Eichler Homes in Willow Glen, 95125 – A Mid-Century Masterpiece in the Heart of San Jose
Eichler Homes in 95125 Willow Glen
Willow Glen – a charming, tree-lined district in San Jose’s 95125 ZIP code – is home to one of the Bay Area’s most notable concentrations of Eichler homes. These mid-century modern houses were developed by legendary builder Joseph Eichler between the late 1950s and early 1960s, bringing cutting-edge modern architecture into the heart of San Jose. In Willow Glen, Eichler’s vision unfolded primarily in the Fairglen tract (approximately 218 homes built 1959–1961)en.wikipedia.org, with additional nearby clusters shortly thereafter. The first Eichlers in Willow Glen actually predated Fairglen – about 30 homes in the Dry Creek area were built around 1957–1958 as a prelude to the larger Fairglen development. Eichler then launched the main Fairglen tract west of Booksin Avenue in 1958, ultimately constructing roughly 250 homes there by 1961. A third phase of ~66 Eichler houses was completed by 1962 in an adjacent extension of the neighborhood. In total, Willow Glen boasts nearly 350 Eichler homes built between 1957 and 1962, making it the largest Eichler enclave in San Jose.
Several renowned modernist architects were behind these designs. Early Willow Glen Eichlers were designed by Anshen & Allen (the firm that created Eichler’s first iconic homes) and by Jones & Emmons (A. Quincy Jones and Frederick Emmons, who designed many Eichler models in the late 1950s) en.wikipedia.org. As the project progressed, Eichler’s chief architect Claude Oakland – who had established his own firm by 1960 – took the helm in refining and expanding the designs en.wikipedia.org. Oakland’s team completed the later phases of Fairglen, introducing some of the most distinctive Eichler facades and floor plans (including the dramatic double A-frame models that would become neighborhood icons). The collaborative influence of these architects is evident in Willow Glen’s Eichlers: they feature the hallmarks of mid-century modern style – post-and-beam construction, open-plan interiors, walls of glass, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration en.wikipedia.org.
By the early 1960s, the Fairglen Eichler tract was fully built out, and it remains remarkably intact today as a mid-century time capsule. In recognition of its architectural significance, the Fairglen Additions (the official name for the tract, including Units 1–3) were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2019 en.wikipedia.org. This honor – only the third Eichler neighborhood to achieve national historic status at the time – reflects a concerted preservation effort by local residents and historians eichlernetwork.com fairgleneichlers.org. Neighbors formed an Eichler preservation committee in 2016 and worked diligently to document the tract’s history and design, ultimately securing the federal historic district designationfairgleneichlers.org. While the NRHP listing is honorary (imposing no strict regulations), it has galvanized community pride and awareness around the importance of protecting Eichler’s architectural legacy in Willow Glen.
Neighborhood Overview
Willow Glen’s Eichler enclaves are nestled in a pocket of the neighborhood characterized by quiet cul-de-sacs, mature trees, and a warm community vibe. The Eichler homes here are primarily concentrated in three contiguous tracts or areas:
Fairglen (Units 1–3): Often simply referred to as Fairglen Eichlers, this is the core tract of roughly 218 Eichler homes developed 1959–1961en.wikipedia.org. It is located west of Booksin Avenue (between Booksin and Guanacaste Dr/Dry Creek Rd) and is bounded by streets that notably carry the “Fair-” prefix. Key streets include Fairglen Drive, Fairwood Avenue, Fairlawn Court, Fairorchard Avenue, Andalusia Way, Fairhill Lane, Fairgrove Court, and others. The layout here is a mix of gridded streets and small courts or cul-de-sacs, designed to foster a neighborhood feel. Fairglen’s cohesive collection of mid-century homes gives the area a distinct identity – so much so that local realtors and residents simply call it “the Fairglen Eichler Neighborhood” fairgleneichlers.org. This tract, along with its Unit 2 and 3 expansions, forms the Fairglen Additions historic district recognized on the NRHP.
Fairglen Addition (Extension areas): In addition to the initial Fairglen unit, Eichler built further homes in contiguous sections slightly later (circa 1961–1962) to complete the development. One cluster of Eichlers was added off Dumbarton Avenue, Comstock Lane, Hudson Drive, Frobisher Way, and Raleigh Drive on the northern side of the tract. Another small group of Eichlers was added along Dry Creek Road (just west of Booksin) as an extension of the tract. In all, about 60–70 additional Eichler homes were built in these Fairglen addition areas by 1962. Although developed slightly after the original Fairglen homes, they are seamless in style and today are simply considered part of the greater Fairglen Eichler neighborhood. Residents enjoy the same mid-century ambiance on these streets, with street layouts that blend into the original tract. Comstock Lane (a short street off Booksin) is one notable address from this addition phase, as is the segment of Dry Creek Road that includes Eichler houses.
Dry Creek Eichlers (“Ginkgo Glen”): Just a few blocks to the south of Fairglen lies a tiny pocket of Eichler homes often affectionately called Ginkgo Glen. Centered around Adele Place and Margot Place, just north of Curtner Avenue and west of Cherry Avenue, this enclave contains approximately 30 Eichler homes built in 1957dearhouseiloveyou.com. In fact, these were the first Eichlers built in Willow Glen – a small tract that tested the market’s appetite for modern architecture before the larger Fairglen project began. Locals nicknamed it “Ginkgo Glen” thanks to the beautiful ginkgo trees lining the streetsdearhouseiloveyou.com (especially stunning each fall when the leaves turn golden). Homes in this tract showcase some earlier Eichler models and rooflines – from flat-roofed designs to a few dramatic high-peaked A-frame facades – giving the little neighborhood an eclectic mid-century charmdearhouseiloveyou.com. Adele Pl. and Margot Pl. form cozy cul-de-sacs of Eichlers, and a couple of Eichler homes also sit along Dry Creek Road at the entrance to this enclave. Ginkgo Glen’s location is just a stone’s throw from the main Fairglen tract (separated by a few conventional homes), and many Fairglen residents are well aware of their “cousin” Eichler enclave nearby. Together, Fairglen and Ginkgo Glen constitute the two primary Eichler zones of 95125.
Beyond their mid-century allure, these neighborhoods benefit from an excellent location in Willow Glen. The Eichler tracts are walking distance to parks, schools, and local amenities, and only a short drive or bike ride from downtown Willow Glen. For instance, Fairglen is situated just a mile or two from Lincoln Avenue, Willow Glen’s quaint downtown strip filled with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants. Neighbors can enjoy an evening stroll for ice cream or brunch at a sidewalk café in the “village” atmosphere of downtown. Parks and green spaces are also convenient – the community is close to spots like Wallenberg Park and Willow Street Frank Bramhall Park (popular for its playgrounds, picnic areas, and summer events), as well as the extensive grassy fields at Willow Glen High School. The walkability within the Eichler tracts themselves is a big draw: with minimal traffic on the cul-de-sacs and courts, residents often chat on evening walks or kids ride bikes freely under the canopy of trees. All the while, the wider city is easily accessible – downtown San Jose is only 10–15 minutes away, and highways (87, 85, 280) are within a few miles for commuters.
Indeed, Fairglen’s proximity and community feel are a winning combination. As one local description puts it, this is a “close-knit Fairglen community, steps away from parks, schools, restaurants, and shops,” with easy access to downtown Willow Glen, San Jose airport, Caltrain, and even Silicon Valley tech campuses patch.com. It’s not uncommon to see residents walking their dogs or pushing strollers along Fairglen Drive in the morning, then hopping in the car for a short commute to tech employers like eBay (just a couple miles away) or Netflix/Nvidia (via nearby freeways) patch.com. In essence, the Eichler enclaves offer a serene, neighborhood feel within the city – one reason why homes here are so prized.
Architectural Features
A beautifully remodeled Fairglen Eichler home showcasing classic mid-century modern design – note the low-pitched roof, broad eaves, and walls of glass facing the backyard atrium.
The Eichler homes of Willow Glen exemplify mid-century modern architecture in its purest form. Stepping into one of these homes is like stepping into 1960s California – yet their design feels remarkably contemporary even today. Hallmark architectural features include:
Post-and-Beam Construction: All Eichler homes use a post-and-beam structural system, which eliminates the need for many interior load-bearing walls. This allowed the architects to create open floor plans and huge expanses of glass en.wikipedia.org. In Fairglen Eichlers, you’ll often find the main living areas flow seamlessly into each other, with the beams and ceilings exposed as part of the aesthetic. The open layouts were revolutionary for their time (departing from the small, boxed rooms of pre-war homes) and still encourage a casual, communal lifestyle well-suited to modern living.
Indoor-Outdoor Integration: Perhaps the most beloved feature is the way Eichler homes blur the line between indoors and outdoors. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls and sliding glass doors open to private courtyards or backyards dwell.com. Many models in 95125 are atrium models, built around a central open-air atrium. For example, in Fairglen it’s common to enter an Eichler through a gated front courtyard/atrium, where the front door is actually a sliding glass wall opening to this enclosed patio. The atrium serves as a sheltered outdoor room – often with plants, seating, and even original built-in planters or water features – that floods the interior with natural light dwell.com. Large panes of glass (often including trapezoidal clerestory windows near the roofline) bring sunlight into the homes and offer views of the yard’s greenery while maintaining privacy from the street. As Dwell magazine described one Fairglen listing: “floor-to-ceiling glazing connects the kitchen and dining area with the open-air courtyard,” making indoor meals and gatherings feel connected to nature dwell.com.
Distinctive Rooflines: Eichlers in Willow Glen feature a mix of flat or low-pitched gable roofs en.wikipedia.org. The flat roof models give a sleek, horizontal emphasis – often paired with deep eaves and exposed beams that extend past the glass walls (creating a striking silhouette, as seen in the example photo above). Other models have low-sloping gable roofs (sometimes called hip roofs or shallow A-frames) that still appear almost flat from the street but provide a bit of vaulted ceiling inside. Notably, some Fairglen Eichlers showcase the iconic “double A-frame” roof design – essentially a dramatic dual-gable roofline over the central atrium, which from the front presents two peaked A-frame forms side by side. This double-gable atrium model is one of Eichler’s most celebrated designs; it creates a high, airy atrium space and an imposing facade reminiscent of modernist chapels. These double A-frame Eichlers, with their twin soaring peaks and central glass courtyard, are relatively rare and highly prized by Eichler enthusiasts (they were more commonly built in upscale tracts like Palo Alto and Marin, but a few made their way into Willow Glen) youtube.com. In contrast, the smaller Dry Creek Eichlers include some high-gable A-frame garages and varied roof profiles – reflecting evolving models from the late ’50s. The range of rooflines in 95125 adds visual interest to the neighborhood skyline, yet all share Eichler’s clean, geometric lines.
Materials & Details: Eichler homes are celebrated for their honest use of materials and minimalist detailing. Exteriors often feature mahogany wood paneling, vertical grooved siding, or concrete block accents. Inside, many Fairglen homes retain original Philippine mahogany wall panels that add warmth to the modern design patch.com. Ceilings are tongue-and-groove wood, naturally finished, and exposed beams are a focal point. Floors were typically concrete slab with radiant heating embedded – an innovative feature Eichler embraced to eliminate the need for visible heaters and allow for floor-to-ceiling glass (since wall furnaces/baseboards weren’t needed)en.wikipedia.org. The radiant heat, when functioning, provides gentle warmth through the polished concrete floors (though many owners have updated to modern HVAC or mini-splits now). Original Eichler kitchens featured sliding partition walls and efficient layouts; while many have been remodeled, owners often preserve touches like the globe pendant lights, Thermador slide-up cooktop vent, or other mid-century fixtures where possible. In Fairglen, homes were built with 2-car carports or garages integrated into the design (some models have an open carport that contributes to the home’s entry atrium feel, while others have full garages set behind the facade). The street-facing facades of Eichlers are intentionally modest – garage doors and blank paneled fronts give a sense of privacy, with the drama reserved for the inside and rear of the house. As some humorously note, “garage-door-only facades abound” in Eichler neighborhoods – Eichler wasn’t designing for curb appeal in the traditional sense, but rather for privacy and inward focus. This design ethos creates a quiet streetscape, with each home’s delights revealed only upon entering through the atrium.
Model Types: The Willow Glen Eichlers include a variety of model types and floor plans, thanks to the involvement of multiple architects and the span of years built. Atrium models (with a central courtyard) are common in Fairglen – Eichler introduced the atrium concept around 1958, so many Fairglen homes (built 1959–61) embrace that feature. There are also courtyard “gallery” models which forgo an atrium but have a long gallery hallway and front courtyard – a rarer design attributed to Claude Oakland. A Gallery Model Eichler typically features a central spine hallway (or gallery) connecting living and bedroom wings, and often a distinctive H-shaped or U-shaped layout; a few later Fairglen additions may include variants of this design as Oakland experimented with new layouts in the early ’60s. The “carport” models mentioned in some sources refer to earlier designs where the entry is through an open carport leading into the home (some Dry Creek 1957 homes use this older style). And of course, the Double A-Frame Atrium model is a standout as mentioned. In short, within these tracts you’ll find 4-bedroom models around ~1750 sq ft (such as the one featured in Dwell, which is 4 bed/2 bath, 1,755 sq ft, built 1958 dwell.com), as well as some 3-bedroom models (~1300–1500 sq ft) that were more modestly sized. A few larger 5-bedroom or expanded models (sometimes called “Super-Eichlers” in other areas) are less common here, since Willow Glen’s Eichlers were built slightly before Eichler began routinely offering 5-bedroom designs. Nonetheless, many homes have been tastefully expanded or updated by owners over time – but usually in keeping with Eichler’s style (e.g., converting a garage to living space or adding a small addition in the back, while preserving the street facade). The consistency of materials and form across the neighborhood makes even updated homes blend in harmoniously.
All these architectural features make the Fairglen and Dry Creek Eichlers a delight for fans of modern design. It’s not unusual to see photographers or architecture buffs slowly driving the courts, admiring the mix of flat and gabled roofs, peeking at an open atrium if a front gate is ajar, or enjoying how each homeowner’s personal touches (paint colors, landscaping, period-appropriate front doors) play off the timeless Eichler template. Willow Glen’s Eichler tract is truly a mid-century modern open-air museum, lovingly maintained by its residents.
Real Estate Market Data
Home values in Willow Glen’s Eichler neighborhoods have seen strong appreciation in recent years, fueled by high demand and limited supply. Mid-century modern homes hold broad appeal, and Eichlers – with their iconic design – often command premium prices in Silicon Valley’s market. Here’s an overview of recent real estate trends (as of 2024–2025):
Median & Average Prices: The median sale price for single-family homes in the 95125 ZIP (Willow Glen) is around $2.0 million (as of mid-2025) redfin.com. Eichler homes, in particular, tend to fall around or above this median due to their architectural appeal. A market analysis in Q2 2025 showed a median sale price of ~$2.175M for houses in 95125, with an average sale price of about $2.27M. In other words, many Eichler sales are in the $2M range. Of course, actual prices vary with each property’s size, condition, and updates – smaller or original-condition Eichlers might sell in the high-$1 millions, while beautifully remodeled or larger models have been fetching mid-$2 millions.
Appreciation Trends: Home values in Willow Glen have been on the rise. Year-over-year, Willow Glen’s median sale price was up roughly 10–12% in 2025redfin.com. Over a longer horizon, 95125 houses appreciated about 7.2% per year on average from 2020 to 2025 – a testament to the area’s desirability. Even with normal market fluctuations, Eichler homes here have generally trended upward in value, especially as mid-century design has grown more popular. In late 2022 and 2023 the market saw some cooling (with Bay Area prices dipping slightly), but by 2024 demand had rebounded and Eichler sales were hitting new highs again.
Recent Sale Prices: According to recent sales data, most Fairglen Eichlers have been selling in roughly the $1.8 million to $2.3+ million range over the past 12–24 months. For example, a 4-bedroom Eichler on Fairlawn Ave (1,755 sq ft, impeccably preserved with original wood panels) was listed at $2.349M in mid-2024dwell.com and sold around $2.30Mredfin.com. Another Eichler on Fairglen Drive (4 bed, ~1,728 sq ft) sold for about $2.075M in late 2024eichlernetwork.com. Meanwhile, an Eichler that needed some TLC or was smaller (3-bedroom models) might trade closer to ~$1.6–$1.7M, depending on the extent of work needed. Overall, Eichler homes in Willow Glen tend to meet or exceed the pricing of conventional Willow Glen homes of similar size, thanks to their architectural cachet. It’s worth noting that lot sizes in Fairglen are modest (often around 6,000 sq. ft. per the historic tract designationen.wikipedia.org), so buyers are truly paying for the design and neighborhood rather than land size.
Price per Square Foot: Given the strong prices and modest home sizes, the price per square foot for Eichlers here is relatively high. Recent data put the median price per square foot in Willow Glen at about $1,140 per sq. ft.redfin.com. Eichler properties, when updated, can sometimes go higher on a $/sqft basis because buyers value the design (for instance, paying luxury-level prices for a 1,400 sq ft vintage modern home that might be smaller than a new tract home, but offers incomparable style). Many Eichler listings in 2024 were around $1,000–$1,300 per sq. ft., with the upper end for turnkey renovated examples.
Market Competition: The Willow Glen market is very competitive, and Eichler homes are no exception. Homes in 95125 typically receive multiple offers – Redfin reports an average of 7 offers per home – and sell in around 9–10 days on market redfin.com. In fact, properties often go over asking price; the average sale-to-list ratio in Willow Glen is about 104% (houses selling ~4% above asking on average) redfin.com. In the hottest periods, an Eichler might attract bidding wars from both end-user buyers (drawn to the lifestyle) and investors or developers (though local preservation sentiment usually means Eichlers aren’t flipped or torn down – buyers almost always intend to preserve them). It’s not uncommon for a well-priced Eichler open house to be swarmed with curious buyers and Eichler aficionados, sometimes resulting in offers with limited contingencies and high earnest money to win the deal. The limited supply is a factor – only a few Eichlers come on the market in 95125 each year, so pent-up demand is common.
Original vs. Renovated Values: One interesting aspect of Eichler pricing is the “Eichler paradox” often observed: Homes that are either in beautifully preserved original condition or tastefully renovated with modern upgrades tend to command the highest prices, whereas those that have unsympathetic remodels or deferred maintenance might sell for relatively less. Many Eichler enthusiasts will pay a premium for an “untouched” Eichler time capsule (to restore it lovingly), or for a completely updated one that modernizes systems while respecting the mid-century style. For example, an Eichler with intact mahogany walls, original globes, and unpainted beam ceilings – even if it has an original 1960 kitchen – can attract competitive bids from purist buyers. On the other hand, an Eichler that has a 1980s style remodel or partial addition might actually see a bit of a value discount, since the buyer may budget to undo changes and return the home to a more Eichler-authentic state. In Willow Glen, we’ve seen fully renovated Eichlers (with new roofs, updated kitchens/baths, upgraded electrical, etc.) sell at the top of the range – e.g., the Fairglen open-house showcase in 2024 that had new everything (foam roof, mini-split HVAC, solar panels, luxury kitchen, etc.) and still retained Eichler character, which attracted high offers and was even featured in CA Modern magazine and Atomic Ranch patch.com. Meanwhile, a fixer-upper Eichler, while rare to find, presents a more affordable entry point (relatively speaking). This dynamic means return on investment for Eichler upgrades can be strong – and also that buyers should be prepared that a “cheaper” Eichler likely needs significant work.
Days on Market & Seasonality: As noted, days-on-market (DOM) are low – averaging around 10–12 days for 95125 houses in recent reports. Eichlers often sell even faster due to dedicated networks of Eichler fans watching the listings. However, because Eichlers are unique, occasionally a very high-end priced Eichler might take a bit longer if waiting for the right appreciative buyer (some buyers not familiar with mid-century homes might be hesitant about features like flat roofs or radiant heat). In general, though, any Eichler listing that is well-priced will see immediate attention. The seasonality follows the broader market: spring and early summer tend to have the most activity. In the spring months, a couple of Eichler listings can hit the market around the same time, often timed before the annual Willow Glen Eichler Home Tour (more on that below) which further boosts interest. By contrast, winters are quieter; it’s not uncommon for zero Eichlers to be on market in the winter, which makes any off-season listing an event in the community (and sometimes an opportunity for buyers to snag one with a bit less competition).
In summary, owning an Eichler in Willow Glen is both a lifestyle choice and a sound investment. The combination of architectural significance, limited supply, and Willow Glen’s general upward trajectory in home values has made these properties a hot commodity. Buyers are advised to be pre-approved, act fast, and often come in with strong offers (sometimes non-contingent) to win their dream Eichler. For homeowners, maintaining the Eichler’s character (e.g. keeping those tongue-and-groove ceilings unpainted, or using appropriate materials in renovations) can pay off in preserving value and attracting the right buyers who will appreciate the home. Overall, the market outlook remains positive – as mid-century design continues to be celebrated, these “California Modern” gems in 95125 should enjoy enduring appeal.
Schools & Education
A major draw for families to Willow Glen – beyond the Eichler homes themselves – is the quality education options in the area. The neighborhood is served by the San Jose Unified School District, and local public schools enjoy a solid reputation, often enhancing property values and buyer demand in 95125. Key schools for the Eichler tract include Booksin Elementary School, Willow Glen Middle School, and Willow Glen High School, all of which are either within walking distance or a short drive from the Fairglen area.
Booksin Elementary School: Arguably one of the most sought-after public elementary schools in San Jose Unified, Booksin Elementary has long been a cornerstone of the Willow Glen community. It boasts high performance metrics – for example, Booksin ranks in the top 10% of elementary schools statewide for test scores and academic outcomes publicschoolreview.com. GreatSchools.org currently rates Booksin around 7/10 (which is above average for California) greatschools.org, but many local parents will tell you the school feels like a 10/10 given its strong PTA support, involved parent community, and experienced teachers. The school serves K-5 and is located conveniently on Booksin Ave just south of the Eichler tract (families in Fairglen can literally walk their kids to school down Booksin Avenue). Homes within Booksin’s attendance boundary often see a value boost – it’s not uncommon for listings to highlight “Booksin Elementary” as a selling point. The school offers a well-rounded curriculum and has enrichment programs that benefit from active fundraising (one charming aspect: the annual Booksin Walkathon is a big neighborhood event, and you’ll see yard signs up and families out supporting it each year). For Eichler families, the ability to send kids to a high-quality neighborhood school just a few blocks away is a huge plus.
Willow Glen Middle & High School: After Booksin, students matriculate to Willow Glen Middle School (WGMS) for grades 6–8, and then Willow Glen High School (WGHS) for 9–12. Academically, Willow Glen Middle is a solid school with a broad curriculum, though not as lauded as the elementary; it offers various electives, music and arts programs, and has an emerging STEAM focus. Test scores at WGMS are around the middle of the pack for California (GreatSchools gives it about 4/10, reflecting some achievement gaps) greatschools.org, but the school has many dedicated teachers and a diverse student body. For high school, Willow Glen High is well-regarded, considered one of the stronger comprehensive public high schools in San Jose Unified. U.S. News ranks WGHS in the top 20% of high schools in California (currently #361 statewide) usnews.com, noting strong AP course offerings and a high graduation rate. GreatSchools also rates it 7/10 greatschools.org. The high school, located on Cottle Avenue (about a mile from Fairglen), has undergone improvements in recent years, including updated sports facilities and an expanded AP program. It’s known for its spirited community – the Willow Glen Rams – and for solid programs in athletics, drama, and robotics. For Eichler homeowners, having a reliable public high school option is important, and many families do choose to stay in the public pathway through 12th grade. The presence of all three levels of public schooling within the neighborhood (elementary, middle, high) fosters a strong family-friendly atmosphere – you’ll see kids of all ages in the neighborhood and often hear the distant cheers of Friday night football games from WGHS in the fall.
Private Schools: In addition to public schools, Willow Glen offers convenient access to several private schools that families may consider. For instance, St. Christopher School, a well-regarded K-8 Catholic school, is just around the corner (adjacent to the Eichler tract on Booksin Ave at Curtner). For high school, options like Valley Christian, Bellarmine College Prep, Presentation High, or Archbishop Mitty are within a reasonable commute. While these private schools draw students from all over San Jose, it’s not unusual for Willow Glen families to attend them. The availability of quality private education nearby can be a plus for property values too, as it attracts a wider pool of buyers (including those for whom public school ratings might be a concern – they have alternatives without needing to leave the area).
In summary, Willow Glen’s Eichler neighborhoods benefit from strong education infrastructure. The combination of a top-notch elementary (Booksin) and a well-regarded unified middle/high path means families can put down roots here with confidence in their children’s schooling. This “small-town” style alignment – where kids often know their classmates from kindergarten through high school – adds to the close-knit feel of the community. It’s worth noting that the strong school appeal has been one factor sustaining Willow Glen home demand even in softer markets. Many Eichler buyers are young families moving up from condos or smaller homes elsewhere, specifically seeking entry into the Booksin/Willow Glen schools. And even those without kids appreciate the added resale value that good schools bestow.
For Eichler owners who are also parents, there’s pride in the fact that their kids get to grow up in a design-rich environment and a great school environment simultaneously – truly the best of both worlds.
Eichler Lifestyle & Community
One cannot talk about Willow Glen’s Eichlers without highlighting the vibrant community spirit and unique lifestyle enjoyed by residents. Living in an Eichler tract is not just about the house; it’s about being part of an enclave that values architecture, camaraderie, and neighborhood charm. In Willow Glen, this spirit is perhaps as strong as anywhere in California, blending the broader Willow Glen “small-town” ambiance with the special bond of Eichler home ownership.
Willow Glen Charm: Willow Glen in general is famed for its “small-town feel” within the big city of San Jose. The Eichler streets are no exception – tree-lined, decorated with seasonal flags or lights, and buzzing with friendly neighbors. During holidays, many homes go all-out with decorations (you should see some Eichlers lit up with retro Christmas lights come December!). The wider Willow Glen area hosts events like Wine Walks on Lincoln Ave, a Holiday Lights “Yule Love It!” contest, and Founders’ Day Parade, which Eichler neighbors often attend together. On any given evening, you might see couples strolling with dogs or kids along Fairglen Drive, heading toward downtown for dinner or just chatting with neighbors on the sidewalk. The sidewalks and front yards in Eichler tracts often become social spaces – despite Eichlers being designed for privacy, residents will frequently hang out in front with neighbors, whether it’s supervising kids playing or sharing gardening tips. Indeed, the gardens and landscaping around Eichler homes are another point of pride – many homeowners have mid-century inspired plantings (succulents, Japanese maples, olive trees) and will eagerly swap advice on restoring breezeblock fences or modern house numbers. Willow Glen’s legacy of being a former agricultural community means fertile soil – lemon and persimmon trees are abundant in yards, and it’s not uncommon for neighbors to leave excess fruits or vegetables on a front table for others to take.
Neighborhood Association & Events: The Fairglen Eichlers Neighborhood Association (informal but active) helps organize events and keep neighbors connected. Residents communicate via platforms like Nextdoor and an email list, and there’s even a community-run website (fairgleneichlers.org) with resources and historical info. One marquee event is the annual Fairglen Eichler Home Tour – typically held in spring – where several homeowners open their doors for ticketed tours benefitting a local cause or the association. Architecture enthusiasts from all over Silicon Valley come to stroll the tract and peek inside a handful of beautifully maintained Eichlers. This home tour has become a beloved tradition (often selling out quickly), and it embodies the pride residents take in their homes. As Eichler Network once noted, Fairglen’s “infectious neighborliness” sets it apart. Indeed, block parties are common – summers bring potluck BBQs where neighbors gather in a cul-de-sac with lawn chairs and coolers, kids running around as classic 60s tunes play. During the winter holidays, neighbors sometimes coordinate an Eichler Luminary Night, lining driveways with glowing lanterns or hosting a progressive dinner party. The Fairglen Neighborhood Art & Wine Festival was launched a few years ago, showcasing local artists (some from within the Eichler community) with an outdoor pop-up gallery and wine tasting – another example of the tight-knit and creative spirit herefairgleneichlers.org.
Mid-Century Preservation Ethos: There is a strong shared ethos among these homeowners to preserve the mid-century modern character of the neighborhood. When someone considers an exterior change, they often seek advice from neighbors or the association to ensure it’s Eichler-friendly. The creation of the Eichler Neighborhood Preservation Committee in 2016 (mentioned earlier) is a case in point – residents volunteered time to document every home’s original features and champion the historic designation fairgleneichlers.org. While modifications are certainly made (many homes have new roofs, solar panels, room additions, etc.), they are usually done in a way that harmonizes with the Eichler aesthetic. In fact, design guidelines were collaboratively developed to help homeowners (and contractors) make compatible choices – for example, suggesting foam roofing, using clerestory windows in additions, or avoiding raising roof heights that alter the profile. The result is a neighborhood that, in 2025, looks remarkably similar to how it did in the 1960s (minus the vintage cars in the driveways!). This dedication has mutual benefits: it not only maintains the coherent look (pleasing everyone’s eyes), but also protects property values. The National Register listing further bolsters this by formally recognizing the tract’s importance – a point of pride you’ll hear neighbors mention when welcoming a newcomer: “Did you know we’re a National Register Historic District?” It’s said not to restrict, but to celebrate. Residents even successfully worked with the City of San Jose on Eichler-specific design standards to ensure that any new nearby construction or remodeling would be in keeping with the mid-century character sanjoseca.gov. This advocacy underscores how passionate the community is about their “Eichler lifestyle.”
Community Pride and Inclusion: Living in Fairglen or the Dry Creek Eichlers also means joining a friendly club of Eichler owners citywide. Eichler owners tend to be enthusiasts, and you’ll often see Willow Glen Eichler owners participating in broader events like the Eichler Network’s forums, or touring other Eichler neighborhoods (there’s a bit of a camaraderie and gentle rivalry with other Eichler tracts – e.g., Palo Alto’s Eichlers or those in Orange County). The Fairglen folks are particularly proud because theirs is one of the largest Eichler communities in Southern Santa Clara County and now historically recognized. They even have branded swag – at home tours you’ll find volunteers wearing Fairglen Eichler t-shirts and selling mugs or posters with Eichler designs to fundraise for neighborhood projects. New residents are usually welcomed with open arms; some longtime owners host meet-and-greet gatherings for newcomers, sharing contacts for Eichler-savvy contractors or inviting them to the next block party. It’s a very inclusive vibe – whether you’re a young tech professional who just bought and are learning what a Eichler boiler is, or an original owner who’s lived there 60+ years (and yes, Fairglen does still have a few original owners or second-generation families). This generational mix is lovely: original owners share stories of buying the homes new (for ~$20k back in the day) and can even hand down original blueprints; newer owners bring fresh energy and often restored the homes with a mix of respect and innovation (like installing period-appropriate globe lights with smart bulbs!).
Lifestyle Perks: Day to day, life in the Eichler community is tranquil and nostalgic. Many homes have backyards with swimming pools or patios that become social hubs for friends and neighbors on weekends. Because of the atrium layouts, it’s common for neighbors to wave hello through the atrium if doors are open, or stop by when they smell a backyard BBQ firing up. The privacy of the homes (high fences, enclosed courtyards) means one can retreat and relax, yet whenever you want to be social, you just walk out front and chances are someone is gardening or walking by. The Eichler lifestyle also tends to attract those who enjoy design, art, and culture – you’ll find mid-century furniture inside many homes, and owners exchanging tips on where to find an Eames lounge or a Nelson Bubble Lamp. Some even coordinate to hire Eichler-experienced tradespeople together (for instance, doing a “group buy” on restoring original Eichler globe lights or having a painter do multiple houses in Eichler-appropriate color schemes). This cooperative spirit makes maintaining these older homes more fun and less of a burden.
In essence, the Eichler community in Willow Glen offers a supportive, warm environment where neighbors bond over a shared love of architecture and a laid-back, festive way of life. As Eichler Network once featured, Fairglen’s brand of neighborliness is “infectious,” and it truly transforms homeownership from a private experience into a community experience. It’s Mid-Century Modern living with a heart – where you not only enjoy post-and-beam perfection in your own living room, but also step outside to find a circle of friends equally passionate about preserving the neighborhood’s mid-century masterpiece for generations to come.
Why Work with the Boyenga Team
Buying or selling an Eichler home is a specialized endeavor – and that’s where the Boyenga Team excels. As leading Realtors in Silicon Valley (and proud Willow Glen locals), the Boyenga Team offers unmatched expertise in the Eichler market, particularly in 95125’s Eichler enclaves. Eric and Janelle Boyenga, known as “The Property Nerds” eichlerhomesforsale.com, have built a reputation as Eichler experts who intimately understand the design, history, and value nuances of these mid-century homes. Here’s why partnering with the Boyenga Team gives you a distinct advantage in the Willow Glen Eichler market:
Deep Eichler Experience: The Boyenga Team has represented numerous Eichler transactions across the South Bay and Peninsula, including many in Willow Glen’s Fairglen tract. They appreciate what makes these homes special – from the correct pricing of an atrium model with original features, to knowing which upgrades (foam roof, double-pane clerestory windows, etc.) add value for Eichler buyers. This experience translates into accurate valuations and insightful guidance. For sellers, the Boyenga Team can highlight the unique selling points of your Eichler (they’ll know if your model is a rare Gallery or Double-A Frame, for instance, and market that to the right audience). For buyers, they can identify potential issues particular to Eichlers (like inspecting radiant heating systems or unpermitted modifications) and connect you with a network of Eichler-qualified inspectors and contractors. Their track record of successful Eichler sales means you can trust their strategies – indeed, many of their Eichler listings have been featured in publications like CA Modern magazine, Dwell, or SFGate due to the Boyengas’ knack for storytelling and marketing mid-century homes patch.com.
Compass 3-Phase Marketing Strategy: As part of Compass, the Boyenga Team leverages an industry-leading 3-Phased Marketing Strategy to maximize exposure and sales price for your home. This approach gives your Eichler listing multiple stages of buzz. Phase 1: Compass Private Exclusive – Boyenga can first market your home privately within a network of 34,000+ Compass agents and their clients compass-homeowners.com. This allows testing an aspirational price and gathering feedback while creating early demand, without days-on-market accruing publicly compass-homeowners.com. Often, a Compass private exclusive can yield an offer at a premium from a motivated buyer who doesn’t want to lose the home. Phase 2: Compass Coming Soon – Next, the Boyenga Team will publicly pre-market the home on Compass.com and coming-soon channels, showcasing it to internet buyers without starting the MLS clock compass-homeowners.com. During this phase, they gather engagement data (views, inquiries) that help fine-tune the final launch and generate excitement that “something special is coming to market” compass-homeowners.com. Phase 3: Go Live on MLS and all platforms – Finally, the home is listed on MLS and syndicated everywhere, hitting the open market with momentum already built from the previous phases compass-homeowners.com. This 3-phase roll-out, much like a movie teaser->trailer->premiere, has proven highly effective at driving competition and higher offers. For Eichler sellers, it means your home isn’t just another listing – it’s an exclusive offering with a strategic launch plan. The Boyenga Team has mastered this Compass playbook, giving their clients a significant marketing edge (one reason they are among Compass’s founding agent partners in the Bay Area).
Compass Technology & Concierge: In addition to the phased strategy, Boyenga clients benefit from Compass’s platform tools. The team utilizes Compass Concierge, a program that can front the cost of home improvements to prepare your Eichler for sale (such as paint, staging, landscaping, even polishing a concrete floor), with no upfront cost to the seller – helping you net a higher price without the stress. They also harness Compass’s digital marketing – stunning professional photography, 3D virtual tours, targeted online ads, and social media campaigns (if you follow @boyengateam on Instagram, you’ve likely seen gorgeous Eichler posts and open house announcements that attract throngs of mid-mod fans). The Boyenga Team’s own website and mailing list reach a large pool of Eichler enthusiasts and past clients, ensuring any Eichler listing gets in front of the right audience. Moreover, the Boyengas’ savvy with data means they price homes just right and use analytics to inform strategy (true to their “Property Nerds” moniker!). All of this translates into faster sales and higher returns – critical in a competitive market.
HomeLight Partnership – Buy Before You Sell: One standout offering the Boyenga Team provides, in partnership with HomeLight, is innovative solutions for clients who are buying and selling simultaneously. For example, through HomeLight’s program (which the Boyengas help facilitate), sellers can “Buy Before You Sell” – accessing up to 70% of your current home’s equity via a 0% interest bridge loan to purchase your next home non-contingent eichlerhomesforsale.com. This is a game-changer if you’ve fallen in love with another property but haven’t sold your Eichler yet. The Boyenga Team will coordinate this process: HomeLight essentially makes you a cash buyer for your new home, you move in, then the Boyenga Team expertly sells your Eichler. If your old home doesn’t sell within the agreed timeframe, HomeLight will buy it at a pre-approved price, guaranteeing your sale eichlerhomesforsale.com. This removes the stress of timing and double moves. In a fast-moving market like ours, such financial agility can be the difference in securing your next dream home. The Boyengas are certified agents with HomeLight and have successfully used this program for clients in Willow Glen, which is a testament to their commitment to smooth, client-friendly transactions.
HomeLight “Simple Sale” & Other Tools: For those who prioritize speed or have a special situation (estate sale, need to liquidate property quickly), the Boyenga Team can also leverage HomeLight’s Simple Sale program. This connects sellers with a network of vetted cash buyers for an off-market sale, often yielding a competitive cash offer in as little as 10 days eichlerhomesforsale.com. If your Eichler, say, needs extensive repairs that you don’t want to undertake, this could be an option – you get a quick, as-is sale. The Boyenga Team will advise if this or a traditional market sale (with Compass Concierge upgrades) makes more sense for your goals, always keeping your best interest at heart. Additionally, Boyenga employs tech like HomeLight Listing Management (HLM) – a digital platform (formerly Disclosures.io) that streamlines all disclosures, reports, and offers in one place eichlerhomesforsale.com. This means whether you are buying or selling, you experience a highly organized, transparent process with e-signatures, shared documents, and real-time offer comparisons. Clients often comment how smooth their transaction feels with the Boyengas – no wonder, given the team’s blend of personal touch with Silicon Valley tech efficiency.
Local Knowledge & Network: Being longtime locals and top agents in the area, the Boyenga Team has an extensive network – from trusted contractors who know Eichlers (need a recommendation for that foam roof or boiler repair? They have it), to connections with other agents who may have Eichler buyers waiting in the wings. They often know about Eichlers coming on market before the general public, giving their buyer clients a jump. For sellers, this network means they can drum up interest through agent-to-agent channels and even matchmake a sale if the situation calls for it. The Boyengas are also part of the Compass Private Client Network, connecting luxury and specialty property agents across the country – useful for marketing a unique home like an Eichler to out-of-area buyers who appreciate architecture. And let’s not forget their HomeLight Elite Agent status – HomeLight, a platform that ranks agents by performance, has the Boyenga Team at the top tier, which translates into more referrals and credibility.
Proven Results & Client Satisfaction: Ultimately, the Boyenga Team’s value is proven in results. They consistently achieve top-dollar sales for Eichler homes – often setting neighborhood high marks. Their listings tend to sell quickly and with multiple offers (many with favorable terms like rent-backs or minimal contingencies negotiated thanks to Boyenga’s skill). Client testimonials frequently cite their professionalism, marketing prowess, and deep understanding of mid-century homes. Whether it’s advising a seller on which original features to spotlight (they might say, “Don’t you dare paint that wood paneling – it’s a feature!”) or helping a buyer navigate a bidding war calmly, they bring a steady, knowledgeable hand to the process. As founding partners at Compass and seasoned negotiators, Eric & Janelle Boyenga and their team instill confidence – you know you’re guided by agents who have seen and done it all, yet treat each client with personalized care.
In conclusion, working with the Boyenga Team means you’re not just getting agents – you’re getting Eichler advocates on your side. They will market the lifestyle that comes with your Willow Glen Eichler, not just the specs of the house, drawing in the right buyers who value it as much as you do. And if you’re buying, they’ll ensure you understand exactly what you’re getting (the joys of an atrium and the responsibilities of an older home) and position you to win your ideal property. With their combination of local Eichler expertise, Compass’s cutting-edge platform (3-phase marketing, Concierge), and HomeLight’s innovative financing tools, the Boyenga Team provides an all-encompassing solution to make your Eichler transaction smooth, rewarding, and even enjoyable.
Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re captivated by the idea of living in a mid-century modern masterpiece, or you’re an Eichler homeowner looking to maximize your sale, the Boyenga Team is here to help. Reach out today to experience firsthand why they’re known as the Eichler Home experts and how they can make your real estate goals in Willow Glen a reality.