5675 Ocean View Dr, Oakland, CA 94618

This Gracious Two-story Craftsman combines the best of Old World Charm and Modern Updates in a Location that simply can't be beat! First, the exuberant front yard with lush, established native plantings beckons you from the curb. From there, numerous 1912 touches (accented by harmonious paint colors)-- the prominent exterior trim detail, the double-landing front porch, a stately, glass-panel front door w/ original lockset, and the ample, formal entry way--all welcome you in. The grand-scale public rooms boast original, multi-light windows with wavy glass, a lovely decorative mantle, period-style crown moldings, a newer built-in for china and a refurbished one for books, and gleaming hardwood floors. (Caution: you may be forced to host Thanksgiving for friends and family when they see how these rooms set the scene for large gatherings.) Just beyond the formal dining room, you'll find a thoughtfully-designed cook's kitchen, complete with custom cabinets, quartz countertops, quality appliances, a sunny breakfast room (too big to call a nook!), and yard access for easy BBQs. A main floor bedroom suite (with mahogany inlaid floors and a walk-in closet) with a full bath (redone in mosaic tile floor and pedestal sink) make a perfect spot for visitors, in-laws, or a cozy den. Upstairs, you'll find three bedrooms, two that are great for kids of various ages, and a generous master bedroom (w/large closet) and balcony. In addition, a second, tastefully-redone bathroom, a generous laundry room, and the sunniest spot in the house--what may have been an enclosed original sleeping porch, this large plus space now offers myriad flexible uses as playroom or office (or you name it!). The views of surrounding hills and greenery from many windows may make you want to take up painting.... And speaking of flexible spaces and lovely outdoors, the southern exposure yard makes it a glorious place to garden and play, or just hang out on the flagstone patio and enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning. The two-car garage rebuilt in the 1990s is almost too nice to park your cars in--this is California, after all! Another possible studio location, perhaps? There is ample parking for 3 tandem cars in the driveway. But in this prime location, you could sell your cars! Speaking of Location (Location, Location):All things convenient for modern living are just beyond your doorstep--Foodie Delights, Shopping, Bookstores, Transit options galore. This home scores an 85 of 100 on WalkScore.com: a Very Walkable rating. (see link.) At the end of the block, you'll find College avenue, where plentiful cafes and eateries abound: Market Hall, Oliveto's, Bittersweet (the chocolate café), Cactus Taqueria, Zachary's Pizza, Crepevine, the new Jules Thin Crust, Soi 4 (Thai), A Cote (French Tapas), Chu, Hudson Bay Café, Christopher's Burgers, Filipo's, Toast-- the list goes on and on. And a sunday Farmer's Market to boot! When the tummy is sated, window shop at Itsy Bitsy, Maison D'etre, Nathan & Co, Rockridge Home, Tootsie's, Atomic Garden, local east bay clothing designs in Leslie Evers flagship boutique or Stella Carakasi or browse (or better yet, BUY) books at some of the few remaining local brick and mortar stores, Diesel and Pegasus Books. Drop in at the library or go play at Frog Park. And, with BART just down the road, easy freeway access (including a casual carpool pick-up stop) within blocks, multiple bus lines and bike routes, San Francisco, Berkeley and the rest of the Bay Area are also close at hand. All these amenities, combined with the award-winning Chabot Elementary Oakland Unified School district (see school link) and you experience why Oakland was recently ranked #1 of Most Exciting US Cities to Live In. (see link to article) This special home truly offers it all!