Long Beach Craftsman Bungalow with Private Pub: Is It Worth $1.25M?

A 1920 Craftsman bungalow in Long Beach, California, is on the market for $1,250,000, a premium price largely justified by its most unique feature: a full-size, private Irish pub located in a converted carriage house. This property at 1,386 square feet sits on a 6,000-square-foot lot in the historic Bluff Heights neighborhood. While the home itself has been meticulously preserved with original details, the standout amenity is the professional-grade entertainment space, making it a one-of-a-kind listing in the 90803 ZIP code, where the median price per square foot is currently around $794.

What Are the Interior Features of This Historic Long Beach Home?

Extensive efforts were made to align the home’s design with its 1920s origins. Upon entering, you are greeted by original hardwood flooring, wood molding, and casement windows. The living room features a cozy original fireplace and mantel, while the dining room includes a box ceiling and French doors with stained glass. Nearly wall-length, built-in wardrobes in two of the three bedrooms provide ample storage and showcase gorgeous dark wood stains, characteristic of the Craftsman style. One of the two bathrooms retains an original cast-iron, claw-foot tub. The kitchen is equipped with a vintage O'Keefe & Merritt stove, reinforcing the historic charm. These features contribute to the home's character but are typical for a well-maintained bungalow in this area.

What Makes the Outdoor Space and Amenities Exceptional?

The property's value proposition extends significantly beyond the main house. The lot includes native landscaping and a long driveway draped with beautiful wisteria. For outdoor entertaining, there is a covered patio and a dedicated dining area with a garden, greenhouses, and a permanent metal structure adorned with fairy lights. The home also boasts an underground wine cellar. However, the primary attraction is the detached structure. Dubbed "Welch’s Bar & Grill," the converted carriage house is a fully realized Irish pub, complete with comfy leather chairs, a mirrored bar, beer taps, and dark wood finishes. This unique space offers a dedicated entertainment area unmatched by typical residential properties.

How Does the Price Compare to the Long Beach Real Estate Market?

Priced at just over $900 per square foot, this home commands a premium over the neighborhood's median. The last sale recorded was in 1999 for $285,000. Based on our experience assessment, the nearly $1 million price increase reflects both general market appreciation and the significant value added by the unique pub amenity. While the square footage of the main house is relatively modest, the 6,000-square-foot lot and the permitted, high-quality outdoor structures justify a higher price point. This property is not directly comparable to standard homes; its value is highly specialized for a buyer seeking a turnkey entertainment property.

Conclusion: Is This the Right Property for You?

This Craftsman bungalow is more than a home; it's a lifestyle property designed for entertaining. The key consideration for a potential buyer is the utility of the private pub. If you value unique entertainment spaces and historic charm, this property offers a compelling, one-of-a-kind opportunity. However, if your needs are centered solely on the square footage of the primary dwelling, the price per square foot may seem elevated. The investment is in the experience and the unique outdoor amenities that are rare to find in any market.