2505 Howe Street, Santa Cruz, California 95065, Santa Cruz, - bed, bath
ACTIVE$995,000
2505 Howe Street, Santa Cruz, California 95065
2Beds
1Bath
953Sqft
8,756Lot
Year Built
1963
Close
-
List price
$995K
Original List price
$1.1M
Price/Sqft
-
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
ML82012630
Home ConditionPoor
Features
Good View:
View-
About this home
Two homes (2505 Howe St & 3210 Winkle Ave) on one big parcel near Dominican Hospital, and across the street from Winkle Park. One of the homes is occupied by a tenant (who would like to stay); the other home needs substantial work because a tree fell on it. The tree is gone and the house is cleaned up, but is not livable. Perfect property for someone who wants a project with rental income at the same time. Huge potential! Ok to drive by, but do not disturb tenant. Two single-car garages, each with laundry room.
Price History
Date
Event
Price
10/02/25
Price Change
$995,000-9.5%
06/27/25
Listing
$1,099,000
Neighborhood Comparison
| Subject | Average Home | Neighbourhood Ranking (21 Listings) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beds | 2 | 3 | 14% |
| Baths | 1 | 2 | 18% |
| Square foot | 953 | 2,239 | 9% |
| Lot Size | 8,756 | 9,627 | 45% |
| Price | $995K | $1.35M | 9% |
| Price per square foot | $1,044 | $715 | 82% |
| Built year | 1963 | 9845986 | 41% |
| HOA | |||
| Days on market | 131 | 167 | 41% |
Condition Rating
Poor
The property consists of two homes. One home was built in 1963 (over 50 years ago) and is explicitly stated as 'not livable' due to a tree falling on it, requiring 'substantial work.' Images show a blue tarp on the roof of one house and an extremely dilapidated laundry room with peeling paint, stains, and debris, indicating significant neglect and damage. While the other home is tenant-occupied, the overall condition of the property is severely impacted by the unlivable structure, pushing it into the 'poor' category which requires substantial repairs and rehabilitation due to significant defects affecting safety or structural integrity.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Multi-Unit Income Potential: The property includes two homes on one parcel, with one currently tenant-occupied and generating immediate rental income, offering a strong investment opportunity.
Significant Value-Add Opportunity: The second home, requiring substantial renovation after a tree incident, presents a clear 'project' for a buyer to add significant value and increase future income or equity.
Prime Location: Situated near Dominican Hospital and directly across from Winkle Park, providing convenient access to essential services and recreational amenities.
Generous Lot Size: The 8,756 sqft lot offers ample space for potential expansion, landscaping, or creating private outdoor living areas in a desirable Santa Cruz location.
Recent Price Adjustment: A notable price reduction from $1,099,000 to $995,000 indicates increased seller motivation and potentially better value for a savvy buyer.
Cons
Extensive Renovation Required: One of the homes is currently uninhabitable and needs 'substantial work,' necessitating a significant financial investment and project management from the buyer.
Tenant Occupancy Constraints: The presence of a tenant in one unit (who wishes to stay) may limit immediate owner-occupancy options for that unit and could complicate renovation plans or property access.
Age of Structures: Built in 1963, the properties are older, suggesting potential for outdated systems, deferred maintenance, and a need for modernization beyond the damaged unit.