Want a mansion? What $1 million buys in today’s Fresno housing market
Once upon a time, a million bucks could buy you a mansion.
But in today’s reality? Not really.
Not with today’s housing prices.
Even in Fresno — where the cost of living is significantly lower compared to California cities along the coast — it’s difficult to find a 5,000-plus-square-foot house (mansion-size minimum) that offers luxury living for $1 million.
And, of course, luxury living can be subjective.
Here are three examples of what $1 million could get you in Fresno. Plus, a $1 million listing just outside of the city limit.
605 E. Home Ave, Fresno, CA 93728
House size: (5 bedroom, 5 bath, 5,001 square feet)
Lot size: 0.34 acres
Asking price: $825,000
Highlights: Located less than a mile from both Fresno City College and Fresno High, this is a corner house at Echo and Home avenues in “Wilson Island.” And it is the only current listing in Fresno that meets the 5,000-square foot minimum to be considered a mansion and still costs less than $1 million. And while this home might not be as extravagant as houses once seen in throwback TV shows such as “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” or “MTV Cribs,” there’s plenty of personality in this property. As well as a pool.
4872 N. Arcade Ave., Fresno, CA 93704
House size: (4 bedroom, 2 bath, 3,055 square feet)
Lot size: 0.34 acres
Asking price: $1.1 million
Highlights: Located in the Old Fig Garden Estates and a mere 0.2 miles from Fig Garden Village shopping area, this “Modern California Ranch” home offers a distinct, natural wood look interior from its flooring to ceiling, as well as its walls and cabinetry. Think country-look living but with city convenience at a walking distance. The home also comes with a detached casita complete with a full kitchen and laundry room that could be used for office space or as a rental.
1368 E. Waldon Way, Fresno, CA 93730
House size: (4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3,084 square feet)
Lot size: 0.30 acres
Asking price: $1.1 million
Highlights: This is a custom Gary McDonald home on a large lot on a cul-de-sac street in Country Club at the Fort (a gated neighborhood close by Fort Washington Golf & Country Club). It’s 2,000 square feet less than what would be considered a mansion size. But there’s plenty of fancy details inside and outside with this home — from the crown moulding, french doors, grand fountain and a covered outdoor entertainment structure that features a fireplace.
14505 Blue Drake Lane, Prather, CA 93651
House size: (6 bedroom, 4 bath, 4,074 square feet)
Lot size: 5.05 acres
Asking price: $1.1 million
Highlights: Located about a 35-minute drive from downtown Fresno, this Prather home definitely has the curb appeal, as well as the land, of a $1 million mansion. Though, it still falls roughly 1,000 square feet from reaching that mansion minimum size. “Besides this being a beautiful home, you get some spectacular views from inside this house,” listing sales agent Jeri Kuddes said. You get more for your money coming outside of the city.”
