Come to Mar Vista to be a part one of Los Angeles’ more unique “micro-neighborhoods”. At less than four square miles, Mar Vista has an individual charm that just can’t be found in newer developments around Westside. There are peaceful, tree-lined streets, neighbors who have known one another for years, and is a great place to raise children. Look for the welcoming committee to greet new homeowner’s with a welcome basket when they first move into their new house.
Mar Vista has long been the perfect place for families with young children. It is relatively safe and has some of the top elementary schools in the state of California. The middle and high schools also have received very favorable ratings and reviews.
Mar Vista represents a great opportunity for first time homebuyers. Homes in Mar Vista are typically more affordable that in other parts of Los Angeles. While homes here trend towards smaller footprints, there is a healthy amount of inventory available making this a very attractive real estate market. The community of Mar Vista is only thirteen miles west of downtown Los Angeles and is easily accessible to the 405 and I 10 freeways making this a great choice for commuters. This central location places Mar Vista between UCLA, the beaches and oceanfront activity making this a great place to come home to after a long day at work. Mar Vista also is considered to be very “walkable” with shops, businesses and restaurants located along a stretch of Venice Boulevard.
The neighborhoods that are within the boundaries of what is considered to be Mar Vista are Culver West, McLaughlin, Mar Vista Hill and Westdale. Northern Mar Vista Hills, which is north of Venice Boulevard, is the premiere address for the most upscale homes in Mar Vista.
Homes here are an eclectic mix of Spanish Villas, redesigned bungalows and properties zoned for historic preservation. It has become a trend in Mar Vista to redesign existing properties to take advantage of their great neighborhood. The result has been some very gorgeous, efficient architectural masterpieces. The home prices in Mar Vista generally range from the high $700,000s for an updated two bedroom, to $1.6 million for a luxury four bedroom property.
Mar Vista has a one of a kind distinction of having some of the most well preserved post-war homes in Los Angeles. It is possible to own a piece of architectural history here. Award-winning architect Gregory Ain designed a development of homes that is known as the Mar Vista Tract between 1947 and 1948. He envisioned bringing elements of modern architecture into middle-class housing. These “Modernique” homes have become the first post-war neighborhood in L.A. to receive a designation to protect their historic character. These homes are recognizable for their flat roofs, wide streets and large yards. The floor plans ingeniously incorporate sliding and folding doors that open or close up living spaces and change the configuration of the rooms. Renovated homes in the Mar Vista Tract are currently being sold in the $1 million range.
For insight on the luxury home market in Mar Vista, call the real estate team at Hartman Cole. They look forward to meeting you, and to helping you find your next home in Mar Vista. Connect today!