enjoyed Lacy parkfor years, and it remains one of San Marino’s best kept secrets. The park includes six championship tennis courts and pro shop, administered by the San Marino Tennis Foundation. At the west entrance of the park is the Rose Arbor, which is of special significance for the people of San Marino. It is 60 years old and has long been a source of beauty and tranquility to many residents.

The park recently built a memorial to General George S. Patton (a native of San Marino) and also a large memorial to Armed Forces along with a statue of a sad soldier. The memorial includes the names of all military personnel from San Marino that where killed in various wars.

SAN MARINO SCHOOLS

Wikipedia says this about San Marino Schools: There are four public schools. They are Valentine Elementary School, Carver Elementary School, Huntington Middle School and San Marino High School. Stoneman Elementary School (named for the Governor who lived in San Marino) is no longer used for instruction by the School District. Southwestern Academy, a private college preparatory school, is also located in San Marino.

There is also a private Roman Catholic grammar school, SS. Felicitas and Perpetua. The city took the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to the Supreme Court to block the opening of this school.

The two elementary schools offer instruction for grades K-5, the middle school for grades 6-8 and the high school for grades 9-12.

In 2005 and 2006, the San Marino Unified School District ranked first among all 328 California unified school districts based on the California Academic Performance Index. San Marino High School is considered one of the best-performing public schools on Standardized Achievement Tests (as of 2004) in Southern California. It was also named a National Blue Ribbon School in 2006. Most of San Marino’s schools’ funds come from private donors and organizations.[citation needed].

In November 2007, U.S. News and World Report put San Marino High School in number 82 on its list of best high schools in the nation, giving SMHS the Gold Medal honor.

Asian-Americans are 70% of San Marino school enrollment as of December 2005. Strong support for education from the Asian community has bolstered the excellence of the school district.

The University of Southern California owns a house in San Marino which is used as the residence of the President of the University. The residence and grounds are large enough to allow events to be held there.

*Data gathered from San Marino Unified School District, California Department of Education Analysis, Measurement & Accountability Reporting Division and GreatSchools.org

SAN MARINO HOUSING

On October 6, 2008, Forbes.com rated San Marino as the 47th most expensive zip codes (91108) to live in with the 2007 median home price being $1,552,500.

Even in the economic downturn, home prices have maintained their value and San Marino home sellers are still experiencing a higher demand than the surrounding cities.

San Marino Real Estate Listings by Price. These home listings are updated every few hours and feed directly from the Multiple Listing Service as real estate agents update and upload new homes for sale.

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San Marino Real Estate:

Sun, 01 Mar 2015 12:02:00 +0000: $4,998,000 :: 2285 Robles Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

5 beds, 5 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 5,215 sq ft
Lot Size: 21,600 sq ft
Added: 02/04/15, Last Updated: 03/01/15
Property Type: Residential, Sale / Single Family
MLS Number: 315000991
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
The price of this listing was last reduced on 3/1/2015 by 4%
Status: Active

Located in the prestigious Huntington Library area of San Marino, this Cape Cod Colonial home has been thoughtfully updated w/ a contemporary spin. A circle drive leads to the spacious entry w/ guest bath & graceful staircase to the 2nd level. On the left of the entry is a comfortable library w/ fireplace & on the right an elegant living room w/granite fireplace & picture windows overlooking the front garden. The adjoining formal dining room is convenient to the gourmet kitchen which consists of a bright breakfast area, center island, walk-in pantry, granite counters & newer appliances. A large family room w/ wet bar is adjacent. A laundry/mudroom opens to the side drive entrance. There are 5 bedroom suites, 2 on the main level & 3 upstairs. Features include hardwood floors, crown moldings, plantation shutters, recessed lighting & granite baths. The professionally landscaped grounds include lawns front & back, mature trees & sparkling newer pool & spa. There is a detached 3 car garage.

Listed with Catherine Cheney, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Company

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Sat, 28 Feb 2015 11:27:00 +0000: $3,488,000 :: 1920 Windsor Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 5 full baths
Home size: 3,358 sq ft
Lot Size: 17,991 sq ft
Added: 02/19/15, Last Updated: 02/28/15
Property Type: Residential , Single Family Residence
MLS Number: AR15035749
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Located in the prestigious Huntington Library area of San Marino ,Beautiful Front yard surrounded by colorful planters.Excellent floor plan with pool House .There are four bedrooms with 2 suites.Mastersuite is expended with seperate corner tub&Shower,dual vanites&spacious walk in closet.Good size family roomlead to the pool view,Large Formal room with fireplace.the adjoining formal dining room with front yard view is convenient to the gourmet kitchenwhich consists a bright breakfast area,Center Island walk-in Pantry,Granite Counters and Newer Appliances.Features include California Basement ,Hardwood Floors,Crown Moldings,Plantation Shutters,Recessed Ligthing,Custom Fitted Closets and Granite Bathrooms.Laundry room could be used as an Office.The professionally landscaped grounds includeLawns Front&Back ,Matures Trees,beautiful back yard with Built in BBQ&Sparking Pool &Spa.One Full bathroom is outside by the pool,just bring your Guests&Famillies enjoy this California Life Style,Walking Distance to Valentine Elementary School&Huntington Middle School,must see to appreciate !

Listed with Ricky Seow (w/ Kathy Seow), RE/MAX 1000 Realty

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Sat, 28 Feb 2015 09:36:00 +0000: $2,650,000 :: 1571 Wembley Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 4 full baths
Home size: 2,927 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,096 sq ft
Added: 02/02/15, Last Updated: 02/28/15
Property Type: Residential , Single Family Residence
MLS Number: WS15022539
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Well-kept one story home located in prime location of San Marino, north of Huntington Dr. Formal entry way, spacious living room with recessed lights, house was originally built in year 1948 and with addition in year 1986, kitchen was tastefully remodeled by current owner, granite counter top, custom cabinets, center island, 4 nice sized bedrooms, ( 3 are suites), master bedroom with walk in closet, jacuzzi, shower, and newer wood floor, all bathrooms have been updated by current owner in year of 2010, dinning room with built-in work area and fireplace, family room with doors lead to professionally landscaped back yard, grassy area, gazebo, and patio.

Listed with Steve Hang, COLDWELL BANKER DYNASTY/ARC

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Sat, 28 Feb 2015 07:18:00 +0000: $2,580,000 :: 2170 South El Molino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

3 beds, 3 full baths
Home size: 2,598 sq ft
Lot Size: 10,969 sq ft
Added: 08/25/14, Last Updated: 02/28/15
Property Type: Residential , Single Family Residence
MLS Number: TR14182746
Community: San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 1/26/2015 by 4%
Status: Active

This fabulous Spanish estate located North of Huntington in the very desirable Mission District of San Marino. Extremely well maintained. Very open and spacious floor plan w/ 3 beds, 3 baths, elegant living room with fireplace overlooking a covered loggia and private courtyard perfect for outdoor living and complete with fireplace and fountain. Chef’s kitchen, and large family room. The master suite w/custom walk in closet and balcony. French doors, hardwood floors, quality custom cabinetry, bookcases, and crown moldings throughout. This is truly a special and lovely home. It is chemical free home with a HEPA filter system. Very private large front and backyard plus courtyard beautifully landscaped w/ COMPLETE PRIVACY. San Marino school district

Listed with Jenny Xu, Re/Max Realty 100

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Sat, 28 Feb 2015 07:15:00 +0000: $3,580,000 :: 1420 Wilson Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 4 full baths
Home size: 4,116 sq ft
Lot Size: 13,966 sq ft
Added: 06/16/14, Last Updated: 02/28/15
Property Type: Residential , Single Family Residence
MLS Number: TR14126212
Community: San Marino
The price of this listing was last reduced on 9/9/2014 by 8%
Status: Active

GORGEOUS TOTALLY RENOVATED home located near San Marino's popular Mission District and is designed for gracious living. 4 BR 4BA (2 suites) plus huge bonus RM Above the garage. The owners have thoughtfully renovated the entire property with $$$$$$$ "top of the line" materials and appliances, attention to detail. Chef's kitchen with Thermador appliances. Caesar Stone countertops and custom cabinetry. Hardwood flooring throughout. Other custom details throughout the house include drapes, wallpaper, light fixtures, cabinets. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, tank-less water heater. In addition to the advertised square footage, the property includes a 545 square foot bonus room above the garage. Large front yard beautifully landscaped and gated for extra privacy. Very private backyard with a pond and patio that steps down to a lovely pool. too much to list. Showcase, Extraordinary, elegance, luxury...all in this estate.

Listed with Jenny Xu, Re/Max Realty 100

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Fri, 27 Feb 2015 18:12:00 +0000: $6,580,000 :: 1779 LOMBARDY RD, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

7 beds, 5 full baths
Home size: 6,748 sq ft
Lot Size: 31,161 sq ft
Added: 02/23/15, Last Updated: 02/27/15
Property Type: Residential, Sale / Single Family
MLS Number: 15878817
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

Your Castle in Spain Awaits! Just at the portals of the renowned Huntington Library & Gardens in uber pristine San Marino, California, this impressive & imposing South facing fortress-like estate, designed by the prominent Harvard educated artist & architect, George Washington Smith, is surrounded by almost ~ of an acre of lushly landscaped grounds. The unpretentious fa~ade belies the space, elegance & authentic details you'll find hidden within its massive walls. The breathtaking terraces, courtyards, & fountains, & magnificent swimmer's pool, all flanked by spectacular arches & colonnades, and easily accessible through numerous French doors, are inescapable from view, as you meander through the generously proportioned public areas which include a very large beamed ceiling family room positioned just off the kitchen. The huge magnificent gated & hedged South facing lawn is perfect for soccer games as well as the most elegant garden parties one can envision.

Listed with J. Tucker Elm, Sotheby's International Realty

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Fri, 27 Feb 2015 14:17:00 +0000: $6,988,000 :: 985 San Marino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

6 beds, 5 full, 3 part baths
Home size: 6,611 sq ft
Lot Size: 37,062 sq ft
Added: 01/03/15, Last Updated: 02/27/15
Property Type: Residential, Sale / Single Family
MLS Number: 315000041
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Active

Located in the exclusive Huntington Library Gardens neighborhood, this romantic French style home is exquisitely remodeled with exceptional detail and state-of-the-art amenities in 2000. The extraordinary living space offers gracious foyer, spectacular living room, office, formal dining room, gourmet kitchen with center island, separate wok room, breakfast area and family room, 6 bedroom suites, a powder room and laundry room. A private pool house with fireplace and 3/4 baths. Beautifully landscaped grounds feature a sparkling pool & spa, full size lighted tennis court, koi pond with water fall, gazebo, fountains, mature trees, large grassy areas, flowers, lush plantings & lots of fruit trees. Additional features include custom window coverings, crown moldings, built-in fish tank, dual zone A/C systems, recessed lighting, 6 crystal chandeliers, security system, gated circular driveway, 3-car garage and a carport. This is truly a gracious home for comfortable living and entertaining!

Listed with Nancy Liu (w/ Sabrina Wu), RE/MAX 2000 Realty

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Fri, 27 Feb 2015 13:54:00 +0000: $3,800,000 :: 1548 Virginia Road, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 5 full baths
Home size: 3,836 sq ft
Lot Size: 21,191 sq ft
Added: 02/17/15, Last Updated: 02/27/15
Property Type: Residential, Sale / Single Family
MLS Number: 315001577
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Conditional

Stunning single level Spanish home is located just steps away from Lacy Park and exudes character and warmth. The home is in impeccable condition with a flowing floor plan. Both the formal living room and dining room are highlighted by picturesque windows allowing plenty of natural sunlight. Additional appointments to the home are an updated kitchen equipped with top-of-the line appliances, a den with French doors leading to the covered patio, and a generously sized family room with access to the backyard. The gracious master suite features an updated bathroom and walk-in-closet. The landscaped backyard offers effortless entertaining and is comprised of a patio, grassy grounds, gazebo with a brick fireplace, pool and spa. The 2-car attached garage has another room for extra storage and a workshop. This one-of-a-kind San Marino property is a special place to call home.

Listed with Ronnie Garofalo, Coldwell Banker Residental Brokerage

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Thu, 26 Feb 2015 15:23:00 +0000: $4,998,000 :: 1460 AVONREA RD, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

8 beds, 4 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 7,557 sq ft
Lot Size: 26,794 sq ft
Added: 02/26/15, Last Updated: 02/26/15
Property Type: Residential, Sale / Single Family
MLS Number: 15882401
Community: San Marino
Status: Active

SPECTACULAR ONE OF A KIND SAN MARINO PROPERTY. FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE "WILDWOOD", THIS HISTORIC ENGLISH TWO-STORY CRAFTSMAN STYLE HOME WAS ONCE THE HOME OF RICHARD H. LACY, THE THIRD MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN MARINO. THE PROPERTY STILL HOLDS THE CHARM OF ITS ORIGINAL FEATURES SUCH AS THE MAGNIFICENT STAINED GLASS ABOVE THE STAIRCASE TO THE SECOND FLOOR AND THE SPADE THEME WHICH IS SCATTERED THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE. THIS FABULOUS ESTATE FEATURES FOUR FIREPLACES, A GRAND SCALE ENTRY HALL, FORMAL LIVING ROOM, FAMILY ROOM, CONSERVATORY, OFFICE, BREAKFAST ROOM, FORMAL DINING ROOM AND EIGHT BEDROOMS AND FIVE BATHROOMS INCLUDING A TWO-ROOM MASTER SUITE IN 7,557 SQUARE FEET OF LIVING SPACE. THE KITCHEN HAS GRANITE COUNTER TOP AND A WALK IN PANTRY. THE BASEMENT CONSISTS OF A GYM, LAUNDRY ROOM AND PLENTY OF STORAGE SPACE. THERE IS AN ATTIC WITH TREMENDOUS POTENTIAL FOR A STUDIO OR PLAYROOM. ALL THIS AND THE PROFESSIONALLY LANDSCAPED GROUNDS ON A 26, 794 SQUARE FEET LOT COMPLETE WITH POOL & SPA.

Listed with Charles Picker, I.X.A.

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!
Wed, 25 Feb 2015 17:11:00 +0000: $2,730,000 :: 2112 South El Molino Avenue, San Marino CA, 91108 - San Marino Homes for Sale

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths
Home size: 2,863 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,432 sq ft
Added: 02/13/15, Last Updated: 02/25/15
Property Type: Residential, Sale / Single Family
MLS Number: 315001433
Community: San Marino
Tract: Not Applicable-655 (NA655)
Status: Active

Located in the popular Mission District, this classic Dutch Colonial home was meticulously and lovingly renovated and expanded in recent years using top of the line finishes and materials with additional upgrades and improvements. The elegant living spaces include a welcoming entry with central hall and powder room, gracious living room with fireplace and French doors leading to the outdoors and a covered patio.The formal dining room is adjacent to the state-of-the-art kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and an island with casual dining seats. The breakfast nook and adjoining family room with French doors lead out to a spectacular covered patio providing a perfect setting for family gatherings and entertaining. Upstairs there are 4 bright and spacious bedrooms and 2 completely remodeled full baths.The master bedroom suite offers 2 walk-in closets,a lavish bathroom and private balcony overlooking the back yard.There is a lovely home office/craft studio attached to the 2-car garage.

Listed with Sabrina Wu, Coldwell Banker Residental Brokerage

Brought to you by Irina Netchaev, Pasadena Views Real Estate Team Inc. Call me today at 626-627-7107, or visit my website at www.pasadenaviews.com/free-home-search/!

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PLACES TO VISIT IN SAN MARINO:

Huntington Library – Famous for its beautiful Botanical Gardens, British and French Art Collection and has one of the largest collections of rare books and manuscripts outside of the Library of Congress.

Lacy Park – Known best for its Rose Garden and the annual 4th of July Parade. In my opinion, it is one of the prettiest parks in the San Gabriel Valley.

The Old Mill (Molino Viejo) – Oldest standing commercial building Southern California; Used to be the mill for the San Gabriel Mission.

San Marino Public Library – Opened in January of 2008, this library is an absolute pleasure to visit.