Eichler Homes in West San Jose, 95130 – Fairhaven Tract a Mid-Century Modern Gem

Eichler Homes in 95130 West San Jose

Located on the western edge of San Jose, ZIP code 95130 sits at the city’s border with Campbell and Saratoga, an area once dominated by orchards and farming (part of the historic Rancho Quito region). In the late 1950s and early 1960s, this quiet suburban pocket became home to Joseph Eichler’s expansion into the South Bay’s fertile foothills. Eichler – inspired by architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s vision of modern homes for the middle class – developed several neighborhoods in San Jose between 1951 and 1962. The Eichler homes in 95130 (notably the Fairhaven tract) were built around 1961–1963 on what was once a plum orchard, reflecting Eichler’s final push of mid-century development in Silicon Valley. These West San Jose Eichlers were among the last built in the city, fitting into Eichler’s suburban expansion timeline as the “fifth Eichler development” in San Jose’s portfolio.

Architecturally, Eichler enlisted some of California’s top modernist firms for these projects. Claude Oakland & Associates and Jones & Emmons – two of Eichler’s principal architects – are credited with the designs for the 95130 Eichlers. Their collaboration produced three distinct Eichler models in this area, showcasing both atrium-centered plans and more traditional layouts. By the early ’60s, Eichler’s designs had evolved to be more spacious and dramatic than his early postwar houses, and 95130’s homes exemplify this evolution. In Eichler’s broader timeline, the homes here came shortly after his famed Palo Alto and Sunnyvale tracts, and just as he was expanding into nearby Cupertino and Saratoga with his mid-century modern gems. The result in 95130 is a small but significant collection of Mid-Century Modern residences that capture the optimism and innovative design of the era.

Fairhaven Neighborhood Overview

The Eichler enclaves in 95130 are tucked into two main residential pockets, each with its own charm. The largest concentration lies in the Fairhaven tract – a hidden mid-century modern enclave of about 57 Eichler homes developed in 1962–63. Fairhaven spans just three streets – Mossbrook Drive, Mossbrook Circle, and Student Lane – forming a quiet loop of cul-de-sacs nestled between Saratoga Avenue and Quito Road on San Jose’s western border. This tract sits on the San Jose–Campbell boundary, only minutes from the Saratoga foothills, and within walking distance of retail hubs like Westgate and El Paseo shopping centers. Broad, tree-lined streets with minimal through-traffic give Fairhaven a secluded feel despite its central location. Lot sizes are generous (often 7,000–8,000 sq. ft.), allowing for expansive backyards and even pools, while preserving a low-density neighborhood character. A community garden lies adjacent to the tract, and the Los Ranchitos Cabana Club (a local swim club) is only half a mile away, providing nearby recreational amenities. Fairhaven’s boundaries blend into the surrounding West San Jose residential fabric, but a keen eye will notice the distinctive Eichler rooflines and modern facades that set it apart from neighboring ranch-style homes.

Another cluster of mid-century modern homes can be found around Wunderlich Drive and Duvall Drive, a bit to the north (in the Hathaway Park neighborhood of West San Jose). This pocket, near Hathaway Park on Vallejo and Colombo Drive, features a handful of Eichler-designed (or Eichler-influenced) homes on peaceful courts and streets. Tucked just south of the Cupertino border, the Wunderlich/Duvall enclave enjoys close proximity to Saratoga Avenue as well as Murdock Park (in adjacent Cupertino) and El Quito Park in Saratoga. Streets here curve gently or end in cul-de-sacs, fostering a calm, neighborly atmosphere similar to Fairhaven. Homes in this area also boast mid-century design elements – post-and-beam profiles, expansive glass – making them a sought-after secret for Eichler enthusiasts. The neighborhood’s boundaries are loosely defined by Saratoga Avenue on the east and Quito Road on the west, marking the transition from San Jose to the small towns beyond. Living in these enclaves means enjoying a suburban sanctuary with parks and playgrounds (like Hathaway Park, a 6.7-acre green space with picnic areas and sports courts) just a short stroll away, while major urban conveniences are only a few minutes’ drive.

Fairhaven Architectural Features

A classic Eichler in West San Jose showcases hallmark mid-century features: clean lines, post-and-beam construction, and seamless indoor-outdoor design.

Homes in the 95130 Eichler tracts exemplify the mid-century modern aesthetic that made Eichler a household name. These residences feature distinct post-and-beam construction, flat or low-gabled rooflines, and extensive use of glass walls to invite California’s abundant sunlight indoors. Many models include a central atrium – an open-air courtyard at the heart of the home – which blurs the line between indoor and outdoor living. In fact, two of the three Fairhaven designs were atrium models, while the third offered a spacious great-room layout without an atrium. All of the Eichlers here are single-story and originally built as 4-bedroom, 2-bath homes, with floor plans averaging around 1,700 sq. ft. – notably larger than Eichler’s early-’50s tract homes. Vaulted ceilings are clad in tongue-and-groove wood, supported by exposed beams that emphasize horizontal lines and an open concept. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels and sliding doors line the rear and atrium sides of the house, providing that coveted indoor-outdoor flow. As is typical of Eichlers, street-facing windows are modest and placed higher for privacy, while the rear elevations are almost entirely glass opening to private yards.

Interior materials and fixtures speak to the era’s modernism. Many homes retain Philippine mahogany wall paneling in living areas and bedrooms – a warm, red-brown backdrop that Eichler originally installed to add organic texture. You’ll often find the original globe pendant lights still hanging in entryways or dining areas, as well as the iconic conical chimney fireplaces in the living room. Eichler’s signature hydronic radiant heating runs under the floors (originally copper tubing embedded in the concrete slab) to gently warm the home without visible ductwork. In fact, these houses were built without attics or crawlspaces for ducts – a design choice that encourages owners to use innovative solutions like mini-split HVAC today. Other quintessential features include gently sloping A-framed or flat rooflines with deep eaves and exposed rafters, clerestory windows beneath the roofline to admit light while maintaining privacy, and sliding partition walls in some models that allow flexible use of space. Exterior materials originally included vertical grooved siding (often stained in earth tones) and concrete block accents. Post-and-beam construction, visible both inside and out, not only creates open interiors free of load-bearing walls, but also forms sheltered carports and entry courtyards that are integral to the facade. From the aggregate concrete atrium floors to the birch or mahogany kitchen cabinetry, the Eichler homes in 95130 remain a showcase of mid-century design ingenuity. Even 60+ years later, Eichler owners in this area lovingly preserve these features – or restore them during renovations – knowing they are living in architectural treasures of Silicon Valley.

Fairhaven Real Estate Market Data

The West San Jose Eichler market in ZIP 95130 is both vibrant and highly competitive. Over the past 12–24 months, home prices in this area have been on a strong upward trend. As of mid-2025, the median sale price for single-family homes in 95130 is around $2.3 million, which marks roughly a 10% year-over-year increase. In May 2025 alone, homes in this ZIP were selling at a median of $2.305M, often after just ~10 days on market. This far outpaces broader San Jose trends and underscores the intense demand for homes in this neighborhood. The price per square foot has hovered around $1,400–$1,500, reflecting the premium buyers pay for mid-century modern design coupled with West Valley location.

One notable trend is the performance of original Eichler homes vs. renovated Eichlers. Well-preserved or authentically renovated Eichlers in 95130 can command top dollar – often selling at the upper end of the market (in some cases $2.5M+ for an exquisitely updated 4-bedroom with modern amenities). Many San Jose Eichlers fall in the $1.6M to $2.5M range, depending on size, condition, and level of remodeling. An untouched “time capsule” Eichler (for example, a smaller ~1,200 sq ft model with original features but needing updates) might trade in the mid-$1 millions, as both Eichler enthusiasts and developers compete for these rare offerings. On the other hand, a tastefully modernized Eichler – with upgraded electrical, new roof, remodeled kitchen/baths, but maintaining Eichler’s character – will attract a broad pool of buyers and can set neighborhood price records. We’ve seen renovated Eichlers in nearby communities regularly garner multiple offers well above listing price. Here in 95130, most homes (Eichler or otherwise) are selling above asking: on average about 8% over list price, with hot properties sometimes reaching 15% over asking. Nearly 90–95% of listings have been selling above list in this ZIP, a statistic that speaks to low inventory and high demand. In spring 2025, only a handful of Eichlers were available in 95130, and those that hit the market were snapped up quickly by eager buyers. Inventory levels remain tight – the number of homes sold in a month is down ~25% from the prior year, simply because there are few sellers and many buyers. This seller’s market dynamic is bolstered by the unique appeal of Eichler homes: they are irreplaceable in today’s market. For mid-century modern aficionados, a Joseph Eichler-built home is a “holy grail,” and they are often willing to pay a premium for one in good condition. All of this means that if you’re considering selling an Eichler in 95130, the market conditions have been very much in your favor. Conversely, buyers need to come prepared – it’s common to face multiple offers and even bidding wars, and successful offers often have attractive terms and few contingencies.

To summarize the recent market data (past 12–24 months): average sale prices in 95130 have been roughly in the $2.0M–$2.4M range, depending on the month and mix of homes sold. The median listing price (as of mid-2025) is about $2.1M (up ~13% year-over-year), indicating that sellers recognize the strong demand. Price per sq. ft. has stabilized around $1,450, after climbing from the high-$1,300s the year before. Eichler homes, in particular, tend to achieve the higher end of the price spectrum in this area due to their iconic design. Buyers are not just purchasing a house; they’re buying a piece of architectural history – and the market reflects that added value. With Silicon Valley’s tech wealth and discerning homebuyers, mid-century modern homes in West San Jose have proven to be an appreciating asset and a solid long-term investment.

Fairhaven Schools & Education

One of the attractions of West San Jose’s 95130 neighborhoods is access to excellent schools. The area is served by two highly regarded school districts: the Moreland School District for elementary and middle grades, and the Campbell Union High School District for high school. Children here typically attend Payne Elementary School (K–5), which is a well-rated neighborhood school known for strong academics and a friendly community (located right within ZIP 95130 on Gleason Avenue). For middle school, most students go on to Moreland Middle School, serving grades 6–8. Conveniently, Moreland Middle is located on Student Lane in the Fairhaven Eichler tract itself – meaning some Eichler residents can literally walk down the street to school! Moreland Middle offers acclaimed programs (including GATE and Project Lead The Way) and maintains a low student–teacher ratio, reflecting the district’s commitment to quality education. When it comes to high school, teenagers in 95130 usually attend Prospect High School in the Campbell Union High School District. Prospect High (home of the Panthers) is actually just across the city border in Saratoga, but it serves this slice of West San Jose and has a diverse student body with a comprehensive college-prep curriculum. Families appreciate that Prospect offers a balance of strong academics, arts, and athletics, and it benefits from an engaged parent community. (Some portions of 95130 may fall in the attendance area for Westmont High School or Branham High School due to district lines, but Prospect is the primary school for the Moreland area.) In addition to public schools, there are also esteemed private schools nearby. For example, Harker School and Mitty High School (Archbishop Mitty) are within a short drive, offering other options for education-focused families in the area.

Beyond K–12 schools, the location of 95130 is ideal for families with working parents and commuters. The neighborhood sits at a nexus of major Silicon Valley commute routes. Saratoga Avenue and Lawrence Expressway provide north–south access, while Highway 85 runs just to the south of the ZIP code, easily connecting residents to I-280 and SR 17/880. This means Cupertino’s Apple Park campus is only about a 10-minute drive north, the heart of Silicon Valley employment (Apple, Cupertino; Nvidia, Santa Clara; Google’s West campus, etc.) is within 15–20 minutes, and downtown San Jose is reachable in 20–25 minutes via surface streets or freeways. Proximity to major tech employers is a selling point – for instance, Apple’s Infinite Loop and Spaceship campus, Netflix’s headquarters in Los Gatos, and eBay’s campus are all a short commute away. Equally important, the area provides easy access to commuter routes for those working up the Peninsula: I-280 westbound quickly connects to destinations like Stanford or Palo Alto, and Lawrence Expressway or San Tomas Expressway can be used to reach north Santa Clara and Sunnyvale tech corridors. Despite this convenience, the Eichler neighborhoods remain insulated from heavy traffic – they’re tucked away just enough to avoid the noise, while still offering quick access to main roads. In terms of higher education, West Valley College in Saratoga and De Anza College in Cupertino are both nearby for continuing education or community programs. Families also enjoy being near cultural and educational resources: the Saratoga Library, Campbell Community Center, and San Jose’s West Valley Branch Library are all in the vicinity.

In summary, 95130 offers top-tier public schools (Moreland’s elementary and middle schools feed into respected Campbell high schools) and a strategic location that benefits from Silicon Valley’s infrastructure. It’s an ideal blend for families: kids can attend strong local schools through high school, and parents have a convenient commute to the Valley’s job centers. The emphasis on education in this community is evident – from tidy school campuses to active parent-teacher associations – making it a draw for homebuyers who prioritize learning. Living in an Eichler here means not only enjoying a beautiful design, but also access to the educational opportunities and innovation culture that Silicon Valley is known for.

Eichler Home Lifestyle & Community

Owning an Eichler in West San Jose isn’t just about the house – it’s a lifestyle and community unto itself. There is a palpable pride of ownership among Eichler homeowners in 95130; residents are keenly aware that they are stewards of a mid-century modern legacy. Many go to great lengths to preserve the architectural integrity of their homes – whether that means restoring original mahogany walls, installing era-appropriate globe lights, or resisting the trend to rebuild into a two-story McMansion. This preservation ethos has fostered a strong camaraderie among neighbors. In the Fairhaven tract, for example, newcomers are welcomed and “adopted” into the close-knit fold – longtime residents share advice on Eichler-friendly remodeling contractors, and there’s an informal homeowners’ network that plans neighborhood gatherings. Annual block parties and holiday get-togethers are a beloved tradition. It’s not uncommon for several Eichler owners to open up their backyards (which often connect via low fences) for a progressive barbecue or a mid-century modern home tour. In fact, Eichler neighborhoods across San Jose are known for their “infectious neighborliness,” and 95130 is no exception. Neighbors take evening strolls along the cul-de-sacs, admiring each other’s atrium gardens or new period-accurate paint jobs, and conversations easily strike up. The layout of these enclaves – with their cul-de-sac courts and minimal traffic – encourages walking, kids playing outside, and casual chats on the driveway.

Community spirit runs deep here. Residents have organized everything from group garage sales to Eichler-specific fix-it days, where someone handy might help a neighbor repair an original closet door or swap stories about refinishing tongue-and-groove ceilings. The social calendar can include summer ice cream socials in the park, outdoor movie nights projected in an atrium, and even an Eichler holiday lights tour where these modern homes get a 1960s-retro dose of festive decor. One anecdote from a nearby Eichler community encapsulates the vibe: neighbors have a regular bunco game that’s been ongoing for 20 years, showing how friendships in Eichler enclaves stand the test of time. That “1950s small-town” feeling that many of us crave is alive and well here – everyone waves hello, and it’s easy to borrow a cup of sugar or an extra ladder when you need one. The Eichler owners also collectively appreciate open space. With Hathaway Park and other green spots so close, morning dog walks or weekend playdates often become impromptu meetups for Eichler families.

There’s also a culture of Eichler-friendly remodeling in this community. Rather than tearing down, owners tend to renovate thoughtfully. Many hire architects or designers familiar with mid-century style to update kitchens and bathrooms in a way that complements the original aesthetic. Flat roofs get new silicone coatings to extend their life; old radiant heat systems are repaired rather than abandoned; and if an owner does add on square footage, they often hide it behind the home or in a way that maintains the home’s street appearance. This shared understanding – that they want to “keep Eichlers Eichlers” – further bonds the community. In recent years, the City of San Jose has even explored creating historic districts or design guidelines for Eichler neighborhoods to help guide these alterations, and local Eichler homeowners have been very engaged in that process, voicing support for maintaining the mid-century character. Living in an Eichler enclave thus comes with an implicit pact: you’re part of a group that cherishes its neighborhood’s unique identity. The Boyenga Team has often heard from 95130 Eichler owners that “it’s not just a house, it’s a community” – and one visit to a Fairhaven block party or a weekend stroll down Wunderlich Drive will show you why. Open floor plans and glass walls aside, the true openness is in the way neighbors interact here. It’s a throwback to a bygone era of community, seamlessly merged with the modern, forward-looking spirit of Silicon Valley.

Why Work With the Boyenga Team

When it comes to Eichler homes in Silicon Valley, the Boyenga Team stands out as the real estate experts who truly understand this niche. Often referred to as the “Eichler Home Experts,” the Boyenga Team (led by Eric & Janelle Boyenga) has cultivated a deep specialization in mid-century modern properties. Our team has a proven track record in 95130 and nearby Eichler neighborhoods – including several recent Eichler sales in West San Jose’s Fairhaven community – which means we know the nuances that make these homes special. From recognizing an original Claude Oakland floor plan to knowing which upgrades will boost value for Eichler buyers, we bring an unmatched depth of knowledge. We don’t just market houses; we tell the story of your Eichler. Our tailored approach often involves highlighting features like open atriums, unpainted wood paneling, or globe lights in our marketing, because we know Eichler enthusiasts value those details.

The Boyenga Team is proud to be affiliated with Compass, and we leverage Compass’s industry-leading platform to benefit our clients. One example is our implementation of the Compass 3-Phase Marketing Strategy – a cutting-edge approach that gives our sellers maximum exposure and control over the sale process. This strategy unfolds in three phases: first, we can list your home as a Compass Private Exclusive (Phase 1), offering it discreetly to a network of over 34,000 top agents and their buyers – a great way to test pricing and generate early interest without days-on-market accruingcompass-homeowners.com. Next, we move to Compass Coming Soon (Phase 2), publicly showcasing your property on Compass.com and social media before it hits the open market, to build buzz and capture engagement insights (how many people are saving the listing, what feedback we’re getting). Finally, Phase 3 is the full MLS launch, where your Eichler is listed on all platforms and open houses begin – by this point, we’ve optimized the pricing and presentation thanks to the earlier phases. This comprehensive marketing plan, combined with the Boyenga Team’s persistent and aggressive Eichler marketing tactics, ensures that your home reaches the right audience. In practice, our Eichler listings often attract multiple qualified offers, and we frequently achieve record-high prices for our sellers – all while providing a smooth, strategic selling experience.

Beyond marketing, the Boyenga Team offers a suite of resources for Eichler clients. We have a network of trusted contractors, inspectors, and stagers who are experienced with mid-century homes – whether it’s evaluating the condition of a 60-year-old radiant heating system or staging an Eichler with period-appropriate modern furniture to appeal to buyers. We can advise on specialized lending or insurance questions that sometimes arise with Eichler properties (for instance, insuring flat-roof homes or obtaining radiant heat inspections). Our reputation in the Eichler market means we often have early intel on off-market opportunities too – a boon to our buyer clients. For buyers, we offer insightful guidance on how to competently bid and win in this competitive market, and what to plan for in terms of restoration or maintenance of an Eichler home. For sellers, we bring engineered marketing (“Property Nerds”) analytics to price your home right and time the sale for maximum impact, all while tapping into our extensive database of Eichler aficionados who may be looking for a home just like yours.

As a Boyenga Team client, you also benefit from our partnerships and accolades. We are a HomeLight Elite Agent team, recognized for our negotiation skills and top 1% performance, which means you’re working with a team that’s vetted and trusted in the industry. Our collaboration with HomeLight and other referral networks expands the reach of our listings to out-of-area buyers who are specifically searching for mid-century modern gems in Silicon Valley. Furthermore, with the Compass Concierge program, we can help upfront the costs of minor improvements or staging for your home (with no interest) to ensure it shines when it hits the market – a valuable option for Eichler sellers who might need a quick roof tune-up or fresh paint on the tongue-and-groove ceilings but don’t want to delay listing. We tailor a 3-Phased Marketing plan for each client, but the goal is always the same: to showcase your Eichler’s unique features and achieve the highest possible sale price under the best terms. Our results speak for themselves, but it’s our client testimonials that truly tell the story – many Eichler sellers and buyers have lauded our knowledge, professionalism, and the passion we bring to mid-century modern real estate.

If you’re considering buying or selling an Eichler (or any mid-century modern home) in 95130 or elsewhere in Silicon Valley, put the Boyenga Team to work for you. We invite you to reach out for a complimentary consultation – whether it’s just to discuss the market dynamics in your neighborhood, or to strategize a full marketing plan for your property. As the #1 Compass real estate team in Silicon Valley specializing in Eichler homes, we have the experience, tools, and passion to make your real estate journey a success. Contact us today to learn more about our “Property Nerds” approach and how our 3-Phased Marketing Strategy can help you achieve your real estate goals. Let the Boyenga Team be your trusted partner in showcasing the mid-century modern gem that is your home – we’re here to help you “Unlock the Eichler lifestyle” in West San Jose and beyond!