The telltale signs of gentrification in NELA: Garvanza and Hermon

The Rapidly Developing Northeast Los Angeles Area (NELA) gives new meaning to the name “Boomtown.” Following in the footsteps of its western neighbor Highland Park, the quaint communities of Hermon and Garvanza have undergone a major renovation since the 1990s. That has been good news for homeowners who have seen home values ​​rise in Garvanza and Hermon as real estate in these areas becomes highly sought after.

The once neglected Craftsman-style residence has taken on a new pride of ownership, making the region one of NEL’s most hidden treasures. Garvanza’s ornate architecture spans nearly every popular style from the 1880s to the 1940s, including Queen Anne, Shingle, Mission Revival, and Tudor Revival. The charm of this unique enclave, filled with historic buildings, is reminiscent of the small towns of Northern California.

Chico’s gingerbread houses come to mind. These ruined beauties of yesteryear are being restored to their original splendor with the massive wave of gentrification sweeping through NELA. The rejuvenation of these sad old buildings has helped launch the local real estate market into the stratosphere. If gentrifying is making a home or district more attractive to the emerging “nobility,” then Garvanza’s dramatic improvement and has come to exemplify this very process.

Garvanza is generally considered to be the birthplace of the Arts and Crafts movement in Southern California, and many of these homes have been recognized as official historic landmarks. For architecture enthusiasts and tourists alike, these spectacular structures are a treasure trove of gems to behold. As the area has become increasingly fashionable with affluent hipsters, local economies have grown as well.

Evidence of gentrification is evident when trendy organic restaurants emerge, capable of meeting all your dietary needs. It wasn’t that long ago that it would be difficult to find a meal outside of what might be available at the street taco vendor, or pedestrian food served at mediocre restaurants. In today’s Garvanza, the gay couple on the go can feast on poached eggs, avocado toast and espresso after Pilates class. There’s even a new cafe tailor-made for cycling culture, taking shape on York Boulevard, of course, selling cycling gear alongside vegan latte and scones to its athletic neighbors. Starbucks is perhaps the most obvious tell-tale sign of gentrification and York Boulevard is now marked by the famous green lady logo.

Next to Garvanza, is the mountain village of Hermon. This ever-so-small residential district is known for its sycamore-lined streets and beautiful period houses. In the not-too-distant past, you might find people pulling the old family car, parked randomly in the front yard. Fences and walls of commercial buildings were “decorated” with gang graffiti. Legions of homeless people camped under the highway.

Today, Hermon real estate is booming and the homes for sale in Hermon are beautiful and immaculate, with well-kept courtyards. There are a limited number of places to roam in these parts, making it difficult to get into this cozy dorm community. The limited supply of homes and ever-increasing demand make Hermon even more elegant among the wonderful people. The small town feel and proximity to the Los Angeles metropolis give you the best of both worlds.