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201 Orange Grove Avenue, South Pasadena, California 91030, South Pasadena, 91030 - 7 bed, 8 bath

201 Orange Grove Avenue, South Pasadena, California 91030 home-pic-0
ACTIVE$3,499,000
201 Orange Grove Avenue, South Pasadena, California 91030
7Beds
8Baths
5,535Sqft
2,572,654Lot
Year Built
1887
Close
-
List price
$3.5M
Original List price
$3.95M
Price/Sqft
$632
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
SR25200378
Home ConditionPoor
Features
Good View: City Lights, Neighborhood
Pool
Patio
ViewCity Lights,Neighborhood

About this home

We found 3 Cons,6 Pros. Rank: price - $3.50M(89th), sqft - 5535(97th), beds - 7(98th), baths - 8(98th).

Historic Estate Victorian Home! Step into South Pasadena’s storied past at The Bissell House, a Queen Anne Victorian estate built in 1887 on an expansive half-acre corner lot along the city’s prestigious Millionaire’s Row. This iconic historic property spans 5,535 sq. ft. across three stately levels and features 7 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, plus a separate pool house and two-car garage.Once home to Anna Bissell McCay, daughter of the famed Bissell vacuum family, and her husband William S. McCay, an architect, this residence is steeped in Pasadena history and architectural artistry. Signature details include Tiffany stained-glass windows, Edwardian clawfoot tubs, ornate woodwork, and a rare Sedgwick elevator, all speaking to the home’s craftsmanship and legacy. While the estate retains its timeless charm, it is being offered in as-is condition and presents a remarkable restoration opportunity. With updates, and modern improvements, this property is ideal for a visionary buyer seeking to restore, reimagine, or reinvent a true architectural treasure. Formerly operated as a bed-and-breakfast and wedding venue, the Bissell House offers income potential or the chance to create a one-of-a-kind private residence. Surrounded by lush gardens, mature trees, and historic character, this home sits near Old Town Pasadena, the Pasadena Convention Center, and the Rose Parade starting point—providing both heritage and location appeal. Experience the magic of Pasadena’s past while shaping its next chapter with this rare historic estate on a generous lot, awaiting its next steward.

Price History

Date
Event
Price
11/26/25
Price Change
$3,499,000-11.4%
09/20/25
Listing
$3,950,000
Condition Rating
Poor
Built in 1887, this historic estate is explicitly offered in 'as-is condition' and described as a 'remarkable restoration opportunity.' The kitchens are extremely dated with old appliances (including a coil cooktop and an older commercial-style range), worn cabinets, and outdated flooring and fixtures. All bathrooms feature original-style clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, and small, old tiles, indicating a complete lack of modern updates and requiring full renovation. General interior spaces show significant wear, dated light fixtures, and older flooring/carpets, suggesting that major systems like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC are likely original or very old and would require substantial upgrades to meet contemporary living standards and comfort.
Pros & Cons

Pros

High Available Lot Utilization: The property has a large lot size, which is more than 4 times of its living area. lot size in square feet = 2572654, living area = 5535.
Historic & Architectural Masterpiece: A Queen Anne Victorian estate (The Bissell House, 1887) with significant historical provenance, featuring unique architectural details like Tiffany stained-glass, ornate woodwork, and a rare Sedgwick elevator.
Prime & Prestigious Location: Situated on South Pasadena's 'Millionaire’s Row' on an expansive half-acre corner lot, offering proximity to Old Town Pasadena, the Convention Center, and Rose Parade route.
Expansive Estate with Amenities: A substantial 5,535 sq. ft. property with 7 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, a separate pool house, and a two-car garage, providing ample space and facilities.
Versatile Income Potential: Previously operated as a bed-and-breakfast and wedding venue, presenting a unique opportunity for commercial income or a grand private residence.
Aesthetic Appeal & Views: Boasts lush gardens, mature trees, and desirable 'City Lights, Neighborhood' views, enhancing its overall charm and appeal.

Cons

Extensive Restoration Required: Offered in 'as-is condition' and explicitly noted as a 'remarkable restoration opportunity,' indicating a need for significant financial and time investment for updates and modern improvements.
High Ongoing Costs: As a large, historic estate, it will likely incur substantial ongoing expenses for maintenance, utilities, insurance, and potential historical preservation requirements.
Recent Price Reduction: The property has seen a significant price reduction from its original listing ($3.95M to $3.499M), which may suggest initial overpricing or challenges in attracting a buyer willing to undertake the necessary restoration.

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