THE LIFESTYLE
1808 POLI STREET
Presented by Toni Guy
WHAT’S INSIDE
The Story of Ventura
The Story of Hobson Heights
Top 10 Things We’ll Miss
Make Yourself At Home
Interesting Facts about Hobson Heights
Things To Do Around Ventura
OF VENTURA STORY THE
Ventura is a small coastal town situated along the southern California corridor, conveniently located between the two major cities of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.
Ventura has been inhabited by different peoples, including the Chumash Native Americans, for at least 10,000 years. With the arrival of Spanish missionaries in 1782, Mission San Buenaventura was established by Junípero Serra, giving the city its name. The mission played a central role in the region’s development.
Ventura is known for its scenic coastline and beautiful beaches, including Ventura State Beach and Surfer’s Point. The Pacific Ocean is not only within easy reach but also feels like an integral part of Ventura. The city has a rich cultural and culinary diversity, with a variety of great taquerias, ramen joints, and Tex-Mex bars along the coast.
Ventura’s combination of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, cultural offerings, and community events makes it an appealing place to live for those who appreciate a coastal lifestyle with a mix of urban and natural amenities.
OF HOBSON HEIGHTS STORY THE
DISCOVER A CENTURY OF Charm & History
Step into a world where Spanish-revival houses blend seamlessly with rolling hills and breathtaking ocean views.
Hobson Heights, Ventura’s premier neighborhood since 1923, invites you to explore its rich heritage and vibrant community.
Hobson Heights is made up of 220 custom single-family houses, the majority were built in the late 1920’s after Ventura’s oil boom which infused our peaceful seaside town with newfound wealth and jobs. Abram Lincoln Hobson brought Ventura’s first premier neighborhood to life in 1923 to provide housing for the growing
merchant class. He envisioned Italian-style / Spanishrevival houses (considered the most modern style at the time) with ocean views, and cutting-edge features like paved roads, underground utilities and lamp posts. The neighborhood includes mostly single -family homes except for a handful of multiresidential and commercial properties located mostly along the north side of Main Street and Evans Ave.
Today, Hobson Heights is still one the most sought after neighborhoods in Ventura due to the iconic architecture, historical relevance, sweeping ocean and island views and fantastic orientation to charming Downtown Ventura and the beach.
A beautifully restored 1926 Spanish Revival in one of Ventura’s most beloved neighborhoods, thoughtfully updated for modern living.
Set in Ventura’s coveted Hobson Heights neighborhood, this unique home combines timeless architectural character, inviting gathering spaces, and the easy indoor-outdoor lifestyle that defines coastal Ventura living. Original oak floors, a charming fireplace, abundant natural
light, and graceful architectural details create an immediate sense of warmth. At the heart of the home, the open-concept kitchen, dining, and living spaces were designed for gathering, with expansive glass doors opening to a spacious view deck overlooking Hobson Heights, swaying palm trees, and a peek of the Pacific beyond.
The main level offers comfortable single-level living with two bedrooms and two beautifully
remodeled bathrooms. The primary suite opens directly to the deck and features a beautifully designed bathroom with a generous walkin shower, abundant storage, and a calming, spa-like atmosphere. It has become one of the owners’ favorite spaces in the home.
Downstairs, a private third bedroom and bath with a separate entrance provide exceptional flexibility for guests, extended family, creative pursuits, a home office, or potential future ADU use.
Outside, sun-filled gardens, raised planting beds, multiple entertaining areas, and a gas fire pit create a private backyard retreat. Thanks to the southfacing garden, avocado, lemon, orange and lime trees are laden with fruit
A detached finished two-car garage with its own mini-split system offers valuable bonus space for a studio, gym, office, or workshop. An electric car charger is located along the driveway for EV ease.
What truly sets this home apart, however, is its lifestyle. Leave the car at home and enjoy the best of Midtown living, with beloved coffee shops, restaurants, markets, downtown Ventura, nearby beaches, and hillside walking trails all within easy reach. It’s the kind of neighborhood where evenings end on the deck watching the sunset and weekends begin with coffee from a favorite local café, browsing the bookstore, and lingering over lunch with friends. A beautifully restored Spanish Revival. A complete modern renovation. And the kind of lifestyle people move to Ventura to find.
TOP 10 THINGS
WE’LL MISS
By Homeowners Jim and Jan
LEAVING THE CAR AT HOME
1.
THE LIGHT IN THE KITCHEN
No matter the season or the weather, the wall of windows fills the kitchen with natural light. Even on overcast days, the house feels bright and cheerful.
SUNSET EVENINGS ON THE DECK
Some of our favorite moments have been watching the sun go down from the living room, dining room, or deck. The winter sunsets are especially beautiful.
We’ll miss being able to head out for coffee, lunch, groceries, or a night out without having to think twice about getting in the car. Everything feels close by.
6. 2. 4. 3.
GATHERING FRIENDS & FAMILY HERE
This house was made for entertaining. We hosted our engagement party here, and with the open floor plan, deck, and indoor-outdoor flow, it always felt easy to bring people together.
7. 8. 10. 5.
MUSIC THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE
One of the little luxuries we’ll miss is having music playing throughout the home and outside on the deck. It made everything from dinner parties to quiet evenings feel special.
THE DETACHED GARAGE
The garage became so much more than a garage. We’ve used it as an office, workout space, and retreat, and loved being able to focus there without distractions from the house.
THE FIREPLACE
The fireplace is original to the home, and refinishing it was one of our favorite parts of the renovation. It brings so much warmth and character to the living room.
THE BACKYARD SUNSHINE
The backyard always seems to catch the light. It’s warm, inviting, and has been the perfect place for gardening, relaxing, and spending time together.
9.
THE GUEST SUITE DOWNSTAIRS
Friends and family always felt comfortable staying with us because they had their own space. The private bedroom and large bathroom downstairs gave everyone room to spread out and relax.
THE CHARACTER WE FELL IN LOVE WITH
The original oak floors, curved ceiling, and timeless details are what drew us to the home in the first place. We worked hard to preserve that character while making the home our own.
THOUGHTFULLY REIMAGINED FOR MODERN LIVING
Behind the home’s timeless 1926 Spanish Revival character lies an extensive 2022 renovation designed to enhance both comfort and functionality while preserving its architectural soul.
Major improvements include new electrical and plumbing systems, upgraded insulation, new drywall and interior finishes, dual-pane windows and doors, HVAC with air conditioning, and a tankless water heater. The kitchen and all three bathrooms were completely remodeled with quality finishes and thoughtful design.
The home also features Bosch appliances, a wine refrigerator, in-ceiling and outdoor speakers, smart-home technology including Google Nest systems, camera prewiring, copper gutters, a finished garage with its own mini-split system, a dedicated storage room, landscape enhancements, and a hardline gas fire pit for outdoor entertaining.
From the infrastructure to the finishing touches, nearly every aspect of the property was carefully updated, creating a home that feels both historic and effortlessly modern.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOBSON HEIGHTS
INTERESTING FACTS
About Hobson Heights
Cemetery Memorial Park is located off Poli street, a short stroll from Hobson Heights. More than a century ago, the town of Ventura ended at Cemetery Memorial Park, where people now come to watch the sunset or exercise their dogs. But this grassy knoll holds a secret. Once the original cemetery for Ventura, more than 3,000 pioneers and war veterans are still buried here. Can you find the headstone for William Dewey Hobson, the man considered the father of Ventura County? W.D Hobson was the father of A.L Hobson who created Hobson Heights.
In 1923, Hobson Heights had recorded declaration of covenants, conditions and regulations (CC&Rs) that stated only non-Caucasians could reside in Hobson Heights, with an exception for servants. Thankfully, modern fair housing and equality laws have rendered such restrictions ghosts of the past. Today, Hobson Heights is a diverse neighborhood.
Residents range from descendants of the founding families of Ventura to newcomers who hail from all corners of the world.
In 2023, Hobson Heights celebrated its centennial. In January 2024, a documentary uncovering the forgotten history of the neighborhood and highlighting the architecture and past residents was screened at the Museum of Ventura County with approx 400 people in attendance. The event featured over 60 paintings of the neighborhood by the Plein Air Painters society, live music, Ford Model Ts and an archival exhibit.
There are currently only 3 landmark houses in Hobson Heights. As more people learn about the Mills Act and wish to preserve the integrity of their houses, we’d love to see more homeowners take advantage of the tax breaks which help pay for preserving the architecture of our Hobson Heights jewels.
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN HOBSON HEIGHTS
1.
2.
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Most houses in Hobson Heights have ocean and island views, ranging from partial to sweeping depending on location. On clear days, you can see through the iconic Arch Rock on Anacapa island, a natural seabridge.
The sunsets enjoyed from Hobson Heights are exquisite. Pinks, oranges and reds sweep the skies most days of the year, but our most breathtaking sunsets happen during the winter months.
Each daylight hour is marked by the melodic chimes of Community Presbyterian Church (built in 1928). Reminiscent of charming European villages, the chimes run until 8pm each day. The beautiful bell tower is lit up at night, visible during evening strolls.
4.
6.
Hobson Heights is a diverse neighborhood. Residents range from descendants of the founding families of Ventura to newcomers who hail from all corners of the world. Many neighbors get together for dinner parties and celebrate holidays together.
The annual 4th of July Push ‘em Pull ‘em parade starts below Cemetery Memorial Park and is a fun, small-town tradition to join with kids, pets and other Venturans.
8.
Hiking! Every day you’ll meet people walking the hills of Hobson Heights to take in the views and architecture. The Ventura Hills Nature Preserve is an amazing trail owned and maintained by the Ventura Land Trust.
Explore! There are many local Midtown businesses like coffee shops, wine bars, restaurants, bookstores and more. Ventura High School is only a short distance away.
9.
Charming Downtown Ventura is just a mile away. You can take a 1-hour walk or bike ride loop encompassing downtown, the beach and back home.
10. 5.
Cemetery Memorial Park is located off Poli street, not far from Hobson Heights. Set on a gently sloping hill, this park becomes a dog meet-up during the day and is the perfect place to join a yoga class, commune with friends and take in the sunset.
Gardeners love Hobson Heights. Many residents are proud of their prolific avocado and citrus trees. Plums, apples, persimmons, and grapes also thrive in our soil.
THE NUMBERS
• 15 years average stay in Hobson Heights
• 2.7% turnover rate
66.22% of residents have owned their homes for 20+ years
72% of residents have owned their homes for 10 to 20 years
• 67% are owner occupied
• 37% are empty nesters
PROPERTY BREAKDOWN
• 220 Single Family Homes
• 8 Duplexes
1 Triplex
• 9 Quadruplexes
6 Apartment Houses (5+ Units)
• 1 Church
• 6 Vacant
Residential Lots
2 Vacant
Commercial Lots
• 32 Commercial Properties / Offices / Stores / Restaurants
• 3 Landmark Homes
THINGS TO DO AROUND VENTURA
CHILL AT THE BEACH
Relax on the beaches of Ventura, including Ventura State Beach and Emma Wood State Beach. Enjoy sunbathing, picnicking, swimming, and beach volleyball.
WALK ALONG VENTURA PIER
Take a stroll along the Ventura Pier, enjoy scenic views of the coastline, and explore the nearby promenade featuring shops, restaurants, and street performers.
DROP BY THE FARMERS’ MARKETS
Experience the local flavors by visiting one of Ventura’s farmers’ markets.
WANDER THROUGH DOWNTOWN VENTURA
Downtown Ventura is the historic and cultural heart of the city, offering a mix of charming architecture, eclectic shops, restaurants, bars & breweries, and cultural venues.
VENTURE TO CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Resting off Ventura’s coast, the five islands that comprise Channel Islands National Park are a wonderland like no other.
Sweeping ocean views, tiny foxes, hiking, snorkeling, sea cave kayaking, and backcountry camping, all just a boat ride away.
ENJOY THE OUTDOORS
Ventura offers several hiking and biking opportunities with scenic trails that showcase the city’s natural beauty and stunning coastal landscapes.
VISIT THE VENTURA BOTANICAL GARDENS
The Ventura Botanical Gardens is a public garden with diverse plant life that provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the city of Ventura, the Pacific Ocean, and the Channel Islands.
CHECK OUT THE LIVE MUSIC VENUES
Ventura has a diverse and lively music scene that caters to various tastes. The Majestic Ventura Theater is a historic venue that hosts concerts, while smaller spaces like The Hong Kong Inn provide more intimate settings.
SURF AT SURFER’S POINT
Ventura is known for its surfing culture, and Surfer’s Point is a popular spot for surfers of all levels. You can either catch some waves or simply enjoy watching the surfers.
TAKE A DAY TRIP TO OJAI
Venture to the nearby town of Ojai, known for its artistic community, outdoor activities, wine tasting, and more.
These are just a few of the many wonderful experiences to enjoy in and around Ventura, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary delights for everyone.
Toni Guy is a top-producing Ventura County real estate advisor with over 20 years of full-time experience, known for pairing creative storytelling with smart, steady negotiation. She specializes in character homes, hillside properties, and legacy neighborhoods — with Hobson Heights at the heart of her work.
Born in New Zealand and happily rooted in Ventura, Toni brings Kiwi humor, deep local knowledge, and a genuine love of place to every client experience. A longtime Hobson Heights resident and advocate, she wrote, produced, and narrated the 50-minute documentary The Legends of Hobson Heights, celebrating the neighborhood’s architecture, triumphs, and layered human stories. In 2025, she also created and hosted the Hobson Heights Home & Garden Tour, raising over $23,000 for the Ventura Land Trust.
Recognized as the #1 Individual Agent at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties in Ventura for 2023—2025, Toni takes her clients, their homes, and their decisions seriously — while keeping the experience collaborative, thoughtful, and truly human.
ToniGuy22@yahoo.com toniguyrealestate.com DRE 01491191
Five Year Legend
Top Individual Agent GCI and Production 2023. 2024 & 2025 - Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties Ventura
Top 1.5% of Real Estate Professionals - Real Trends America
