Is There A Pasadena Pied-A-Terre In Your Future?
Have you ever wanted a historic pied-a-terre in Pasadena? Then The Barcelona might be a good choice for you.
This is a real estate market activity report for The Barcelona condominium complex with results so far in 2016 along with a recap of full year sales dating back to 2013. Statistical information has been gathered from our local multiple listing service(mls) as of may not include all transactions in the complex
The Barcelona is located at 85 North Madison Avenue (northwest corner of Union Street) in the Pasadena Playhouse District not far from Pasadena City Hall. Formerly own-your-own apartments and now condominiums, the building is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Enter the circa 1922 building through a controlled access intercom and find the lobby with its original reception desk which opens to an intimate salon. With its high ceiling, hardwood floors and abundant windows, it invites the opportunity to linger and reflect.
The Barcelona consists of studio and one bedroom units. They range in approximate size from under 300 to nearly 800 square feet. While many of the units here redefine the word compact, the location and the historic aspect of the building are the draw. The 
period birdcage elevator adds to the old world ambiance. Don’t expect to find in unit laundry connections but there are common laundry facilities in the basement where you will also find a small storage area. There is an on-site manager and parking is off-site(separate monthly fee).
Located just north of Colorado Boulevard and the annual Rose Parade route, residents are close to Paseo Colorado, Playhouse District, South Lake Avenue and Old Pasadena. Due to its central location, it is highly convenient to transportation(freeway and light rail) as well as museums, restaurants, shops and boutiques, theaters and much more. According to the walkscore website the location as very walkable where most daily errands can be accomplished by foot.
There is currently one unit available for sale at The Barcelona. It is located on the third floor and has approximately 502 square feet and is offered at $325,000. There has been one closed sale so far in 2016 according to mls reports. Closing in March, the unit featured approximately 676 square feet and sold for $330,000(last list price $349,000).
There was one mls-reported closed transaction in 2015. A third floor residence had approximately 772 square feet and closed for $350,000(list price $355,000) in May.
There were two sales in 2014. One was a top floor corner studio unit with approximately 487 square feet which closed for $270,000. The other featured about 700 square feet and sold for $379,000.
There were also two sales in 2013. A top floor unit with no common walls and approximately 772 square feet sold for $375,000 and a studio unit(about 472 square feet) closed for $205,000.
As you will discover at The Barcelona -- condition and market timing are definite factors to consider when looking at value. 
Obviously the size of the units will not be the right fit for everyone.
Whether your tastes lean to historic properties, something more modern or perhaps an entirely different style --- let me act as your guide and advisor for Pasadena real estate. I can be reached at 818.516.4393 cell.
Published: June 29, 2016
Is There A Pasadena Pied-A-Terre In Your Future?
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