5658 Brockton Ave., Riverside

[ SOLD for $205,000 ] This Wood Streets cottage has 3 bedrooms (bonus room being used as master bedroom) and one bathroom, and home is almost 1400 square feet!  The original hardwood floors throughout have been recently refinished.  The kitchen is original (historic enthusiasts rejoice!) with tile countertops, lots of cabinetry, a brand new gas stove, indoor laundry, and a cute little corner nook for a bistro set to enjoy casual meals. In addition, there’s a formal dining room for larger gatherings.  The bathroom has subway tub tile and a pedestal sink, while the bedrooms have ample closet space and those sparkling hardwood floors!

The exterior was recently painted, and brand new shutters were custom made just for this house!  The front yard has been recently landscaped.  Backyard is spacious enough for a pool, yet currently cross-fenced with rose garden, vegetable garden, fenced dog run, mature shade tree, and a patio!  There is a detached 2-car garage with fenced RV (or big toy) enclosure too!

This is a regular (standard) sale — not a short sale, not a foreclosure!!!  No banks to deal with!  Immediate response from seller!

3471 Redwood Dr., Riverside

[ SOLD for $495,000 ]   Designed in 1910 by renowned architect Lester S. Moore, this 2-story Craftsman at 3471 Redwood Drive is among the houses that lend prestige and cache to “Bankers Row” in the Mt. Rubidoux Historic District in beautiful downtown Riverside!  This former home of The Honorable Justice John Gabbert (one of the founders of the UCR campus) has been designated by the City of Riverside as Historical Structure of Merit No. 359.

On over half an acre, this masterpiece couples classic 1910 craftsmanship with present-day creature comforts.  An open front porch provides a venue to enjoy the afternoon breezes and also frames the original beveled glass front door.  The foyer is most welcoming and illustrates the quality and scale to be found throughout the home.

Many of the original details remain, including the boxed crown moulding and baseboards, brass doorknobs, double-hung windows, quarter-sawn oak floors, romantic gas and wood-burning fireplace, and wood casement windows.  Yet the inner workings of the home have been completely re-done, such as 2-yr-old downstairs HVAC unit, added electrical sub panel, copper plumbing, refurbished second story floors, and a remodeled 330 sq ft eat-in chef’s kitchen with all new electrical.

The entrance to the spacious formal living room, which is perfect for entertaining, is framed with typical craftsman-style wood tapered square columns and half walls.  For more casual nights in, you can relax in the downstairs den (or 5th bedroom) complete with a former sleeping porch currently used as a home office.  A most elegant formal dining room can accommodate a rather sizeable gathering and is appointed with a built-in China hutch, boxed crown moulding and plate rails.

An elaborate wooden staircase ascends to the spacious second floor with refurbished Douglas Fir wood floors, a larger-than-life 8-foot tall staircase landing window, two bathrooms, four spacious bedrooms (one with French doors leading to a large balcony), a former sleeping porch, and a master bedroom with window seat and expansive views of downtown Riverside.

Additional features include:

• early century Quizel light fixtures in dining, entry and den worth over $11,000
• complete interior paint and plaster ceilings and walls throughout
• complete exterior paint and re-plaster in 2006
• two separate central air/heat units (one upstairs and one down) with the downstairs unit having been installed in 2008
• new water softener
• full copper plumbing throughout the house
• kitchen was gutted down to the studs, and now boasts custom cabinets, self-closing drawers, 36″ Viking range, tile floor, granite counter tops, and a large preparation island with 2nd sink.
• added electrical sub panel in basement
• large walk-in basement with laundry facilities — this fantastic space could be utilized as a sports room, workout room, wine cellar, etc.
• new 200 amp electric meter
• new gas meter
• 50-year ceramic composite roof approx 10 yr. old
• new front yard sprinkler system
• new front yard flower beds with electric outlets
• new front yard landscape lighting
• city supply main sewer line has been replaced
• all floors refurbished on second story
• 250 ft French drain from side yard to front of house along both sides of walkway

The gardens are as enchanting as the house itself, with terraced flower beds, 25+ rose bushes (some English variety), numerous trees (1 elm, 4 liquid amber, magnolia, peach, grapefruit, blood orange, 2 other orange, tangerine, lemon, crape myrtle), custom raised-bed veggie and herb garden with irrigation, lighted cabana with electrical outlets, in-ground pool/spa surrounded by block wall and wrought iron fencing.

A two-car garage with new automatic door openers, new 100 amp electrical service with 50 amp and 30 amp outlets, and a 150 sq ft workshop.  This home has also been qualified for the Mills Act Property Tax Reduction (taxes are only $2,240 per year).

This prestigious craftsman is nothing short of stunning and is certain to be of interest to those who would like to own one of Riverside’s finest!

Are you wondering why this is such an unbelievable value?  This home is a pre-foreclosure (short sale).  We have closed our fair share of short sales, and this transaction will be no exception.  All we need is an offer to submit to Bank of America — their new automated system closes short sales within 90 days!

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6094 Elenor Street

 

 

 

 

 

 

[ SOLD for $269,900 ]   Text book cute!  This historical 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom single story cottage is approximately 1400 sq ft and was built in 1942 with Colonial Revival style detailing.  This traditional single family residence has been designated as a “Structure of Merit” by the City of Riverside, and has been carefully maintained over the years.

Some wonderful features include updated plumbing, central air/heat, original (and gorgeous) hardwood floors throughout, eat-in kitchen plus formal dining room, original tile in hallway bathroom, original bedroom closet shoe rack, romantic fireplace, crown moulding, indoor laundry, 30-year commercial-grade kitchen lineoleum, and $1,000 whisper-quiet dishwasher.

The recessed brick porch overlooks a large sycamore tree in the front yard.  The backyard is large enough to accommodate a pool if you wish, but for now please enjoy the garden shed, citrus trees and built-in BBQ.   A detached 2-car garage matches the style of the residence, and is accessed by a long Hollywood driveway.  The garage has been drywalled, and an extra room was added for storage, office, or workout room, etc.  The traditional garage door was replaced with French doors; however, a garage door could be easily re-installed.

You couldn’t want better neighbors, nor could you be in a better location which is walking distance to the Riverside Plaza, movie theatre, supermarkets and banks, and just blocks from RCC (Riverside Community College). 

This is a standard sale — this is not a foreclosure or short sale!  Sellers are able and willing to respond to all offers within 24 hours.  No waiting weeks [or months] for a bank’s answer!

Start thinking about how to spend your First-time Homebuyer Tax Credit … as long as you qualify, are under contract by April 30th, and close escrow by June 30th!!

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4326 Elmwood Court

[ SOLD for $269,900 ]  Talk about curb appeal — and affordabilityl!!!  The porch on
this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom “Wood Streets” bungalow is just calling your name!  With approx 1330 sq ft, this 1927 home boasts fresh interior paint, gleaming hardwood floors throughout, fireplace, large living room combined with formal dining area, central air and heat, spacious kitchen with dishwasher and gas stove, indoor laundry, and master bedroom suite with private bathroom.  Period wood casement windows add to the charm of this desirable “Wood Streets” neighborhood family home! 

Huge attic space could be converted to another bedroom/bathroom.  In addition, you’ll find a covered patio which is perfect for year-round entertaining and/or relaxing!  The large pool-sized backyard with meandering walkway leads you to a mature shade tree and shed.  Many beautiful and colorful rosebushes dot the landscape, and a long driveway with enough room for RV and/or boat parking as well.

This is a standard sale — this is not a foreclosure or short sale!  Sellers are able and willing to respond to all offers within 24 hours.  No waiting weeks [or months] for a bank’s answer!

One of the main reasons this historical neighborhood is so popular and desirable, is that real families live and interact here!  You’ll see neighbors walking their dogs, pushing baby strollers, riding bicycles, and organizing block parties!  There are also scheduled ‘Walks with the Mayor’, a farmers market, fundraising home tours, museums, and so much more!  Come be a part of this magical neighborhood!

Start packing … and thinking about how to spend your First-time Homebuyer Tax Credit … as long as you qualify, are under contract by April 30th, and close escrow by June 30th!!

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3565 Beechwood Place

 

[ SOLD for $375,000 ]   Exquisite! Absolutely gorgeous! Choice location and meticulous maintenance combine to create a home that is nothing short of stunning, and is certain to be of interest to “Wood Streets” aficionados who would like to own one of the neighborhood’s finest homes – built by famous Riverside builder, Harry Marsh!

This home sets the tone for the model of luxury!  Sellers have spared no expense, from the new energy-efficient A/C, heater and ductwork, to the reburbished inground pool and spa!  Main house is approximately 1600 square feet with 2 large bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.  In addition, there are 2 guest quarters, each with a private 3/4 bathroom bathroom!

Elegance greets you upon entry as you glance upwards to the exaggerated tray ceiling which adds depth to the living room.  Along with the original hardwood floors, you’ll notice the beautiful gas/wood-burning fireplace flanked by French doors to the spacious family room.

The formal dining room boasts a coved ceiling which adds yet another special architectural feature.   The family room, with top-of-the-line porcelain tile floors, also has built-in bookshelves, recessed lighting, and French doors which open to the large covered brick patio.

The numerous amenities include new interior decorator paint, 5-year-old exterior paint, blown-in insulation, double paned windows, basement, permitted walk-in closet addition in master bedroom suite (including a private half bathroom), incredibly charming and 1930′s-era pedestal sink and toilet in hall bathroom, and a bright remodeled kitchen with glass cabinets and built-in breakfast bench in nook area. 

Now venture outside to the large private backyard, where you’ll be amazed at the low-maintenance of the flagstone, block walls, and entertaining areas, along with grapefruit, lemon, orange and lime trees for homemade drinks and cocktail embellishments.  The sparkling inground pool and spa were completely refurbished to the tune of almost $20,000!  And finally, a handsome wrought iron gate complements the long private driveway. 

This home is also claimed as Riverside City Structure of Merit #699!

Relive the romance of the 1930′s in one of the best houses in the “Wood Streets” neighborhood; a strong community where people walk, children play, and friendly neighbors greet one another on the street!

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4332 Beechwood Place

[ SOLD for $302,500 ]   Well-maintained “Wood Streets” 1956 ranch-style home on beautiful and quiet tree-lined street.  Approximately 1900 sq ft with FOUR bedrooms — three of which have exposed hardwood floors and a large closet plus a built-in dresser! One of the bedrooms was recently used as a family room — simply replace double doors for privacy. THREE bathrooms (one full, one 3/4, one half). Central air/heat * indoor laundry * seismic retrofit * complete re-roof * newer exterior paint * dishwasher * gas stove * fireplace * 2-car garage * RV parking.  All of this sits on one of the largest lots on this street (over a quarter acre) specifically .26/acre (11,325 sq ft) with rose bushes, fruit trees and a separate fenced yard perfect for pool, garden(s), big toys, orchard, etc. The possibilities are limitless. Create your own paradise! Check out the photos and drag the cursor over each photo to read the caption…

             

Festival of Lights

Each year thousands of people gather in the beautiful City of Riverside on Mission Inn Avenue the day after Thanksgiving to welcome the Christmas season by watching the amazing lighting of The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa.  This 16th annual Festival of Lights “switch on” ceremony begins after nightfall and features welcoming remarks from Mayor Ron Loveridge, as well as Keeper of the Inn, Duane Roberts, and even Santa Clause. 

With a collective countdown, the festivities begin and the sky becomes alight with fireworks as powerful holiday music plays in sync.  At the culmination of the fireworks display, all three million lights and hundreds of figurines on the Mission Inn come to life and illuminate the streets of Downtown Riverside.  To make sure all of Riverside can enjoy this amazing site, The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa remains lit nightly into the first week of January.

The festivities extend to the adjacent Main Street Pedestrian Mall where horse-drawn carriages and carolers stroll amongst one-of-a-kind shops, and even an ice skating rink.  This event, which began as a modest hotel-only event in 1993, has since grown into one of the premier holiday lights displays in the country, and has even been featured in People Magazine.

Downtown Riverside Ghostwalk

Returning for its 17th year, Friday October 24th and Saturday October 25th from 5:40 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., the California Riverside Ballet brings downtown Riverside alive with stories of horror, mystery and intrigue.  Tours occur at 20 minute intervals with guests being led through the historic district, in the shadows of the Mission Inn, where they will hear spine-tingling to comic renditions of tales “from beyond”.  In 2005, the Ghostwalk event received the recognition as “Best Event in Riverside” and continues to be a tradition gaining additional popularity every year.

The weekend before Halloween, the California Riverside Ballet (CRB) brings the downtown area alive and into its supernatural theme with stories of horror, mystery and intrigue along with the ever-anticipated performances of the CRB dancers adding to the theme of phantasm and illusion.

Beginning as the moon rises on both Friday and Saturday nights, guests are toured throughout the historic district.  The first stop takes you to the Riverside Ballet Arts Studio where you will witness the CRB dancers beckon the undead to dance.  Some of the tour locations that you may be brought to are: the Riverside Art Museum, the Metropolitan Museum, the Historic Aurea Vista Hotel, and the First Congregational Church.

The “Ghostly Meal Deal”
The California Riverside Ballet has created the “Ghostly Meal Deal” for your dining enjoyment during the Ghostwalk event.  The meal includes two slices of cheese or pepperoni pizza, a soda, juice bottle or small water, and a cookie for dessert for only $5.00.  Be sure to add the “Ghostly Meal Deal” to your order to get this special price!

Bring the whole family and don’t miss the CRB BOO-TIQUE, additional activities, music, and dancing at the boardwalk during this annual event.  Unfortunately, many tour location stops are not stroller or wheelchair accessible.

Ticket Information: Tickets will be available on the night of event for “cash only” at $10.00 each.  Children 2 and under are FREE!  $5.00 additional for the “Ghostly Meal Deal”.

Ghostwalk Writers: Have a story?  Each year the CRB accepts stories from well-known and up-and-coming writers to be told to our visitors.  If your story is about the Alive, the Dead or about Ghosts or Ghouls just hanging around or wandering the halls in Downtown Riverside, submit your story to be selected for next year’s Ghostwalk event.  Your story needs to be 10 minutes in length and must engage the audience.

10th Annual Family Village Festival

The Riverside Museum Associates Multicultural Council is celebrating their 10th annual Family Village Festival on Saturday, October 11, 2008 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This “Gathering of Cultures” features villages from Japan, Scandinavia, Mexico, Guyana, Puerto Rico, Samoa and more.  The location this year will be in downtown Riverside at White Park (3936 Chestnut Street) — cross streets being University and Market. 

This FREE multicultural festival offers guests the unique opportunity to explore and learn about different cultures and their traditions through cultural cuisine, children’s activities, storytelling, arts/crafts, and music and dance performances throughout the day.

The event is hosted by the Riverside Museum Associates, the RMA Multicultural Council, and the Riverside Metropolitan Museum. For more information, please call (951) 826-5273 or go to familyvillagefest.com.

Riverside Restaurant Week 2008

From September 15th through the 19th, eight gourmet restaurants will offer a three-course lunch for $25 and a three-course dinner for $35, excluding wine, giving you an opportunity to try some very fine dining in the city of Riverside.

Locations:

• Ciao Bella Ristorante
• Café Sevilla
• Mario’s Place
• The Mission Inn Restaurant
• Via Veneto Trilussa
• Restaurant Omakase
• Olio Ristorante
• Saffron

For more Information: www.finediningriverside.com

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