Key Characteristics & Ideal Buyer Profile

This 1,186 sqft home built in 1963 sits on a 5,122 sqft lot at 290 Raquette Street. Its main appeal is predictability and value for a specific budget bracket. The living area is right on the street average, and the home’s assessed value of $330k sits notably below the Westwood neighborhood average of $392k and the citywide average. This suggests the property is not the most upgraded or largest home on the block, but it offers a solid, unpretentious entry point. The lot is smaller than typical for the area (ranking in the bottom 25% on the street), which may limit expansion but also keeps the yard low-maintenance. The home’s construction year is average for both the street and city, meaning no premium for vintage character, but no penalty for being unusually old either.

The property would best suit a first-time buyer or an investor looking for a functional, average-sized home without paying a neighborhood premium. It is less suited for someone seeking a larger lot for gardening or additions, or a buyer who wants a move-in-ready home that already matches the higher assessed values nearby. The appeal lies in buying below the neighborhood median, not in competing at the top. The rankings (citywide: top 52% for living area, top 61% for value) confirm this is a middle-of-the-pack dwelling that prioritizes practicality over standout features.

Five Possible FAQs

1. How does this home’s value compare to others in Westwood?
It’s assessed at $330k, which is about 16% below the Westwood average of $392k. On its own street, it’s also below average, ranking in the bottom third. This doesn’t mean it’s in poor condition—it suggests it may be less updated or have fewer premium finishes than neighbors. It could represent a good opportunity if you’re willing to do some work over time.

2. Is the lot size large enough for a garage addition or a garden?
The lot is 5,122 sqft, which is smaller than the Westwood average (6,491 sqft) and the street average (5,345 sqft). It’s adequate for a typical yard and potentially a single-car garage, but you’ll want to check local setback rules. It would be tight for significant expansion or a large detached structure.

3. Why is the assessed value below the neighborhood average if the living area is average?
Assessed value factors in more than square footage—it includes condition, updates, lot size, and features. The home’s smaller-than-average lot and its ranking near the bottom of the street for value suggest it may not have been recently renovated or may lack features common in the area (like central air, finished basements, or modern kitchens). It’s a fair price for a functional, no-frills home.

4. How does the year built (1963) affect maintenance or renovations?
It’s an average vintage for the street and city. Homes from this era typically have solid construction but may need updates to electrical, plumbing, or insulation. The fact that it’s not older means you’re less likely to face major structural surprises, but you should budget for typical mid-century home upgrades like windows, roof, or HVAC if not already done.

5. What is the neighborhood like for resale?
Westwood is a large, established area. The home currently ranks in the bottom 14% for assessed value within the neighborhood, which could mean slower appreciation relative to higher-valued homes nearby—but also less downside risk. Resale will depend on whether you make improvements that move its value closer to the neighborhood average. Given its citywide ranking is still around the middle, you’re not in an outlier location.