The last time this Eagle Rock home and guesthouse were on the market was back in 1969-when it sold for $29,500.
A Spanish-style villa on a palm tree–dotted street in Eagle Rock, Los Angeles, has just come on the market for the first time in 50 years. The current owner of the two-level, 2,800-square-foot residence is Christine Albers, who bought it with her partner in 1969 after moving to the area from Berlin. Things were, admittedly, a bit simpler back then.
"Buying a house was very easy in those days," says Christine, who was visiting her brother-in-law when she saw the "For Sale" sign on the property’s front lawn. "We approached the owner who lived just across the street, expressed interest, shook hands, drew out money from our Berlin bank, and then started life in Southern California." 
Thick hedges encompassing the historic Eagle Rock residence ensures a sense of seclusion.
Part of what drew the Albers to the residence was its secluded setting. "Back then, the freeways were yet to be built, so it really felt like a life in nature," she continues. "It's still very peaceful here, but at that time-with the canyon and spring blossoms-it was beautiful."
Expansive windows-original to the home-allow natural light to flood the interior spaces.
The living area, anchored by a marble fireplace, offers access to the garden. According to Christine, she and her partner were the first homeowners in the area to put in ceramic tile floors-an update they made shortly after moving in.
Over the years, the couple have tenderly cared for the abode, restoring original details while integrating a number of modern amenities, including ceramic tile flooring in the living spaces and a large pool in the backyard. They also added a detached guesthouse, which has also served as a home office.
The open kitchen is another brightly illuminated space, complete with new appliances and a wide corner skylight. Custom cabinetry wraps around the room, offering plenty of storage.
Tile flooring continues into the dining area, where glass doors lead to the backyard.
"I always loved how light and airy the home felt, and how easy it was to maintain," says Christine. On the ground level, an open layout connects the primary gathering areas, with expansive windows and glass doors catering to seamless indoor/outdoor flow. Upstairs are two spacious bedrooms, along with a sun-kissed library/study area.
The property offers several outdoor areas, including a private patio off the living room.
While an avocado tree was already planted when the coupled moved in (and still thrives today), they’ve nurtured more trees throughout the decades, including lime, kumquat, orange, lemon, and fig. "With such extensive greenery around, it doesn’t feel like you are in the city," says Christine. Scroll ahead to see more of the residence, now listed for $1,699,000.
In total, the home features two bedrooms-both of which present calming environments and large windows.
Floor-to-ceiling mirrors add sophisticated flair to the large primary bathroom.
Additional storage can be found in the bonus area upstairs, which overlooks the backyard.
Another one of the bathrooms boasts an oversized soaking tub. 
A cozy office nook, complete with extensive shelving, is located at the base of the stairs.
Across from the main residence is a turnkey guesthouse, which offers additional sleeping quarters behind frosted glass doors and an open workspace. A well-equipped kitchenette and bath are also included.
The view of the main residence from the guesthouse.
Lush landscaping encloses the solar-heated pool, presenting an idyllic setting to entertain.