Do Small Lot Subs Belong Next to Venice CA Homes?
Controversy ensues over whether to continue to allow Venice CA homes to be uprooted by “small lot subdivisions.” Quintessential Venice California, a quaint seaside village in western Los Angeles, features a wildly popular beach walk and destination shops.
This is not the place to find Southern California homes with large or even small acreage. In the January 2014 Venice real estate market last month, the sold single-family homes and multifamily properties featured lots ranging from 1790 square feet to 6249 square feet. These are small lots in attractive, walkable neighborhoods.
Yet our Southern California coastal neighborhoods are becoming even more intimate. In recent years, developers have razzed the historic cottages on some lots. Permits for small lot subdivisions are obtained through the Los Angeles Small Lot Subdivision Ordinance. For example, in 2013 an historic Venice cottage was redeveloped on California Avenue near Abbot Kinney Blvd. The architect had to keep the structure within the 30-foot height limit for this Venice neighborhood. Utilizing a layout taken from 1920s-style bungalows, this project squeezed three homes onto a 40 foot wide by 130 foot deep property. Separated by courtyards and very creative landscaping and building design, each home offers residents privacy and plenty of light. Each residence is accessible by car through the alley.
Recalling how the resort community of Venice of America was founded in 1904, some scratch their heads. Several residents of homes in Venice have signed petitions to halt the use of the Los Angeles Small Lot Subdivision Ordinance in this unique coastal setting. These folks claim the redevelopment does not conform to the California Coastal Act or the Venice Specific Act. The Coastal Act protects areas with recreational and visitors significance. Folks are concerned that small lot subdivisions will diminish the quality of life in Venice.
Venice and Venice Beach reflect the atmosphere in Italy. Homes set in walkable areas, especially in the canal district, are unique in Southern California. On the other hand, Venice is a small community. Most Venice CA homes are under much smaller than 2500 square feet, with many under 1000 square feet. Built throughout the last century, numerous home need updating and modernizing. Although most buildings in Venice are single-family homes, there are also a number of two- and three-unit properties, especially after applying the small lot subdivision ordinance.
Prices for Venice CA homes
Recent sale prices for single-family homes in Venice ranged from $860,000-$2,650,000 with an average sale price in January 2014 of approximately $1,330,000. The average sale price for multifamily properties was slightly higher.
Buying and Selling Upscale Southern California Homes
For more information about Venice CA homes for sale and other luxury homes in Southern California, call Bob Cumming of Keystone Group Properties at 310-496-8122.
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