Alfresco--1901 Eagle Avenue, Alameda, CA

Majestic, towering pine trees are precious little things, and if you'd like the opportunity to dine alfresco behind one, here's your chance. 1901 Eagle Avenue has the following specs:

2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 1,472 sqft, 2,800-sqft lot, $499,000

This charming 1910 split-level Craftsman is nestled behind a majestic pine on a quiet tree-lined street in Central Alameda. With 1472 sq. ft, this home boasts a spacious living room with wainscoting, a beautiful stained glass window, wood burning fireplace and hardwood floors that flow into the dining room. The updated eat-in kitchen has loads of storage and a laundry nearby. A large sunny bedroom and bath are on the first floor. The second floor has a bedroom and cozy attic room with loads of potential. Outside, the sheltered yard offers a quiet place for gardening, relaxing or dining alfresco and the detached garage offers room for a workshop. For the boating enthusiast, the Alameda Marina is just one block away.

You'll have to squeeze a little, though, because the lot is under 3,000 sqft.

Factoring in inflation and agent commissions, it looks as though we're getting back to late 2002 prices:

Last sale and tax info

Sold 12/31/2002: $437,000

2008 Property Tax: $6,134

The property tax seems a little high to me (and delinquent, too), based on the previous sale price; perhaps the property was reassessed for an "equity withdrawal"? The house appears to be in very good shape inside and out, based on the Craigslist post photos, and it's a rare house these days that hasn't paid for its own maintenance. At any rate, it's certainly priced somewhat aggressively at $339 / sqft and will likely sell in short order. It's not priced right, mind you, what with the tiny lot and subprime location (this neighbor isn't looking too proud), just well enough to stand a chance at selling soon.

Update 9/5/09: Sold for $540,000 in May.