Foreclosure Friday: Bungalow Heaven Craftsman

Today, we have a special guest, Laurie March of Improvemental, interior designer and a “rapid renovator” extraordinaire.

Laurie has been an integral part of my team helping my home buyers and home sellers with renovations, updates and design consultations. She will be joining us for our Foreclosure Fridays as we visit bank owned properties.

Today, we’ll be taking a look at an REO that was just listed in the Bungalow Heaven area of Pasadena. Bungalow Heaven is one of the Landmark Districts of Pasadena and is known for its 800 or so craftsman style bungalows – many of which were built for as little as $5,500 from a kit, in the early 1900s.

742 North Chester Avenue, Pasadena California: Bungalow Heaven Bank Owned Home

I was very excited to see this property come up on the market.

First, it is in Bungalow Heaven and we do not see too many foreclosures in this area. Second, it is a character home, a craftsman, which is very much in demand by home buyers. It looked very promising on the MLS and both Laurie and I couldn’t wait to see it.

However, pricing is a bit of an issue here. Usually, we see bank owned homes priced a bit below market to ensure a quick sale. This home was priced towards the high end of the price range looking at the price per square foot and the median home price for 3 bedrooms and 1 bath in the Bungalow Heaven area.

READ MORE: Pasadena Foreclosure Statistics and Historical Overview

As we toured the home, see the video below, it was clear that it was full of potential and charm, but definitely needed significant renovations.

This real estate broker’s opinion? This home is overpriced given the amount of “loving” that it needs.

Listing Price: $554,900

Listing #: C10009014

3 bedrooms and 1 bath with 1,408 sq. ft. Lot size is 7,450 sq. ft. per assessor.

Price per Square Foot: $394.11

UPDATE: Sold for $515,000 on May 3, 2010

Information gathered from the Pasadena Multiple Listing Service as presented by South Hills Properties, Inc.

So take a walk with us through this bank owned bungalow:

Interested in seeing more Pasadena foreclosure homes? Visit Pasadena foreclosure homes for sale.

If you are interested in buying this home or would like to begin your home search, give us a call at 626-629-8439. We look forward to helping you find your next home in Pasadena or any of the surrounding neighborhoods.

Have a question for Laurie? A construction or an interior design project that you need help with? You can find her on HGTV now!

See additional homes for sale in the Bungalow Heaven as they are listed for sale by real estate agents:

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 17:24:00 +0000: $1,495,000 :: 753 N Michigan Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104 - Bungalow Heaven Homes for Sale

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,568 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,327 sq ft
Added: 09/28/23, Last Updated: 09/29/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: DW23181359
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active

Welcome to a piece of history nestled in the heart of the majestic Bungalow Heaven neighborhood, a meticulously restored 1910 Craftsman gem that stands as a testament to timeless beauty and modern functionality. This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is a sanctuary of elegance and charm, set upon a generously sized lot that beckons you with its herringbone pavers leading to the front door. Meticulously renovated, fully permitted, this residence was taken down to the studs in most areas. Every detail has been considered to ensure both historical integrity and contemporary comfort. The entire electrical system has been fully rewired, panel upgraded to 200amp, every single plumbing line replaced, and a new mainline installed. Topping it all off is a brand-new 30-year cool roof, providing both efficiency and durability. The dedication to preserving the past while embracing the future is evident in the six successful inspections with the City of Pasadena and the Historical Review Board. This Craftsman home stands as a testament to design and permitting excellence, a rarity in this historic district. The floor plan has been thoughtfully reimagined and reframed to cater to the needs of a modern family while retaining the essence of 1910. Classic touches like wainscoting and crown molding adorn the 9-foot ceilings, enveloping you in an atmosphere of regal elegance. The bathrooms are showcases of craftsmanship, featuring handmade Spanish glazed tiles and book-matched 10-foot porcelain slabs, meticulously mitered by true artisans. Double stack shaker cabinets boast three types of brass handles, creating a symphony of luxury and functionality. A custom wine rack enclosed in a glass cage, stretching from floor to ceiling, is highlighted by smart lighting design.Lighting in this home is a masterpiece in itself, with recessed baffle lights cleverly placed throughout, totaling nearly 100 energy-efficient fixtures. Level 5 smooth drywall graces the interior, complemented by white oak veneer interior doors. A brand-new 4-ton HVAC system ensures your comfort year-round. Outside, custom welded gates and handrails, powder coated for longevity, welcome you to a backyard paradise. A pergola, picnic area, and fire pit for outdoor enjoyment. This Craftsman home is not just a house; it's a journey through time and design excellence. It seamlessly marries the spirit of 1910 with the innovations of 2025 and beyond, incorporating Art Nouveau elements inspired by Parisian aesthetics.

Listed with Joshua Glaz CalDRE: 01856858 | 562-413-9399, Your Realty Inc.

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/!
Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:06:00 +0000: $1,595,000 :: 834 N Holliston Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104 - Bungalow Heaven Homes for Sale

5 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 2,386 sq ft
Lot Size: 12,032 sq ft
Added: 05/06/23, Last Updated: 09/26/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: PW23062668
Community: Not Defined
Status: Active

Huge price reduction located in sought after Bungalow Heaven area of Pasadena, this Tudor style home is the first time on the market in over 50 years. Lovely 5 bedrooms 2 & 1/4 bathrooms. 3 bedrooms located downstairs and 2 bedrooms upstairs. Wood burning fireplace with gas option, gas stove/oven and other updated kitchen appliances make this home warm convenient. Fresh paint inside and refinished hardwood floors on 1st level and new carpet on 2nd level. Brick front porch is a perfect place to spend an evening visiting with neighbors or just relaxing. Much work has been completed on the home including new roof installed in 2014, foundation bolted in 2010, new electrical main service panel completed in 2008, and new AC/Heating units (upstairs and down) installed in 2011. Original hardwood floors on main level. Park like backyard is great for entertaining with lots of brick pavers lining parking area and patio area. Detached two car garage. Close to 210 freeway access and easy to get to downtown Pasadena. There is a basement that is entered into from the hallway.

Listed with Gail Duchetta CalDRE: 01067811 | 714-871-9750, Landmark Realty Services

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/!
Mon, 25 Sep 2023 14:07:00 +0000: $1,649,000 :: 755 N Chester Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104 - Bungalow Heaven Homes for Sale

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,850 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,393 sq ft
Added: 08/23/23, Last Updated: 09/25/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 23303413
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Status: Conditional

Nestled in the Historic Bungalow Heaven district of Pasadena, this Modern Spanish Bungalow blends seamlessly into the neighborhood, but offers a cool modern flair. The 2018 built, 1,850 sqft, 3 bed/2 bath single story home is full of wonderful features that would satisfy even the most discerning buyer. Keeping true to its architectural style, the interior features custom hand-troweled plaster wall finishes, arched openings, oak wood flooring, and areas of hand-painted tiles. Towards the rear of the property, a detached (and versatile) 2-car garage w/utility room complements the home and maintains parts of the historic primary structure. The property is also energy efficient, including LED lighting, Nest thermostat, 220v outlet for car charger in garage, drought-tolerant landscaping and many native California plant species on property. A truly rare offering.

Listed with Michael Winestone CalDRE: 01962276 | 310-569-2043, Compass

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, 15 Sep 2023 16:32:00 +0000: $1,523,000 :: 977 N Hill Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104 - Bungalow Heaven Homes for Sale

3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,476 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,335 sq ft
Added: 08/24/23, Last Updated: 09/15/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-14848
Community: Pasadena (NE)
The price of this listing was last increased on 9/15/2023 by 4%
Status: Active

This thoughtfully updated 1922 Bungalow blends the best of old world charm with lovely modern day touches, accommodating today's needs along with tomorrow's possibilities of adding a pool or an ADU or both to this generous sized lot! This gem features three bedrooms and two new bathrooms, new kitchen with Quartz countertops, custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances, LG smart Slide-In Gas Range with Air Fryer, and a 900 CFM Range Hood. Additional upgrades include a newly designed driveway and pathways, new irrigation and landscaping, LED fixtures, newly refinished hardwood floors, spacious living room with decorative fireplace & original built-ins, elegant dining room, new Lennox 21+ seer VFR HVAC system with 10 year warranty, tankless water heater, new electrical, new plumbing, an abundance of windows and French doors that lead to the sprawling front and back yards perfect for entertaining.....Just minutes to Old Town Pasadena, The Paseo, Huntington Gardens, South Lake District, Metro Station, restaurants, shops, DTLA and so much more!

Listed with Matty Hurtado CalDRE: 01207955 | (626) 862-6289, Coldwell Banker 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, 15 Sep 2023 10:18:00 +0000: $1,249,000 :: 844 N Catalina Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104 - Bungalow Heaven Homes for Sale

2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,056 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,502 sq ft
Added: 07/14/23, Last Updated: 09/15/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 23289498
Community: Pasadena (NE)
Status: Conditional

Nestled in the charming Bungalow Heaven neighborhood of Pasadena, this delightful 1921 craftsman exudes vintage charm while offering modern comforts, making it an ideal setting for relaxing and entertaining. Step onto the picturesque tree-lined street and prepare to fall in love with this meticulously restored 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence, complete with an office. Sitting on a large lot, every inch of this home has been lovingly refurbished with a keen attention to detail, honoring its 1920s heritage while incorporating luxurious contemporary updates. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by a bright open floor plan, oak wood flooring, restored built-in features, and open-concept chef's kitchen. The beautifully remodeled guest bath with an immaculate clawfoot tub adorned with Horus De France hardware is a dream come true. The primary bedroom is a tranquil retreat, bathed in natural light that pours through the oversized custom wood windows. An eye-catching accent wall, crafted entirely from recycled wood salvaged from the home, sets the stage for relaxation and is complemented by built-in storage and accent lighting. Adjacent to this bedroom, you'll find dual closets with built-in shelving, as well as a spa-inspired ensuite with a freestanding jetted tub, glass shower and a flush-mounted flatscreen TV integrated into the wall. Step through the wood French doors and be greeted by a generous redwood deck, overlooking a magical backyard retreat that sits on large 7499 sq foot lot with a detached one-car garage. The lush landscape is adorned with a majestic Persimmon tree and enchanting string lights, providing a perfect setting for outdoor gatherings. Multiple dining areas offer ample space for entertaining and mature privacy hedges create a serene oasis. Additional updates include, copper plumbing, updated electrical, reinforced foundation and updated sewer line. This Pasadena gem seamlessly combines vintage aesthetics with modern amenities, capturing the hearts of those seeking a home that embodies both timeless elegance and contemporary luxury.

Listed with Jeremiah Vancans CalDRE: 01944484 | 310-363-1416, Compass

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/!