Four Up and Coming L.A. Neighborhoods for First-time Buyers

There’s no question—Los Angeles is evolving. Once peripheral pockets of town are now burgeoning with life and allure. Every day, one corner or another of our sprawling city welcomes a new residential development, upscale restaurant, or hip cafe. With the recent light-rail expansion and extensive downtown revival, L.A. is steadily becoming a more connected and walkable city, from Pershing Square to Santa Monica Pier.

All this growth, of course, means big changes to the layout of the Los Angeles housing market. As yesterday’s affordable locales become increasingly popular for investors, it may seem overwhelming for a first-time buyer to get in on the action. So, without further ado, here are four under-the-radar L.A. neighborhoods where you might just find your dream home.

Glassell Park

Perks: Close to Downtown LA, Pasadena, and Highland Park; Quaint, walkable streets ideal for dog owners.

Get your coffee fix: Habitat Coffee and Tea

Monrovia

Perks: Close to Pasadena and hiking in Santa Anita Canyon; Small-town feel.

Get your pho fix: Saigon Avenue

Mar Vista

Perks: Sandwiched between Venice, Santa Monica, and Culver City; The laid-back Venice Beach lifestyle with a lighter price tag.

Get your organic produce: Mar Vista Farmers’ Market

Faircrest Heights

Perks: Close to Culver City, Beverly Hills, and Miracle Mile; Tons of character homes, especially Spanish Colonial Revivals.

Get your coffee fix: Paper or Plastik Cafe