Westchester real estate is considered some of the most valuable in all of Los Angeles. The community was originally an agricultural area, because the climate of the area was very conducive to farming. The relocation of what was then known as Loyola University to Westchester led to a transition of the area from agricultural community to residential community. This transition was also aided by the development of the aerospace industry, which came to employ many of the residents of Westchester. Today, the Westchester community is known as the home of Loyola Marymount University, the Otis College of Art and Design, and the Los Angeles International Airport.
Major Attractions in Westchester
There are a ton of things to do in Westchester. The Westchester golf course is a great place to spend a sunny day, whether you are a beginner or advanced golfer. Other recreational opportunities can be found at the Westchester Recreation Center, which comes complete with a children's playground, basketball courts, a baseball diamond, picnic areas, a lighted soccer field, lighted tennis courts, a football field and an outdoor pool. Theater buffs enjoy visiting the Westchester Playhouse, where a variety of plays are performed.
Westchester Real Estate
Most of the homes in Westchester real estate are detached single family houses. These houses are generally ranch-style homes or small bungalows. There are, however a number of smaller apartments, usually occupied by college students attending Loyola Marymount University and the Otis College of Art and Design. The majority of residents are Caucasian, but there is a significant Hispanic and African American population living in Westchester as well. The average resident of Westchester earns $77,000 annually. Westchester is bordered by Inglewood to the east, Playa del Rey to the west, Culver City to the north and El Segundo to the south. Much of the available real estate is located in the northern portion of the community.
Real Estate for Sale in Westchester: Current Trends
Like most of the US, real estate for sale in Westchester has been negatively impacted by the housing bust and the recession. Fortunately, things seem to be picking up and house values are once again on the rise. Currently, the average listing price in Westchester is $630,000. The average selling price is slightly less, hovering around $600,000. Although there has been a significant drop in the number of houses sold, and the amount they have sold for, Westchester certainly has not been as badly affected by the recession as other Los Angeles neighborhoods. Home values are positively impacted by the presence of Loyola Marymount University, the Otis College of Art and Design and several high achieving public and private schools in the area. Additionally, the local parks and recreation program has done a great service in boosting home values. For those interested in buying a home in Westchester, this may be an ideal time to do so, as there are openings in the housing market that may not remain for long.
