Score
0Santa Cruz, CA
928 Walnut Ave
1.8M
2 beds
2 baths
1,664 sqft
2 bd • 2 ba • 1,664 sf
This analysis was generated on 1/24/2025. It is for entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as real estate or investment advice.
AI Property Analysis
0:000:00 / 0:00
List Price
$1,795,000
Price/Sq.Ft
$1,079
Year Built
1928
AI Property Analysis
A comprehensive evaluation of this property's features, market position, and investment potential.
The Good
This 1928 English Tudor style home on the Westside of Santa Cruz offers exceptional charm and character. At 1,664 sqft, it's 10.9% larger than the average Santa Cruz home (1,500 sqft). The price per square foot of $1,078.73 is competitive for the area, especially considering its vintage appeal and recent updates. The property boasts unique features like diamond-pane windows, arched doorways, high ceilings with beams, and a rare natural spring in the backyard. Recent upgrades include a tankless water heater ($1,000-$1,500 value), fresh interior paint ($3,000-$5,000 value), and refinished hardwood floors ($2,000-$3,000 value). The detached 2-car garage and long driveway provide ample parking, a significant advantage in Santa Cruz where parking can be scarce. The home's location on the Westside, known for its desirable neighborhoods, adds to its appeal. Proximity to top-rated schools (Santa Cruz High School rated 9/10, just 0.5 miles away) enhances its value for families.
The Bad
The property's age (built in 1928) may lead to higher maintenance costs and potential issues with outdated systems. While some upgrades have been made, major systems like plumbing and electrical may need attention soon. The 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom layout might be limiting for larger families, potentially narrowing the buyer pool. The flood risk score of 4/10 (moderate) and fire risk score of 4/10 (moderate) are slightly concerning and may impact insurance costs. The estimated insurance cost of $6,462/year is high, likely due to the property's age and risk factors. The severe air quality risk (7/10) with 13 bad air days per year could be a health concern for some buyers.
The Ugly
The property's appreciation rate, while positive, has slowed significantly. From 1995 to 2003, it appreciated 237.8% (about 16.5% annually), but from 2003 to 2025, the appreciation rate dropped to 136.2% (about 3.9% annually). This slower growth rate could be a concern for investors. The home's vintage features, while charming, may require specialized and costly maintenance or restoration. The natural spring in the backyard, while unique, could pose drainage issues or foundation problems if not properly managed. The air quality risk score of 7/10 is particularly concerning and could lead to health issues for residents, potentially impacting the property's long-term desirability.
Who is this property for?
These details are presented solely for entertainment purposes and are not meant to steer or limit any prospective buyer.
Best For
This property is ideal for buyers who appreciate historical charm and are willing to invest in maintaining a vintage home. It's well-suited for couples or small families who value character over modern amenities. With its proximity to top-rated schools, it's perfect for families with school-age children. The home would appeal to nature enthusiasts who would enjoy the unique backyard with its natural spring and fruit trees. It's also suitable for buyers who work from home and can utilize the extra space in the finished attic. Investors looking for a long-term rental property in a desirable area of Santa Cruz could benefit from the steady appreciation and potential rental income (estimated at $3,860/month for a 2-bedroom based on local averages).
Not For
This property is not suitable for large families needing more than 2 bedrooms or those requiring open, modern layouts. It's not ideal for buyers on a tight budget, given the high purchase price and potential for costly maintenance. Those with respiratory issues might want to reconsider due to the high air quality risk. First-time homeowners may find the maintenance requirements of a vintage home overwhelming. Investors looking for quick flips or maximum short-term returns might find the slower appreciation rate and potential for costly repairs unappealing.
Demographics
Area Median Income
$93,839
Property History
Price History
Ownership Timeline
$0Cash Purchase
Feb 7, 2012Christopher J Kampfe, Carole E KampfeChris J Kampfe, Carole E Kampfe
Intrafamily Transfer
Non-Arm's Length Transactions
$0Financed
Feb 7, 2012Chris J Kampfe, Carole E KampfeChristopher J Kampfe, Carole E Kampfe
Intrafamily Transfer
Non-Arm's Length Transactions
$0Cash Purchase
Oct 1, 2010Christopher J Kampfe, Carole E KampfeChris J Kampfe, Carole E Kampfe
Intrafamily Transfer
Non-Arm's Length Transactions
$0Financed
Oct 1, 2010Chris J Kampfe, Carole E KampfeChristopher J Kampfe, Carole E Kampfe
Intrafamily Transfer
Non-Arm's Length Transactions
$0Cash Purchase
Apr 12, 2004Chris J Kampfe, Carole E KampfeChris J Kampfe, Carole E Kampfe
Intrafamily Transfer
Non-Arm's Length Transactions
$760,000Financed
Aug 11, 2003Donovan L McnealChris J Kampfe, Carole E Kampfe
Grant Deed
Standard Sale (Purchase/Resales)
$225,000Financed
May 19, 1995Robert Powell Chandler, Bessie M Chandler TrustDonovan L Mcneal
Grant Deed
Standard Sale (Purchase/Resales)
Property Taxes
$12,003
2024 Tax Assessment
1.2%from previous year
Assessed Value$1,070,107
Tax Rate1.12%
Sunlight Analysis
Visualize how sunlight affects this property throughout the day and year.
Sunlight Analysis
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Schools
Nearby school quality by education level
Middle
5.0/10
AverageHigh
9.0/10
ExcellentFinancials
Monthly Costs
Market Rent (2 bed)
Get a detailed estimate on Zillow$3,860
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Location & Comparables
Subject Property
Comparable Sales
Subject Property
Price
$1,795,000
Price/sqft
$1,079
Layout
2 bd•2 ba
Days on market
17 daysat time of analysis
Stats in the Area
Based on 6 comparable properties nearby
Average Price
$1,487,000
20.7%
Your price is 20.7% above average
Median Price
$1,720,000
4.4%
Based on 6 recent sales
Price per Sq.Ft
$933
15.6%
Your price is 15.6% above average $/sqft
Comparable Properties
| Address | Price | Sq.Ft | Beds | Baths | $/Sq.Ft | Sale Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 231 Union Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 | $1,360,000 | 1,613 | 3 | 2 | $84321.8% | 11/16/2024 |
| 241 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 | $1,950,000 | 1,600 | 2 | 2 | $1,21913.0% | 10/24/2024 |
| 1728 Escalona Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 | $1,125,000 | 1,684 | 3 | 2 | $66838.1% | 10/10/2024 |
| 700 Escalona Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 | $1,720,000 | 1,590 | 3 | 2 | $1,0820.3% | 10/4/2024 |
| 1610 King Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 | $1,825,000 | 1,610 | 3 | 2 | $1,1345.1% | 9/10/2024 |
| 2030 Pacific Avenue #113, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 | $942,000 | 1,448 | 3 | 2 | $65139.7% | 9/19/2024 |
231 Union Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Price: $1,360,000
Sq.Ft: 1,613
Beds/Baths: 3/2
$/Sq.Ft:
$84321.8%
Sale Date: 11/16/2024
241 Walnut Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Price: $1,950,000
Sq.Ft: 1,600
Beds/Baths: 2/2
$/Sq.Ft:
$1,21913.0%
Sale Date: 10/24/2024
1728 Escalona Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Price: $1,125,000
Sq.Ft: 1,684
Beds/Baths: 3/2
$/Sq.Ft:
$66838.1%
Sale Date: 10/10/2024
700 Escalona Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Price: $1,720,000
Sq.Ft: 1,590
Beds/Baths: 3/2
$/Sq.Ft:
$1,0820.3%
Sale Date: 10/4/2024
1610 King Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Price: $1,825,000
Sq.Ft: 1,610
Beds/Baths: 3/2
$/Sq.Ft:
$1,1345.1%
Sale Date: 9/10/2024
2030 Pacific Avenue #113, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Price: $942,000
Sq.Ft: 1,448
Beds/Baths: 3/2
$/Sq.Ft:
$65139.7%
Sale Date: 9/19/2024
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