Should I renovate before selling?

Rarely. Fix roofs, systems and water issues, restore what is original, and leave the design choices to the next owner.

Does the architect's name affect the price?

Yes, when it is documented. A known architect draws more serious buyers, and serious buyers compete.

My mid-century home isn't by a famous architect. Does this apply?

Yes. Open plans, walls of glass and a connection to the garden draw the same buyers.

Selling guide

Selling an architectural or mid-century home

An architectural home sells for its full value when it is priced on its design pedigree, prepared by someone who understands how it was built, and put in front of the buyers already looking for that house.

The Westside holds some of the country's most important residential architecture: the Eames House in Pacific Palisades, Ray Kappe in Rustic Canyon, Gregory Ain's Mar Vista Tract, and early Gehry in Venice and Santa Monica. The buyers are architects, designers and collectors. They pay for authenticity and pass on a bad remodel.

Updated November 6, 2026 · Diana Braun, Broker-Associate, Compass · DRE# 01362342

509 Rialto AvenueCharles Ward design

1621 Crescent PlaceDU Architects

518 Sunset AvenueSold to designer Leanne Ford

What it takes

PricingFrom other architect-designed sales. Price per square foot misses what these homes are worth.

DocumentationThe architect, original drawings, permits, restoration history, and whether the home sits in a historic zone (HPOZ) or qualifies for a Mills Act contract.

PreparationFrom a construction background: knowing which original features to protect, like post-and-beam framing, terrazzo and clerestory windows, and which repairs pay off.

PresentationArchitectural photography and restrained staging.

ReachPrivate previews for architects and design-minded buyers through the Compass network, including Compass Private Exclusives.

Questions

Should I renovate before selling?: Rarely. Fix roofs, systems and water issues, restore what is original, and leave the design choices to the next owner.
Does the architect's name affect the price?: Yes, when it is documented. A known architect draws more serious buyers, and serious buyers compete.
My mid-century home isn't by a famous architect. Does this apply?: Yes. Open plans, walls of glass and a connection to the garden draw the same buyers.

Thinking of selling an architectural or mid-century home in Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Venice or Mar Vista? Call me directly at 310-866-5039.