Historic Chico Home With a Unique Second Unit | 1926 Broadway Street
There’s something special about older homes in Chico. They often offer architectural character, established neighborhoods, and a connection to the history of the community. But every once in a while, you come across a property that offers something a little different.
1926 and 1926½ Broadway Street in Chico is one of those properties.
Located in the historic Barber neighborhood, this 1910 property combines the charm of an older Chico home with a unique duplex configuration — including a separate, grandfathered basement unit recognized by the City.
A Piece of Chico History
The property was originally built as a 2-bedroom, 1-bath home* in 1910. Over the years, it evolved into a duplex, with a second 2-bedroom, 1-bath basement unit.
The property’s history is closely connected to the history of the Barber neighborhood itself.
The neighborhood was originally developed around the Diamond Match Company and functioned as a small community. It included homes for employees along with shops, a social hall, a swimming pool, and tennis courts.
That history is part of what gives the neighborhood its distinctive character today. Mature trees, older homes, and historic architecture help create an atmosphere that feels different from newer residential areas of Chico.
Classic Character Inside the Main Home
The main residence retains several features that make older Chico homes so appealing
Inside, you’ll find Douglas fir hardwood floors, high ceilings, and a covered front porch. The home also has a classic floor plan with two bedrooms connected by a Jack-and-Jill bathroom.
These details provide a glimpse into the home's original character while offering a layout that can still work for modern living.
A Separate Basement Living Space
One of the most notable features of 1926 Broadway Street is the lower-level unit.
The basement is a separate 2-bedroom, 1-bath living space with its own kitchen, bedrooms, laundry, and living areas. According to the property tour, this second unit is grandfathered in and recognized by the City.
For a buyer, having an existing second living space can create flexibility in how the property is used.
Depending on a buyer's needs and circumstances, possibilities could include living in the main home while renting the second unit, creating space for extended or intergenerational family members, or using both units as an investment property.
A Backyard With Room to Make It Your Own
The property also includes a good-sized backyard with plenty of possibilities.
Outdoor space could potentially be divided into separate areas for each unit, used for gardening, or designed as an entertaining area. The exact use will depend on the buyer and any applicable property or local requirements.
A Convenient Chico Location
Location is another feature of this property.
The Barber neighborhood is a short distance from downtown Chico and provides access to restaurants, coffee shops, shopping, and Chico State.
For families, the current assigned schools are listed as Chapman Elementary, Chico Junior High, and Chico High, approximately 0.8, 1.5, and 1.6 miles from the property, respectively.
Who Might Consider a Property Like This?
The combination of a historic main home and a separate second unit makes this property particularly flexible.
It could appeal to someone looking for:
* A home with historic Chico character
* A property with a separate living space
* Potential rental or investment use
* Intergenerational or extended-family living
* The ability to live in one unit while renting the other
Of course, buyers should evaluate the property's current legal status, permitted uses, rental considerations, and financial potential based on their individual circumstances and appropriate professional guidance.
Listed at $449,000
1926 Broadway Street is listed at $449,000, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of Chico history with a second living space already in place.
From its connection to the Diamond Match Company and the Barber neighborhood to its original hardwood floors and separate basement unit, this is a property with a story — and several potential ways to make it your own.
If you're interested in taking a closer look at this property or exploring other homes throughout Chico and Butte County, The NorCal Life Real Estate Group is here to help.
Watch the full home tour to see 1926 Broadway Street and its unique second unit for yourself.
