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.
Read More: Do homes in Landmark District of Pasadena demand higher prices?
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:
- Mon, 15 Sep 2025 20:05:00 +0000: $1,980,000 :: 987 Bell Street, Pasadena CA, 91104 - Bungalow Heaven Homes for Sale
5 beds, 5 baths
Home size: 2,896 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,201 sq ft
Added: 06/24/25, Last Updated: 09/15/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: P1-22900
Community: 645 - Pasadena (NW)
Status: Active
Located in a historic 'Bungalow Heaven' of Pasadena, this charming 2416 s.f. 4-bed 4-bath 2-story house, with a 480 s.f. guest house, has been carefully transformed into a welcoming residence with no expense spared. Upon entering, you will discover a sun-drenched entry, pairing with a sunroom-like office. Step inside, the home features an open floor plan connecting a living-dining area, kitchen and family room together. The kitchen is equipped with white clean-lined cabinetry, oversized quartz island and top-of-the-line appliances. Head to the family room that leads to back yard oasis which is very tranquil and peaceful, you will enjoy the California indoor-outdoor living style. There is an en-suite with its own bathroom, a laundry and powder room completing the first floor. Upstairs, there are a lounge area which is perfect for kids studying, playing or watching TV, two bedrooms sharing a bathroom, and the master suite with its own spa-like bathroom. The master suite boasts a luxurious bath with dual vanities, soaking tub and beautiful tiles, and a balcony overlooking the mountain views. Tucked away at rear yard, a guest house features a spacious living-dining-sleeping area with modern kitchen and lovely bathroom. With every space feeling beautiful and comfortable, all the plumbing, electricity, HVAC, roofing and drywall replaced in 2022, and easy access to parks, shops and Freeways, this property is truly the one you do not want to miss.
Listed with Rui Huang | 626-205-4040, 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/! - Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:50:00 +0000: $1,690,000 :: 977 N Hill Avenue, Pasadena CA, 91104 - Bungalow Heaven Homes for Sale
3 beds, 1.75 baths
Home size: 1,476 sq ft
Lot Size: 11,335 sq ft
Added: 08/19/25, Last Updated: 09/10/25
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: SR25185345
Community: 646 - Pasadena (NE)
Status: Active
Welcome to awesome move-in ready updated family home in one of Pasadena's most sought-after neighborhoods! With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this home offers both flexibility and style. As you enter, you'll find a welcoming newly painted living room with a cozy decorative fireplace, plentiful windows that fill the home with natural light making it perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. Just beyond the formal dining room that flows seamlessly from the living area is the bright kitchen that has been thoughtfully renovated with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances and custom cabinetry. Many upgrades include a brand-new roof shingles, a newly designed driveway and pathways, newly installed sprinkler system, LED fixtures, HVAC system with warranty, tankless water heater, newly electrical wiring and plumbing systems. An abundance of windows and French doors lead to the extensive front and back yards perfect for entertaining. The fully fenced private backyard is large enough to accommodate a new pool or possibly an ADU. The property also includes a spacious two-car garage that adds extra storage and convenience. Situated in highly desirable neighborhood, this charming home is not only move-in ready but also full of possibilities. Don't miss the opportunity to make it your own.
Listed with Armen Khnkoyan CalDRE: N | 909-600-0009, LA Home 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/!
PASADENA VIEWS REAL ESTATE TEAM
Pasadena Real Estate Agents
(626)629-VIEW(8439)

