The Westside of Los Angeles is home to some of the most architecturally diverse neighborhoods in the country. From classic Spanish revivals in Cheviot Hills and mid-century residences in Rancho Park to luxury condos in Century City and historic estates in Westwood, homebuyers often face a range of choices—not only in style and layout, but also in age.
While newer homes may promise fewer maintenance needs, older homes often deliver character, location advantages, and long-term value. Understanding how age affects a property's market value is a critical part of making an informed real estate decision in competitive markets like Santa Monica and beyond.
Age Isn’t Just a Number—It’s a Market Indicator
In Los Angeles real estate, a home’s age often signals more than its construction date. It can indicate design trends, building standards, system updates, and energy efficiency. In Westside neighborhoods where development spans decades, home age often overlaps with zoning shifts and changes in architectural priorities.
Generally speaking:
- Newer homes (built within the past 10–15 years) are valued for modern systems, open layouts, and energy efficiency
- Mid-century homes (built between the 1940s–1970s) offer strong bones and often benefit from post-construction renovations
- Older homes (pre-1940s) tend to be rich in architectural detail but may require updates to plumbing, electrical, and structural elements
Each age category holds appeal to different types of buyers. Understanding what drives those preferences can help both buyers and sellers make smarter decisions.
How Buyers Evaluate Home Age
Buyers on the Westside don’t always seek the newest home on the market. In fact, many actively search for properties that reflect the architectural history of the area. However, they still weigh age-related factors carefully.
Typical buyer considerations include:
- System Updates: Has the home been retrofitted for seismic safety? Are plumbing and electrical systems up to modern standards?
- Renovation Quality: Were upgrades completed by licensed professionals with permits? Was the layout reconfigured to match current living trends?
- Maintenance History: Has the roof, HVAC, or foundation been recently addressed? Are there signs of deferred maintenance?
- Historic Integrity: Does the home retain original design elements, and are those features in good condition?
A well-maintained older home with tasteful upgrades often outperforms newer builds in resale value—particularly in neighborhoods with limited turnover or where new construction is restricted.
Location Can Offset Age
or example, may date back to the 1920s or 1930s, but their proximity to UCLA, local parks, and cultural institutions keeps demand strong. In Santa Monica, older beachside properties hold consistent appeal because of their walkability and ocean access.
Key location advantages that can enhance the value of an older home include:
- Short commute times to business districts
- Walkability to restaurants, shops, or cultural venues
- Limited new development in the area
In neighborhoods like Cheviot Hills and Rancho Park, it’s not uncommon for buyers to pay a premium for older homes if the lot, street, or surrounding community meets their long-term goals.
When Newer Construction Wins
Although many older homes hold their value well, newer properties often carry a price advantage in specific scenarios. This is especially true when buyers prioritize move-in-ready convenience, efficiency, or a particular aesthetic.
Modern construction typically includes:
- Open floor plans designed for today’s lifestyle
- High ceilings, recessed lighting, and large windows
- Updated energy codes and green certifications
- New plumbing, electrical, and roof systems with manufacturer warranties
In Century City and parts of Santa Monica where new development continues, buyers looking for a sleek, low-maintenance property often gravitate toward newer builds. These homes may also appeal to buyers relocating from outside the area who want minimal renovation work.
How to Maximize the Value of an Older Home
If you’re a seller listing a home that’s more than a few decades old, strategic upgrades and thoughtful positioning can significantly increase buyer interest.
Sellers should focus on:
- System Improvements: Upgrading plumbing, HVAC, and electrical systems helps buyers feel confident about the home’s condition.
- Floor Plan Adjustments: Removing non-structural walls or opening common areas can make older homes feel more in line with today’s design preferences.
- Preserving Charm: Original crown molding, hardwood floors, or tilework can be standout features if well-maintained.
- Curb Appeal: Refreshing paint, landscaping, and lighting can elevate first impressions and help older homes compete with newer listings.
Buyers looking in older neighborhoods often expect some level of historic character, but still want modern functionality. Balancing the two is key to achieving a strong market position.
When Home Age Affects Appraisal
During a transaction, the age of a home can also influence the appraised value. Appraisers will evaluate:
- Comparable sales of similarly aged homes
- The quality and scope of recent renovations
- Structural integrity and updated systems
- Compliance with local building and safety codes
In some cases, an older home in excellent condition with permitted upgrades may appraise higher than a newer home with limited square footage or a less favorable location.
A local agent can help sellers prepare documentation that highlights the home’s value, such as renovation records, inspection reports, and historical permits.
What Buyers Should Ask
When touring older homes on the Westside, buyers should ask targeted questions that go beyond aesthetics. These can uncover potential costs or negotiation points.
Important questions include:
- When were the roof, foundation, and major systems last updated?
- Are there any active warranties on renovations or appliances?
- Is the home subject to historic preservation guidelines or restrictions?
- Have any major structural changes been made since construction?
With the right approach, age becomes a point of context rather than a liability.
Contact Heyler Realty
Heyler Realty understands how home age, condition, and location intersect to influence market value across Westside Los Angeles. Their team works with buyers and sellers in Cheviot Hills, Rancho Park, Century City, Santa Monica, and Westwood, offering insight into how each property fits into current pricing trends. From classic architectural homes to newly constructed residences, they provide the guidance clients need to make confident, informed decisions.
Whether you’re evaluating an older home for purchase or preparing to list one on the market, Heyler Realty can help position your property for success. Their deep local knowledge, pricing expertise, and tailored marketing approach make them a trusted partner in Westside real estate. Reach out to Heyler Realty today to learn more about how home age may affect your next move.
