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1299 Cordova Transformation

1299 Cordova Transformation

1299 Cordova complex is just a few blocks from CalTech and the Pasadena City College.  The complex is perfect for many home owners that want to live in the heart of Pasadena, convenient to shopping at South Lake District and entertainment on Colorado Blvd, but also is popular with investors since it allows for a great rental to students and visitors alike.

When we were called in to help sell this one bedroom and one bath condo, I’d have to say that this was one of the most interesting and challenging scenarios.  The main living room was subdivided into two separate living space with use of dividers which created three rental units – one in the bedroom and two in the living room.

The unit still had the old fashioned wall paper in the bathrooms and hallway, and the kitchen was most likely the originally built brown laminate style.  A huge balcony, if you could get to it, was the star of the property and showcased the beautiful Pasadena mountain views (faced North).

The owner wanted to get the property ready for sale, but had a very strict budget with which to do that.  Here’re some of the updates that we helped with.  You can see the final outcome with all the photos at the 1299 Cordova listing page.  We ended up selling this property in less than 2 days for $10,000 over asking.  The fastest and highest sale at the complex at that time!

  • Before-Cordova Kitchen
    After-Cordova Kitchen
    BeforeCordova KitchenAfter

Kitchen before and after

One of the things that we had to decide on is to how much to do the kitchen.  The easiest solution was to paint the cabinetry white to brighten it up.  Even though the seller was thinking of doing a full kitchen remodel originally, my recommendation was to change out the appliances and leave the charming tile and countertops as they were.  Changes to improve the space:

  • Painted cabinetry white and changed out the pulls for a modern feel.
  • Changed out appliances and hauled the refrigerator.
  • Showcased the green tile by adding appropriate accessories.
  • Before-1299 Cordova Bathroom
    After-1299 Cordova Bathroom
    Before1299 Cordova BathroomAfter

Bathroom before and after

The bathroom was a challenge given the amount of wallpaper and the state of the shower itself.  Changes to improve the space:

  • Removed wallpaper and repainted in a light color.
  • Changed out the medicine mirror cabinet to a simple mirror and updated the mirror over the vanity.
  • Replaced the lighting over the vanity and the loud exhaust fan.
  • Replaced plumbing shower fixture and cleaned, cleaned, cleaned!
  • Before-Cordova Bedroom
    After-Cordova Bedroom
    BeforeCordova Bedroom After

Bedroom before and after

The bedroom was the easiest room to attack. Changes to improve the space:

  • Removed window coverings.
  • Repainted.
  • Staged!

Here’s what our client had to say:
“Irina is amazing! If you are like me, you’ve probably had your share of frustrating moments, because you have pictured how a transaction is supposed to go, but then it never does. Irina is truly an exception to this rule in every way.

I would say that my transaction had some unique characteristics and so I needed an agent who would be able to ensure things would go smoothly. Irina was the answer. She was extremely professional, knowledgeable and truly had a great sense of the market and what it takes to sell the property at the best possible price.

I know that Irina had a number of listings that she was handling, however, she made me feel like I was her only client. She had an excellent follow-up and follow through in everything she did. I never had to chase her or wait for a long time for anything. All my calls were returned promptly and all questions were answered quickly as well.

Irina kept me informed and up to date with everything that was taking place at every stage of the transaction. I can’t believe I am saying this, but I really enjoyed this experience and I can’t wait to work with Irina again soon. She is truly a number one agent in my book.”  Ian V. via LinkedIn

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