SOLD There are times when it is a true privilege to represent a property. In over 40 years as a real estate broker, there have been less than a handful of properties that I have rated anywhere close to a "10". And, while this 40 acre property isn't a perfect "10", it does come very close. Let's see if you agree.
Located in Miramonte, this 40 acre parcel is the site of one of the original stage stops along the route from the San Joaquin Valley to the redwoods during the logging days of the 1800's. The cabin style home on the property is the original stagecoach station that has been converted into a 1 bedroom 1 bath retreat of just over 1,250sqft. It features a large kitchen with a classic woodburning cookstove (and, yes, there is also a place for a modern stove as well). The east facing home has a fully covered front porch with a dramatic wide entry hall that has 10 foot ceilings with a knotty pine interior. The entry leads to a huge living room, also with 10 foot ceilings and knotty pine interior, with a beautiful natural rock fireplace with insert. Also off the entry, opposite of the living room, is a large bedroom with a second fireplace and access to a private covered patio. There is also a separate modern bathroom with a shower. The county lists the home as being built in 1920, but it is certainly older than that.
There are several outbuildings next to the home including a utility room, indoor and outdoor workshops, tractor shed, woodshed, pole barn, and multiple other storage sheds. A large fenced corral is sited between the home and the driveway and the original barn and stables are at the north end of the property along a seasonal creek. A new well was drilled in 2007 which produces 20gpm. There is a nice family orchard and vegetable garden next to the home and the entire home site area is surrounded by huge, majestic cedar trees. It is an absolutely awesome setting.
Now we get to the land. This is a singularly unique 40 acre property. It is fully fenced with not 1, but 3 seasonal streams flowing through it. The terrain is magnificent, varying from level to rolling with a terrific mix of open meadows to forested areas with a mix of huge stately oaks, manzanita groves, and willows. There is even a great rock outcropping with Indian grind holes (yes, before it was a stage stop it was an Indian village site). Last, but certainly not least are the two beautiful spring fed and creek fed ponds. These ponds are about 3 and 6 acres respectively, when full, and are stocked with bass and bluegill. Fishing anyone? Near the center of the property, between the two ponds, there is a large elevated site of about 5 acres that is nearly level that would provide a terrific and completely private site for the ranch home of your dreams. This site has terrific views of the surrounding mountains. The entire property is easily accessible by vehicle. Wildlife is abundant with deer, wild turkey, raccoon, fox, bobcat, raptors, quail, dove, and waterfowl a common sight. The potential uses for this property is virtually unlimited. The large flats would be ideal for growing grapes (the property is within the boundary of the Squaw Valley-Miramonte AVA wine grape region) or other permanent crops. Or it would make a great spot for a horse setup with arenas and riding trails. Whatever you might have in mind, this property would fit the bill. As an aside, let me say that the pictures don't begin to do the property justice. It is far more impressive in person.
As always, I tell you about any negatives. As with any property, there are a few. Access to the property from Dunlap Road is via a deeded easement along the east boundary. That easement does go to one additional 160 acre property beyond this parcel. The easement road is not paved. It is about 1/4 mile from Dunlap Road to the property. This is an old home. While it is in very livable condition, there is a lot of deferred maintenance and the age related issues that you might expect from a 100 year old home. The outbuildings are in various states of disrepair. Finally, there is a fair accumulation of the remnants of past property owners, some usable, some antiques, and quite a bit of plain old junk.
It's hard to find fault with near perfection. And that is what this property is - "nearly perfect". The negative issues are all related to the age and condition of what was built by man. The perfect part is the land itself. This property feels good when you first step on it and only gets better with each subsequent step. You will be transported to the peace and tranquility of days long past. This property truly is an island of respite from the hectic pace of an urban lifestyle.
Come take a look and prepare to be impressed. This property will knock your socks off. This is truly a piece of history. Wear long pants and boots. We will be doing some walking and there is a lot to see. Just a couple of final notes. The sellers will consider carrying paper for a qualified buyer with an acceptable down payment. AND, the price is the price. The sellers know what they have and they know that they have set a fair price.
