42 21st Street, Hermosa Beach, California 90254, Hermosa Beach, 90254 - 3 bed, 3 bath

42 21st Street, Hermosa Beach, California 90254 home-pic-0
ACTIVE$4,375,000
42 21st Street, Hermosa Beach, California 90254
3Beds
3Baths
1,977Sqft
2,851Lot
Year Built
1938
Close
-
List price
$4.38M
Original List price
$43.75M
Price/Sqft
$2,213
HOA
-
Days on market
-
Sold On
-
MLS number
SB25131757
Home ConditionFair
Features
Excellent View: Ocean
Deck
Patio
ViewOcean

About this home

We found 3 Cons,6 Pros. Rank: price - $4.38M(83th), sqft - 1977(33th), beds - 3(75th), baths - 3(75th).

Tucked along one of Hermosa Beach’s most cherished walk-streets, 42 21st Street is a rare gem—a perfect blend of classic beach bungalow charm and timeless California retreat. Where front patios double as outdoor living rooms and the ocean is just steps from your door, this is the kind of home that rarely comes up and never lasts long. Inside, vintage character shines through beamed ceilings, brick accents, and warm wood floors. The open living area flows seamlessly into a bright kitchen featuring bar seating and classic coastal touches, while natural light pours in from every angle. The home currently lives as two separate units: the front house opens up to a sunny walk-street patio and features 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, including a primary suite with its own bath. Through another charming brick patio, the back unit is a cozy 1-bedroom, 1-bath with an open layout downstairs and a large deck off the bedroom, offering multiple options for indoor and outdoor living. Legally zoned for three units but comfortably living as two, this property presents exciting possibilities for the next owner. This is Hermosa Beach at its best: walkable, welcoming, and alive with community spirit. Whether you’re seeking a soulful beach escape or a smart long-term investment in one of Southern California’s most coveted neighborhoods, 42 21st Street offers a front-row seat to the beach lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.

Nearby schools

10/10
Hermosa View Elementary School
Public,K-30.7mi
9/10
Opal Robinson Elementary School
Public,K-50.7mi
8/10
Hermosa Valley Elementary School
Public,4-80.4mi
9/10
Manhattan Beach Middle School
Public,6-81.9mi
9/10
Mira Costa High School
Public,9-120.8mi

Price History

Date
Event
Price
04/06/06
Sold
$2,000,000
Condition Rating
Fair

Built in 1938, this property retains significant vintage charm and appears well-maintained. However, the kitchen features older-style white cabinetry, basic tile flooring, and mixed appliances, suggesting updates that are not recent or high-end. Bathrooms also show dated finishes, such as granite-look countertops and older fixtures, despite being clean and functional. While livable and charming, the property's age and the condition of key areas like the kitchen and bathrooms indicate it would benefit from minor updates to meet current aesthetic and functional standards, aligning with a 'Fair' condition.
Pros & Cons

Pros

Great Schools: Elementary School: Hermosa View Elementary School (10/10). Middle School: Manhattan Beach Middle School (9/10). High School: Mira Costa High School (9/10).
Premier Beachfront Location: Situated on a cherished Hermosa Beach walk-street, just steps from the ocean, offering an unparalleled beach lifestyle and strong community appeal.
Ocean Views: The property boasts direct ocean views, significantly enhancing its desirability and market value.
Significant Income & Development Potential: Legally zoned for three units and currently configured as a duplex, providing immediate rental income and future development opportunities.
Historic Charm & Character: Retains classic beach bungalow charm with vintage architectural details such as beamed ceilings, brick accents, and warm wood floors.
Top-Rated School Access: Located within a highly-regarded school district with excellent elementary, middle, and high schools nearby.

Cons

Property Age & Potential Upgrades: Built in 1938, the property may require significant investment for system updates (e.g., plumbing, electrical, HVAC) or modernization to meet contemporary standards.
Conversion/Renovation Costs: While zoned for three units, converting from the current two-unit configuration or optimizing existing units for maximum return will likely involve substantial renovation expenses.
Limited Lot Size: The 2,851 sqft lot is relatively compact, which could restrict future expansion plans or the creation of extensive private outdoor living spaces.

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