Novato Home Prices Set New Records!
Top 5 Most Expensive Homes Sold in Novato in 2021
The Town of Ross Again Features Prominently in the
Top 10 Most Expensive Homes Sold in Marin in 2021
My Listing (above) at 5 Norwood Avenue in Ross Sold in One Day for $505,000 Over Asking
Novato Home Prices Set New Records in 2021
Top 5 Most Expensive Homes Sold in Novato in 2021
Novato home prices have surged in the past two years to new heights. The median home price in Novato increased to $1.4mm in April of 2021, and hovered between $1.3-$1.4 million for the remainder of the year.
The Novato luxury home market also set records in 2021. I sold the most expensive homes in Novato in 2020 AND 2021, as well as the second highest-priced home in Novato in 2021. Ten properties sold in 2021 at or above the $3M mark versus just two in 2020 and none in 2019. This is a good indicator that Novato is appealing to more higher-end buyers. For comparison, the highest-priced home sold in Novato in 2016 was $2,895,000 (see chart below).
So why the surge in Novato home prices? Here are some of the reasons:
- Central & southern Marin home prices are also booming but Novato was the most affordable area so it had more room to increase: As buyers are priced out of central and southern Marin, they are looking towards Novato where homes have traditionally been more affordable.
- More workers working from home: One of the lasting impacts of the pandemic is that more workers are working from home more of the time. In years past, Novato was considered a more challenging commute to San Francisco and home prices reflected that. Fewer commuters plus the option of the SMART train have made Novato a more attractive option.
- Migration from SF and South of SF: In 2020 and 2021, buyers who had never considered Novato started looking and buying in the area. This was particularly true for buyers coming from San Francisco, the Peninsula and Silicon Valley. No longer tethered to an office, they realized they could get much more for their money in Novato including more outdoor space.
- Small-town character: Buyers today are looking for small-town character where they can either walk to everything or drive to a small downtown and visit a variety of shops and services. Novato’s thriving Grant Avenue is the town’s “main street” and features a vibrant culinary and shopping scene. The area features a variety of restaurants, financial services providers and even a California DMV office. My Novato friends and clients say there’s “no reason to leave town!”
- Home dollars go farther in Novato: While Novato home prices have surged, they are still a value relative to central and southern Marin County.
My Novato Business is Stronger Than Ever
My stunning listing at 1100 Cabro Ridge sold for $4,275,000 which was the highest-priced sale in 2021 and the second highest sales price ever in Novato (one property sold higher in 2014). My co-listing at 25 Alpine Road sold for $4,195,000 which was the second highest-priced sale in 2021.
I was also pleased to represent other beautiful properties in Novato in 2021 including 70 Miwok Drive which sold just over the list price at $2,500,000, 212 Pacheco Avenue which sold in one week for $1,850,000 – $155,000 over asking, and 2102 Feliz Drive which sold for $1,200,000 – $115,000 over asking in just 4 days.
In 2020, I sold 611 Fairway Drive for $3,025,000 which at the time was the highest-priced home sold in Novato in more than 5 years. I did receive calls from some agents who said “Really? Over $3mm in Novato?!?” but I knew with the proper presentation and marketing I could help my sellers attain their goals.
Call or text me at 415-847-5584 to discuss how I can help you attain your real estate goals.
#1
The Most Expensive Home Sold in Novato in 2021:
Thomas Henthorne Sold 1100 Cabro Ridge for $4,275,000
#1 – The most expensive home sale in Novato in 2021 was 1100 Cabro Ridge which sold for the record-breaking price of $4,275,000. Here is my description from the original property marketing materials: “This magnificent private ridgetop estate boasts captivating 360-degree views of the bay and surrounding hills from 500 feet above sea level. Located just 20 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, 1100 Cabro Ridge is ideally situated at the end of a private drive on 11+ pristine acres. The property is surrounded by permanent open space on two sides ensuring a level of privacy and tranquility rarely found. This grand Palladian estate offers over 7,600 sq ft of luxurious living space including a spectacular great room with soaring 20 ft ceilings, formal dining room, open concept kitchen/family room, 5 spacious ensuite bedrooms with the master suite on the main level, 6 full baths and 3 half baths, a private office suite (optional sixth bedroom) with 2 offices and a detached pool casita/guest house.”
In addition to the cinematic property video we produced for the estate, I also commissioned a “movie trailer” to draw additional interest from buyers. It was very well-received on social media and from potential buyers as well as my fellow agents. Click here to see the property website and videos.
#2
The Second Most Expensive Home Sold in Novato in 2021:
25 Alpine Road Sold on 10/7/2021 for $4,195,000
Co-Listed with the Sarkissian-Bullock Team
#2 -I also had the privilege of selling the second most expensive home in Novato in 2021, in conjunction with my good friends at the Sarkissian-Bullock team. 25 Alpine Road closed on 10/7/2021 for $4,195,000. Here’s the original property description of this expansive estate: “Welcome to one of Marin County’s grand estates, perched atop a private knoll at the end of prestigious Alpine Road in the exclusive Greenpoint neighborhood. Situated on 5.27 acres with commanding views of the Marin countryside and Mount Tamalpais, this opulent 5 BR / 5.5 BA 6,785 square foot gated estate is adorned with custom architectural details and top-of-the-line premium finishes throughout. Designed for entertaining, the home’s open-concept kitchen and large-scale rooms flow effortlessly out to multiple outdoor living areas including a stunning central courtyard, reminiscent of a boutique resort with its spacious, private patio and inviting pool. “ Please click here to see the full property website.
#3
The Third Most Expensive Home Sold in Novato in 2021:
540 Wilson Avenue Sold for $3,815,000 on 4/1/2021
Property Video Courtesy Suzie Fitzpatric
#3 – The third most expensive home sold in Novato in 2021 was 540 Wilson Avenue which sold on 4/1/2021 for $3,815,000. The property description reads: “Exclusively situated along a private gated drive leading to a motor court lies one of Novato’s most luxurious estates, custom built to the highest standards. This stately residence seamlessly combines outdoor living with an open floorplan, offering year-round resort living. Sited on three plus acres of flat land, complete with a sparkling pool, covered portico with a fireplace and Syrah vineyard, this approximately 6,935 square foot estate features single-level living with four bedrooms, three full and two one-half baths and a detached nearly 1,100 square foot casita.” The property was represented by Suzie Fitzpatric.
#4
The Fourth Most Expensive Home Sold in Novato in 2021:
35 Wali Trail Sold on 3/17/2021 for $3,500,000
#4 – The fourth most expensive home sold in Novato in 2021 was once owned by a founder of the rock band Metallica, according to this article. The home sold for $3,500,00 on 3/17/2021. The property description reads: “Nature & imagination harmoniously meet in this grand-scale mansion, impressively designed with spaciousness & light infused living spaces, discreetly positioned on a lavish 5+ acre parcel amongst mature oaks, rare plantings & meandering magical pathways. Conceptually intended to provide ultimate seclusion, the home rests serenely at the end of a private gated roadway with only 2 other homes. The exceptional rear yard is highlighted by a massive rock border with cascading waterfall & pool/spa reminiscent of Hawaiian landscapes. A unique entertainers paradise, it is ideal for year round outdoor festivities featuring an exquisitely crafted, rustic style stone & finely hewn wood cabana. Created with flair & imagination,a former owner/world renown musician, crafted a separate wing with professional sound studio, vocal booth & art/work room. Ideal for offices, gym & guest quarters as well. Overflowing with delightful possibilities and one of the most spectacular of Marin County estates.” The property was represented by Jean Mastagni.
#5
The Fifth Most Expensive Home Sold in Novato in 2021:
2027 Hatch Road Sold on 4/22/2021 for $3,305,000
Property Video Courtesy Lucinda Otto and Justin Palmer
#5 – The fifth most expensive home sold in Novato in 2021 was 2061 Hatch Road which sold on 4/22/2021 for $3,305,000. The property description from MLS reads: “Tucked back on one of Indian Valley’s favorite tree-lined streets, this modern farmhouse is your opportunity for both a home and a lifestyle. Surrounded by a wrap-around porch, the main level enjoys spacious public rooms including a living room and grand dining room. The updated eat-in chef’s kitchen boasts a commercial Wolf range, and flows to a cozy family room. An elegant curved staircase leads to the upper level which has four generous bedrooms, three full baths, and a large attic for storage. French doors open to landscaped grounds featuring lawns, gardens, pool, patio & pergola-covered dining area with built-in BBQ for quintessential California indoor-outdoor living. The garden w/ raised planter beds will bring your farm-to-table dreams to life. The gazebo provides a private escape, or hang a hammock in the redwood grove for summer afternoon naps. Rock out in the detached, professional-grade recording studio, or use it as a home office, gym, media room or guest cottage.” The property was represented by Lucinda Otto and Justin Palmer.
All photos and videos above are courtesy of the agents who represented the properties and of BAREIS MLS Service, all rights reserved.
I hope you have enjoyed seeing the top 5 most expensive homes that were sold in Novato in 2021. Congratulations to the buyers and sellers of these lovely properties!
I have been fortunate to represent some of Marin County’s most beautiful homes — please click here if you would like to see some of the properties I have sold. I also take great pleasure in helping buyers find their dream homes.
If I may be of any assistance with your Marin County real estate needs, please call or text me at +1.415.847.5584.
About the Author
Thomas Henthorne is consistently top-ranked, award-winning real estate agent in Marin, helping people buy and sell homes for almost a decade. He writes the #1 real estate blog in Marin County and is a frequent speaker on panels at industry gatherings.
He may be reached at 415-847-5584.
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