Berkeley: You Heard It Here First
How many times has someone said to you: “Properties rarely come up for sale on this street?” And how often is it little more than realtor hype? Well, I am going to risk my fledgling reputation by saying that in this case I believe it to be true.
The Plaza Drive in the Claremont district (once described as “the dreamiest neighborhood in Berkeley”) is a truly coveted address (the “The” says it all really): a quiet, tree-lined street full of gorgeous homes — one of which is going on the market this month. (It’s also one of the whitest neighborhoods in Berkeley, but that’s another story.)
It hasn’t been listed yet, but I have it on good authority that 37 Plaza Drive is coming up for sale. The estate sale took place last weekend and it’s only a matter on days before the stagers move in.
The house is a classic Berkeley shingle with a faintly oriental feel. It needs work, lots of work — a lick of fresh paint won’t cut it. Of course, this will make it all the more desirable for many potential buyers.
On the plus side: lots of original features. The living and dining rooms are wood paneled, the casement windows are lovely and there are two large fireplaces. The kitchen is spacious enough to do some create reconfiguring. There’s an elegant staircase leading to four average-sized bedrooms and a converted attic would be perfect as a den or teenager’s hide-out. The garage has been used as a pottery studio.
A real bonus in a city where we all live somewhat cheek by jowl is the fact that next door has a double lot so one side of this house looks out over a large, well-tended garden — some welcome breathing space, even if it isn’t technically yours.
Expect an asking price of well over $1 million. And be in no doubt — there will be a feeding frenzy.
