Welcome to ''Ona Rancho,'' a timeless piece of Palm Springs history with an extraordinary past. Nestled in the sought-after Tahquitz River Estates neighborhood, this 2,440 sq. ft. authentic Spanish-style home captures the romance of early California with its thick masonry walls, hand-painted tilework, and exposed wood beams.Steeped in Old Hollywood lore, this storied estate was once home to Ona Brown, former wife of Academy Award-nominated director Clarence Brown. While building plans list Will Rogers as the original owner, it was Ona who made the home legendary, hosting dazzling soirees that were often the talk of The Desert Sun. Adding to its Prohibition-era mystique, the property even features a bootlegger's basement with a hidden false wall--a relic of the days when Palm Springs was a discreet playground for the rich and famous.Designed for both entertainment and relaxation, the home offers three bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, and expansive living spaces that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. Throughout the home, rich hardwood flooring and classic Saltillo tiles enhance its warmth and character. Open the elegant French doors to let the desert breeze flow through or remain inside in the cool comfort provided by your newer HVAC systemSet on a nearly quarter-acre lot just minutes from downtown Palm Springs, this stunning property offers meticulously landscaped grounds that transform your home into a private oasis. The lush greenery and artfully arranged plantings provide a serene environment, perfect for relaxation. The property features a variety of citrus trees, providing both beauty and bounty with their fragrant blossoms and vibrant fruits. Palm trees sway gracefully in the desert breeze, adding a touch of tropical elegance to the landscape. Numerous decorative plantings are thoughtfully placed throughout the grounds, creating a picturesque setting that is both inviting and tranquil. Sip your morning coffee by the fountain, bask in the sun by the sparkling pool and spa or enjoy enchanting evenings surrounded by the glow of the landscape lighting. More than just a home, Ona Rancho is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Palm Springs' rich history. Whether you're searching for a full-time residence, a vacation retreat, or a distinguished investment property, this iconic estate invites you to become part of its enduring story.
Sold for $1,600,000 on 04/10/25
Listing Provided by:
Dick Sakowicz DRE #01719083 760-203-1133,
Re/Max Desert Properties
$1,600,000
285 E Palo Verde Ave, Palm Springs, CA 92264
3beds
2,440sqft
Single Family Residence
Built in 1934
9,583 Square Feet Lot
$1,600,300 Zestimate®
$656/sqft
$-- Estimated rent
What's special
Zillow last checked: 7 hours ago
Listing updated: April 10, 2025 at 12:21pm
Listing Provided by:
Dick Sakowicz DRE #01719083 760-203-1133,
Re/Max Desert Properties
Bought with:
TTK Represents, DRE #01327863
Compass
Source: CRMLS,MLS#: 219126102PS
Originating MLS: California Desert AOR & Palm Springs AOR

Facts & features
Interior
Bedrooms & bathrooms
- Bedrooms: 3
- Bathrooms: 3
- Full bathrooms: 2
- 3/4 bathrooms: 1
Heating
- Forced Air, Natural Gas
Cooling
- Central Air
Appliances
- Included: Dishwasher, Disposal, Gas Oven, Gas Range, Gas Water Heater, Refrigerator, Self Cleaning Oven, Vented Exhaust Fan
Features
- Beamed Ceilings, Brick Walls, Breakfast Area, Separate/Formal Dining Room, High Ceilings, Recessed Lighting, Storage, Track Lighting, Primary Suite, Walk-In Closet(s)
- Flooring: Concrete, Wood
- Windows: Double Pane Windows, Drapes, Skylight(s), Shutters
- Has basement: Yes
- Has fireplace: Yes
- Fireplace features: Den, Gas, Living Room, Masonry, Primary Bedroom, Raised Hearth, Wood Burning
Interior area
- Total interior livable area: 2,440 sqft
Property
Parking
- Total spaces: 6
- Parking features: Detached Carport
- Carport spaces: 1
- Uncovered spaces: 4
Features
- Patio & porch: Covered
- Exterior features: Rain Gutters
- Has private pool: Yes
- Pool features: Gunite, Electric Heat, In Ground, Private, Tile
- Spa features: In Ground, Private
- Fencing: Block,Brick,Wrought Iron
- Has view: Yes
- View description: Mountain(s), Pool
Lot
- Size: 9,583 sqft
- Features: Landscaped
Details
- Parcel number: 508312003
- Special conditions: Standard
Construction
Type & style
- Home type: SingleFamily
- Architectural style: Spanish
- Property subtype: Single Family Residence
Materials
- Brick, Stucco
- Foundation: Block
- Roof: Clay,Foam
Condition
- New construction: No
- Year built: 1934
Utilities & green energy
- Utilities for property: Cable Available
Community & neighborhood
Location
- Region: Palm Springs
- Subdivision: Tahquitz River Estat
Other
Other facts
- Listing terms: Cash,Cash to New Loan
Services availability

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