Albany Real Estate

Bordered by Berkeley to the south and west, El Cerrito and Richmond to the north, Albany is situated along the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay. With an estimated population of approximately 18,000 in 2010, Albany serves as home to a number of educational institutions such as Albany High School,Albany Middle School, Tilden Preparatory School and St. Mary’s College High School. 

Solano Avenue is considered to be the center of economy and business in Albany. With a pedestrian-friendly structure, Solano Avenue hosts small shops, restaurants and service centers. It also hosts the Solano Stroll, a yearly street festival held during the second Sunday of September. The major business establishments are located at San Pablo Avenue, another major commercial and retail arena.

Below: Sunset at Albany, CA by photogirl7.1

The main activity hub is along Solano Avenue with plenty of stores ranging from China Village (my husband’s favorite Chinese restaurant!) to La Farine and Zachary’s Pizza, just to name a few. As a result, home prices are generally higher than surrounding cities, appreciate in value faster and hold their values better in a down economy.

Sports enthusiasts should visit the Golden Gate Fields, a commercial racetrack in Albany. You can also watch the tournaments of the Albany Little League. Music fanatics also have their share of entertainment in Albany with the Albany High School Jazz Band. You can also visit Albany’s recreation parks such as Creekside Park, Ocean View Park and Jewel’s Terrace Park.

Below: Heavenly sunset at Albany, California by C.L. Maclay

If you have any questions about living in Albany, please don’t hesitate to ask! I’d love to share my thoughts with you about the pros and cons of this neighborhood, as well as the current real estate trends.