Funky Fairfax

Fairfax is one of my all time favorite towns in Marin. The last “town” before heading into the wilds of San Geronimo valley, Fairfax, like it’s location, is always on the cusp. As an incredibly progressive and politcally active town, Fairfax possesses a strong and spirited community of residents who are proud to live in Fairfax. Life is centered around it’s pedestrian friendly and independent business oriented downtown. There are great restaurants and cafes, like Iron Springs Brewery (great beer, food and music!) and Fairfax Scoop (super yummy homemade ice cream!) , where locals congregate, socialize and enjoy their wonderful town.

Because of it’s progressive nature, many Marinites say Fairfax remind them a bit of the hippy 60s. Typically going against the mainstream, it’s probably true that the density of vegans and artists in Fairfax are higher than other Marin towns. The community encourages both its residents and visitors to think sustainability. As a launching pad for many hiking and biking trails and well as a thouroughfare for road cyclists, it’s no surprise that Fairfax is focused on retaining and ensuring the beauty of its surroundings.

Being one of my favorite towns, why is it that I don’t live there? Well, for those of you SF commuters like myself, the one downfall is the commute (which is also a great advantage for those who don’t need to go far as you are insulated from all those daily commuters) . Fairfax is just the next town over from my current neck of the woods, but it’s just a tad bit far for a daily grind. And being that Sir Francis Drake is the only way in and out of Fairfax, it can make sometimes for a lengthly roundtrip to SF. But for those who have a flexible schedule, it’s a great place to be and the slight inconvenience makes up for it. Last, but not least, homes here are more affordable here than in places like Mill Valley, Larkspur, or Corte Madera.

Check out recent Fairfax homes on the market and see what you can get for your buck:

110 Wood Ln – 3 bedrooms/ 2baths, 1992 SF – $750,000: This cabin in the woods type house needs some updating but is the flats of Fairfax and close to desirable Deer Park.

450 Bolinas Rd - 3 bedrooms/ 2baths, 1616 SF – $760,000: Up in the hills along Bolinas Road, this home has a nice updated kitchen that blends well into a great room. Decks on each floor take advantage of its hillside location.

175 Francis Ave – 2 bedrooms/ 2baths – $939,000: Private and contemporary home on 1+ acre that has great views of Ross Valley. However, it’s leased through Feb 2008 for $3,000 a month, so keep you eyes out on this one unless you think this is a good investment.

237 Forrest Ave – 4 bedrooms/ 3 baths – $1,189,000: Sitting on almost 2/3 of an acre, this well done house takes great advantage of its outdoor surroundings. A home where you feel like you are away…