Beverly Hills is known as one of the most glamorous and exclusive neighborhoods in the United States, but it hasn't always been that way. The city started as a Spanish ranch in the 1700s and has undergone a number of transformations over the centuries. In this blog post, we'll explore the history of Beverly Hills real estate, from its early days as a ranch to the multi-million dollar mansions that now populate the area.
Early History
The story of Beverly Hills real estate starts in 1769, when a Spanish expedition led by Gaspar de Portolá traveled through the area. In the early 1800s, the land was granted to Maria Rita Valdez Villa, the wife of a soldier in the Spanish army. The property was later purchased by Benjamin Wilson, a fur trapper, who used the land for cattle ranching.
In the 1860s, the land was purchased by a group of investors who formed the Amalgamated Oil Company. They drilled for oil, but were unsuccessful. The land was then used for agriculture, and a small community of farmers and ranchers grew up in the area.
The Birth of Beverly Hills
The real estate boom that created Beverly Hills as we know it today started in the early 1900s. In 1906, Burton Green, a former hotel manager, and his wife, Mary, purchased a large parcel of land in the area. They named it Beverly Hills after Beverly Farms, Massachusetts, where they had previously lived.
Green and his partners began to develop the land, building streets, water lines, and other infrastructure. They also created strict zoning laws that mandated large lot sizes and the use of only certain types of building materials. This created a sense of exclusivity and luxury that still defines Beverly Hills today.
By the 1920s, Beverly Hills had become a playground for the rich and famous. Celebrities like Charlie Chaplin, Will Rogers, and Harold Lloyd built homes in the area, and the Beverly Hills Hotel became a popular destination for Hollywood elite. The city also became known for its luxury shopping and dining, with Rodeo Drive and the Beverly Wilshire Hotel becoming iconic symbols of glamour and excess.
Modern Day Beverly Hills Real Estate
Today, Beverly Hills is home to some of the most expensive and exclusive real estate in the world. The median home price in the area is over $3 million, and properties regularly sell for tens of millions of dollars.
The city is known for its luxury estates, many of which feature amenities like swimming pools, tennis courts, and private theaters. The architecture of these homes is varied, with styles ranging from Spanish Colonial Revival to contemporary.
In addition to the luxury homes, Beverly Hills is also home to a number of high-end condominiums and apartments. These properties offer a more affordable option for those who want to live in the area but can't afford a multi-million dollar mansion.
Beverly Hills real estate is also notable for its strict building codes and zoning laws. The city has a design review process that ensures all new construction and renovations meet strict aesthetic standards. This has helped preserve the exclusivity and luxury of the area, while also preventing overdevelopment and preserving the natural beauty of the landscape.
From its humble beginnings as a Spanish ranch to its current status as a playground for the rich and famous, Beverly Hills has undergone a remarkable transformation over the centuries. The strict zoning laws and building codes that were put in place in the early 1900s have helped create a sense of exclusivity and luxury that still defines the area today. While Beverly Hills real estate is undoubtedly expensive, it continues to be a sought-after destination for those who want to live in
