Tarzana, California – Appraisal Overview
Tarzana occupies a unique position in the San Fernando Valley as an affluent yet understated residential enclave with distinct market characteristics. From an appraisal perspective, this neighborhood presents a two-tiered market divided by Ventura Boulevard, with premium hillside properties to the south and more traditional valley-floor homes to the north.
Key Neighborhood Characteristics:
- Location: Southwest Valley, bordered by Encino, Woodland Hills, and Calabasas
- Topography: Transitional area between valley floor and Santa Monica Mountains
- Market Position: Affluent family-oriented community with semi-rural pockets
- Historical Significance: Former ranch land owned by Edgar Rice Burroughs
Housing Stock Analysis:
- Luxury Hillside Properties (
- Custom estates in the Santa Monica Mountain foothills
- Contemporary and Mediterranean architectural styles dominate
- Lot sizes: 10,000-40,000+ sq ft
- “The Summit” area commands highest premiums
- Traditional Single-Family Homes (
- 1950s-1980s ranch and traditional styles
- Valley floor properties on 7,500-15,000 sq ft lots
- Strong demand for renovated properties (20-35% premiums)
- Condominium Market (
- Limited inventory of older stock (1980s):
- Newer luxury developments:
- Multifamily Properties:
- Primarily 1960s-1980s garden apartments
- Rent-controlled units represent ~30% of inventory
Commercial & Retail Profile:
- Ventura Boulevard serves as main commercial corridor
- Tarzana Village as upscale shopping/dining hub
- Strong medical office presence (Cedars-Sinai affiliate)
Key Value Drivers:
- Location Advantages:
- Proximity to top-rated public/private schools
- Easy freeway access (101, 405)
- Adjacent to premium West Valley communities
- Neighborhood Amenities:
- Excellent public/private schools
- Equestrian-friendly areas with horse trails
- Recreational access (Marvin Braude Bike Trail)
- Market Trends:
- Steady 5-8% annual appreciation
- Strong demand from entertainment executives
- Limited new construction maintaining price stability
Appraisal Considerations:
- Hillside vs. Valley Floor
- Equestrian Premium
- School District Impact
- View Adjustments
Risk Factors:
- Wildfire risk in hillside areas
- Traffic congestion near 101/405 interchange
- Some aging infrastructure in original subdivisions
- Earthquake retrofit requirements for older buildings
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