National

Chic hexagonal home sells for 101% over asking price in the Bay Area. See why

Everyone has heard stories of skyrocketing prices in real estate in California’s popular Bay Area. And now a particularly gorgeous house with a comfortable asking price managed to go way over the original number.

Way, way over.

It’s called The Foley House, and it’s known for its hexagon shape and breathtaking views of the city by the water. Built in 1963, the home has never exchanged hands before and has belonged to the original owner who had it commissioned to be built in Berkeley, a news release said.

“Everything is original from when it was built by (John Hans) Ostwald, single owner, panoramic Bay Views, hexagon shape of the home, mid-century modern design,” the release said.

Ostwald is a popular name in the Bay Area and is known for his “Swiss functional aesthetic.” His work includes the Bancroft Center, South Branch Library and St. John’s Presbyterian Church, the release says.

Open Homes Photography

While the shape and style of the home certainly brought in potential buyers, it wasn’t the main draw. Originally listed for $795,000, the residence sold for over 101 percent over the asking price in just 14 days, thanks in part to its phenomenal views.

“Views are of the Bay Bridge, San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge & Marin. Many properties in the Berkeley Hills have views of bay bridge or Golden Gate bridge, rarely are there full bay views,” the release said.

Sellers believed it was a combination of things that led to such a high, over-asking ending, which included the location and architecture.

“This home was particularly captivating because of a combination of factors: people LOVE Mid-Century-Modern (particularly when the home is either original, or, if renovated, when it’s done so in a way that honors the original home); this home is both close to amenities but also has amazing views; it was designed by a well known architect; it is unique in design; it is in very original condition; it was priced attractively,” the release said.

The two-bedroom, two-bathroom home has San Francisco Bay and city views.
The two-bedroom, two-bathroom home has San Francisco Bay and city views. Open Homes Photography

Features inside the two-bedroom, two-bathroom home, per the listing, include:

  • Redwood walls

  • Oak floors

  • Copper fireplace

  • Balcony

  • Terraced backyard

  • Garden

The listing was held by Kai Real Estate.

A 1963 Berkeley mid-century modern home featuring all original design elements was on the market for just two weeks and sold for 101% over the listing price, at $1.6 million.
A 1963 Berkeley mid-century modern home featuring all original design elements was on the market for just two weeks and sold for 101% over the listing price, at $1.6 million. Open Homes Photography
Read Next
Read Next

This story was originally published March 18, 2025 at 2:33 PM with the headline "Chic hexagonal home sells for 101% over asking price in the Bay Area. See why."

TJ Macias
Fort Worth Star-Telegram
TJ Macías is a Real-Time national sports reporter for McClatchy based out of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Formerly, TJ covered the Dallas Mavericks and Texas Rangers beat for numerous media outlets including 24/7 Sports and Mavs Maven (Sports Illustrated). Twitter: @TayloredSiren
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER