Rolling (with low dough) on a River
This home at 10180 Old River Road in Forestville is on the Russian River. As investments go, its address has a bit more cache than similar properties in nearby Guerneville. Images of residents fleeing Guerneville in canoes with newscasters in wet hair and yellow slickers announcing, “We’re here in GuerNEEEville, site of a 100 year flood” are hard to forget. The Russian River rose to its highest level ever recorded during the flood of 1986, then topped that level 91 years early in 1995. All that water coming down put communities in Forestville, Rio Nido, the coast, and even Petaluma and Sebastopol in peril. But Guerneville (pronounced Gern-Vill), with its picturesque Hacienda Bridge under water, became the fall guy for all of our flood paranoia. This gorgeous area has residents who swear by all it does offer and say they’ll never leave, “Come Hell or high water!”.
If you buy in Forestville you are not out of the woods of another soaking unless you buy high above the woods. This property is close to the River yet it looks to be dry. Soak up the sun on a large deck and enjoy the lovely vaulted ceilings that make it feel more spacious. Since the home is hooked to public water, you won’t run out (even in a 100 year drought). Septic systems are common to older West Sonoma County homes, but the connection is in the street now, so the cost of a hook-up might be a good thing to ask for with your offer. This place has lots of stairs, but once you’re in, everything is on one level. It’s charming with knotty pine walls and wood floors. The smaller deck off the living room is covered with a continuation of the vaulted ceiling from inside. Call it your sweet spot alfresco and banish your smoking visitors and/or their shedding dogs to it without apology. I’d use that deck to serve sandwiches and the fine Russian River Pinot Noir you’ll find at Berry’s Market, an excellent little local favorite that’s just a short walk away.
10180 Old River Road
Forestville, CA 95436
mls# 20713839
2 bedrooms, 1 bath, .14 acre
$299,000
