You Don’t Have To Be Average To Like These Averagely Priced Homes

Sweet Digs readers are not a bland, homogeneous lot, with similar incomes, aspirations and taste. That much we know from surveys conducted by Redfin to ascertain just who those bright sparks are out there who clinch great real-estate deals and leave insightful comments on my posts.

But we do know that many Sweet Digs readers are partial to homes in the $600-$700K range. Given that the median house price in Berkeley is currently $689,000 ($463/sq ft), that makes two good reasons to cherry pick my two favorite fresh listings on the market in that price bracket.

First up, 1415 Allston Way: this is a 2/2 home with a detached studio/cottage close to University Avenue with its choice of shops and restaurants, and not far from BART’s North Berkeley station. I like the look of this place — the open-plan kitchen (above left), the taste, the garden with its decks and hot tub (as well as a creek that runs through it — how romantic), and the “boathouse” cottage (above right) which makes a perfect office/guest house. Price: $680,000.

Next up, 2327 Cedar Street: despite being British, I am not usually drawn to what are referred to as “storybook English homes”– as this one is. And I think $657/ sq ft is steep for Berkeley. But, this home (above left) appeals to me because it is in a good location (the paramount consideration in my humble opinion) and it’s really very pretty (including its “petite” kitchen). Price: $685,000.

Finally, just so you know, the lovely John Hudson Thomas designed home at 6412 Benvenue Avenue (pictured above) in The Elmwood is back on the market after being Sale Pending. It comes with lashings of Craftsman features and a deep lot with a hot tub house (sorry, “spa pavilion” — above right) on a great street. Price: $1,095,000.