Pasadena Moving Forward with Caltrans Property Sales

On June 23, 2025, the Pasadena City Council authorized the sale of 17 vacant properties acquired or to be acquired from Caltrans, pursuant to SB 959 (Portantino, 2022), for no less than the appraised value. All 17 properties were targeted for demolition in connection with the construction of the State Route 710 (SR-710) North project. Under SB 959, the City has purchase priority for vacant surplus residential properties located within its borders at the original Caltrans' acquisition price.

SB 959 requires the City to fund 3 affordable units for every Caltrans unit purchased, using sales proceeds from its own subsequent sale. Accordingly, the City will use these proceeds to finance the development of much-needed affordable housing. Four smaller, non-historic properties have been identified by the City as potentially suitable for affordable homeownership. The City must deploy the sales proceeds towards affordable housing by December 31, 2026.

City staff have worked with local brokers from DPP | Compass, Sotheby's International Realty, and Mutual Realty Consultants. Together, they developed a comprehensive marketing and sales strategy for the other 13 properties. All will be listed on the MLS for fair market value.

It's anticipated that marketing of the first 10 properties will begin the week of September 28, 2025. Marketing for the additional three addresses will commence in October 2025.

All properties will be sold as-is, in their current condition. All sold properties will be subject to deed restrictions, requiring the buyer to repair the properties and ensure occupancy within reasonable timeframes.

"We are excited that these properties are finally going to market to generate much-needed affordable housing funds," said the City's Housing Director, James Wong.

"Pasadena's architectural beauty has always reflected its civic spirit, and today's release of these homes is a moment to rise to the challenge with heart. This is more than real estate; it is about renewal, stewardship, and ensuring that these properties once again serve families and strengthen the community. Being entrusted with that responsibility is both humbling and inspiring." - Michael Slaughter, Mutual Realty Consultants

"After decades of sitting vacant, 13 Caltrans homes are finally being offered to the public, giving potential buyers the opportunity to restore properties within designated historical sections of the city, bringing them back to life and enhancing the neighborhoods in which they're situated in the process." - Bill Podley, DPP | Compass

"Pasadena has long been known for its architectural legacy, and these homes have been eagerly awaited by the public. To be entrusted with presenting them to the market is both a privilege and a responsibility that I take very seriously." Michael B. Bell, Sotheby's International Realty

Information regarding the purchase process for these properties is available at PasadenaCaltransProperties.com. Virtual viewings, photographs, and individual property information are also available on the website. Showings will be scheduled at predetermined times once the outlined showing requirements are met.

Properties To Be Listed in September:

• 269 Palmetto Drive - Michael Slaughter, Mutual Realty Consultants
• 696 St. John Avenue - Michael Slaughter, Mutual Realty Consultants
• 734 St. John Avenue - Michael Slaughter, Mutual Realty Consultants
• 888 Pasadena Avenue - Michael B. Bell, Sotheby's International Realty
• 894 & 894B Pasadena Avenue - Michael B. Bell, Sotheby's International Realty
• 1112 Pasadena Avenue - Michael B. Bell, Sotheby's International Realty
• 1200 Pasadena Avenue - Bill Podley & Team (DPP | Compass)
• 215 Madeline Drive - Michael B. Bell, Sotheby's International Realty
• 218 Madeline Drive - Bill Podley & Team (DPP | Compass)
• 225 State Street - Bill Podley & Team (DPP | Compass)

Properties Coming Soon:

• 584 St. John Avenue & 230/230 A California Boulevard - Michael Slaughter, Mutual Realty Consultants
• 180 State Street - Bill Podley & Team (DPP | Compass)