Tri-Valley Tract Tales

In February 1964, Sunset Homes unveiled their second act in Livermore’s up-and-coming Granada Village —a blossoming patch of suburbia that promised modern living with a twist of charm. This new collection of homes wasn’t just another phase; it was a leap into “a new dimension in suburban sophistication,” as the grand opening ad so boldly declared. And with good reason. From a February 1964 Oakland Tribune ad —s ure, the city’s ‘just over the hill’—if you’ve got a telescope, a clear day, and a vivid imagination. Sunset wasn’t just building homes—they were building desire. With thoughtful layouts, whimsical features, and prices that made first-time buyers blink twice, Sunset Homes quickly became the dominant builder in Livermore. Before long, the neighborhood itself would earn a new name: Sunset West. Location of the Granada Village neighborhood (now Sunset West) in Livermore, California. From Camellia to Catalina Sales took off at the Camellia Drive model complex, nestled near Elain...

If you’ve ever wandered into Pleasanton and stumbled upon Vintage Hills , you’ve probably asked yourself: what’s the story behind this delightful neighborhood? With its sweeping views, architectural quirks, and unmistakable character, Vintage Hills is a hillside treasure full of personality. Location of H. C. Elliott's Vintage Hills neighborhood in Pleasanton, California. A neighborhood with a view Developed by H.C. Elliott between 1970 and 1976, Vintage Hills occupies roughly 139 acres on what was once vineyard-covered terrain. With 472 homes overlooking the Amador Valley, the neighborhood quickly became a coveted spot for buyers looking for charm, views, and something just a little different. From an August 1970 Oakland Tribune ad—a world apart at its grand opening—where the views were sweeping, the model complex was miles away, and the dream was worth the detour. The grand opening & early sales Vintage Hills launched with a grand opening on August 23, 1970, but homes ...

William Lyon Homes encompass a remarkable chapter in San Ramon’s suburban development, featuring three distinctive home series built between 1968 and 1973 across two neighborhoods. Location of The Classics neighborhood in San Ramon, California. California Classics and American Classics homes were built in this neighborhood. Location of the Danridge neighborhood, where Danridge, California Classics, and American Classics homes were built. The story begins with the California Classics series, an award-winning collection of award-winning floor plans. These homes, built by the prolific William Lyon Homes, offered 2 to 4 bedrooms—each distinguished by the signature Terrace Kitchen, with its wall-to-wall gold anodized aluminum windows. From a November 1968 Oakland Tribune ad—the future arrived, and everyone loved it. Originally launched in San Ramon with a model home complex on Randolph Place, California Classics set a high standard for mid-century suburban living. Later, the homes were...