Los Angeles — Top 5 Renovation Picks (Aug 11, 2025)

1006 Van Pelt Ave, East Los Angeles, CA 90063 — $549,000

  • Beds/Baths/Sqft: 3 bd / 2 ba / 1,182 sqft
  • Price per SqFt: $464
  • Lot size: 4,043 sqft
  • Year Built / Type: 1959 / Single Family Residential
  • Status / Last Sale: Listed (Active) / $549,000 Aug 11, 2025
  • Summary: This three-bedroom, two-bath home is a fixer-upper opportunity with an open layout and untapped kitchen potential, ideal for investors.
  • Renovation rationale:
    • Low price per square foot at $464.
    • Usable lot size of 4,043 sqft allows for expansion or landscaping.
  • Why these metrics matter for renovation:
    • The low price per square foot provides a strong starting point for renovations, while the usable lot size offers flexibility for additions or outdoor amenities, enhancing resale value.
  • Recommended renovation ideas: Update the kitchen and bathrooms, enhance curb appeal, and consider adding outdoor living space.
  • View on Redfin

11736 Success Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90059 — $550,000

  • Beds/Baths/Sqft: 5 bd / 2 ba / 1,622 sqft
  • Price per SqFt: $339
  • Lot size: 8,298 sqft
  • Year Built / Type: 1961 / Single Family Residential
  • Status / Last Sale: Listed (Active) / $550,000 Aug 10, 2025
  • Summary: This corner house features five bedrooms and two bathrooms, with ample space for an ADU or development, perfect for rental income.
  • Renovation rationale:
    • Extremely low price per square foot at $339.
    • Large lot size of 8,298 sqft provides significant potential for expansion or additional units.
  • Why these metrics matter for renovation:
    • The low initial cost per square foot allows for substantial renovation budgets, while the large lot size opens up possibilities for additional units or outdoor enhancements, increasing overall property value.
  • Recommended renovation ideas: Consider adding an ADU, modernizing interiors, and enhancing outdoor spaces for better functionality.
  • View on Redfin

1008 Van Pelt Ave, East Los Angeles, CA 90063 — $499,000

  • Beds/Baths/Sqft: 2 bd / 1 ba / 1,038 sqft
  • Price per SqFt: $481
  • Lot size: 3,903 sqft
  • Year Built / Type: 1949 / Multi-Family (2-4 Unit)
  • Status / Last Sale: Listed (Active) / $499,000 Aug 11, 2025
  • Summary: This duplex presents a prime fix-and-flip opportunity with a front 2-bedroom unit and a back 1-bedroom unit, perfect for rental income.
  • Renovation rationale:
    • Affordable price per square foot at $481.
    • Usable lot size of 3,903 sqft allows for potential enhancements or expansions.
  • Why these metrics matter for renovation:
    • The reasonable price per square foot allows for a manageable renovation budget, while the lot size can accommodate further development or outdoor improvements, making it an attractive investment.
  • Recommended renovation ideas: Update both units for modern appeal, increase energy efficiency, and enhance outdoor areas for tenant attraction.
  • View on Redfin

642 E 136th St, Los Angeles, CA 90059 — $620,000

  • Beds/Baths/Sqft: 3 bd / 2 ba / 1,251 sqft
  • Price per SqFt: $496
  • Lot size: 4,995 sqft
  • Year Built / Type: 1956 / Single Family Residential
  • Status / Last Sale: Relisted (Active) / —
  • Summary: This home features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, offering a solid foundation for renovation and personalization.
  • Renovation rationale:
    • Competitive price per square foot at $496.
    • Usable lot size of 4,995 sqft allows for outdoor enhancements or expansions.
  • Why these metrics matter for renovation:
    • The reasonable price per square foot enables a flexible renovation budget, while the usable lot size provides opportunities for outdoor improvements, which can significantly enhance resale value.
  • Recommended renovation ideas: Modernize the kitchen and bathrooms, enhance outdoor living spaces, and improve energy efficiency.
  • View on Redfin

16857 Colven Rd, Granada Hills, CA 91344 — $1,799,000

  • Beds/Baths/Sqft: 3 bd / 2.5 ba / 2,516 sqft
  • Price per SqFt: $715
  • Lot size: 20,564 sqft
  • Year Built / Type: 1965 / Single Family Residential
  • Status / Last Sale: Listed (Active) / $1,799,000 Aug 7, 2025
  • Summary: This beautifully upgraded home on a large lot features a sunroom and pool house, ideal for a retreat or studio.
  • Renovation rationale:
    • Large lot size of 20,564 sqft offers tremendous potential for outdoor improvements or additional structures.
  • Why these metrics matter for renovation:
    • The sizable lot allows for extensive renovations and the potential for increased property value, especially with the addition of outdoor amenities or additional living spaces.
  • Recommended renovation ideas: Enhance the outdoor areas, update the interior finishes, and explore the potential for an ADU.
  • View on Redfin

You make renovation potential so obvious in each listing.

Appreciate how you explained why lot size matters for upgrades.