Old City Neighborhood Overview
Old City, often referred to as Utica's "Cobblestone District," is the historic heart of the city, nestled along the south bank of the Mohawk River and Erie Canal. This compact neighborhood is defined by its 19th-century industrial architecture, cobblestone streets, and its pivotal role in Utica's development as a transportation and manufacturing hub. Its location, just west of the city's downtown core, places it at a crossroads of history and modern revitalization efforts, serving as a tangible link to the era when the Erie Canal fueled the region's growth.
The character of Old City is one of preserved history meeting adaptive reuse. Many of the massive, ornate former mills, factories, and warehouses have been repurposed for new commercial and residential uses, creating a unique urban landscape. The neighborhood's identity is deeply tied to landmarks like the historic Union Station and the Baggs Square area, which is considered one of the oldest settled parts of the city. Today, Old City is a focus for preservationists and developers alike, who see its historic fabric as the foundation for a vibrant, walkable urban community.
Housing & Real Estate
The housing stock in Old City is predominantly comprised of converted industrial lofts and historic brick buildings, offering unique residential spaces with high ceilings, large windows, and original architectural details. There is a limited number of traditional single-family homes, with the real estate market primarily focused on apartments and condominiums within these adaptive reuse projects. This creates a distinct urban living experience that is rare in the broader Utica area.
Price ranges and rental rates are typically higher here than in many other Utica neighborhoods, reflecting the premium for historic character and downtown-adjacent location. The market is heavily weighted toward rentals, catering to young professionals, empty-nesters, and artists. Recent trends show a steady interest in further conversion projects, driven by both private investment and public initiatives aimed at revitalizing the canal district and enhancing streetscapes to make the area more attractive for residential development.
Schools & Education
Old City is served by the Utica City School District. While the neighborhood itself does not contain public schools within its immediate borders, several district schools are located a short drive or bus ride away. Families in the neighborhood typically attend schools in the broader West Utica or Downtown zones. The district offers a range of programs, including magnet and STEM options, though it faces the challenges common to many urban districts.
For higher education, the neighborhood's central location is a significant asset. It is minutes from Mohawk Valley Community College's (MVCC) Utica campus and within a reasonable commute to Utica University and SUNY Polytechnic Institute. This proximity makes Old City a potential residential option for college staff, graduate students, and non-traditional students seeking an urban living environment close to academic resources.
Parks & Recreation
The primary green and recreational space in Old City is the Mohawk River and Erie Canal corridor itself. The Mohawk River Parkway and the Erie Canalway Trail provide scenic paths for walking, running, and biking, offering residents direct access to a major regional trail system. These waterfront areas are central to the neighborhood's recreational identity, with plans for continued enhancement to improve connectivity and amenities.
While large traditional parks are not found within Old City's tight grid, the neighborhood's walkability allows easy access to nearby recreational facilities. The Utica Memorial Auditorium, a multi-purpose arena, is just to the east, hosting sporting events and concerts. The active streetscape, historic exploration, and community events in Baggs Square serve as informal recreational and social outlets, fostering a sense of place rooted in the area's industrial past.
Local Dining & Shopping
Old City has emerged as a destination for dining and nightlife in the Utica area. The neighborhood is home to a growing collection of restaurants, breweries, and cafes housed in its historic buildings. Establishments like the historic FX Matt Brewing Company (Saranac Brewery) anchor the district, offering tours and a taproom. A variety of eateries range from upscale Italian and contemporary American cuisine to cozy pubs and coffee shops, capitalizing on the unique atmosphere of the restored spaces.
For shopping, the focus is on specialty and experiential retail rather than big-box stores. The area features antique shops, boutique fitness studios, and artisan spaces that complement its historic character. For everyday grocery needs, residents typically drive to supermarkets in adjacent neighborhoods. The commercial vibe is one of local entrepreneurship, with businesses that draw patrons from across the region seeking a distinct urban experience.
Who Lives Here
The population of Old City is a mix of urban pioneers, young professionals, empty-nesters, and artists drawn to its historic authenticity and architectural character. Residents typically value a walkable, less conventional lifestyle and have an appreciation for preservation and adaptive reuse. The community vibe is emerging and somewhat niche, attracting those who want to live in a piece of Utica's history while being close to downtown amenities and the canal trail system.
This is not a neighborhood dominated by families with school-aged children, given the housing stock and school logistics. Instead, it appeals to singles, couples, and creatives seeking a sense of place distinct from suburban settings. The demographic tends to be educated and often employed in downtown offices, healthcare, education, or the arts. Community cohesion is fostered through neighborhood associations focused on preservation and through patronage of the local businesses that define the district's revitalized streets.
Top Real Estate Agents in Old City, Utica
25 agents met the full merit gate for Old City, Utica, MI, selected from over 55,000 licensed Michigan professionals.
Contact
Phone: (510) 205-4369
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.thegundermangroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/David%20Gunderman
Why selected: Selected for his extensive community leadership, including board roles with East Bay School for Boys and the San Francisco Zen Center. He further demonstrates elite performance and national ranking recognition.
Community & Leadership
Board of Trustees member at East Bay School for Boys[6]
member at San Francisco Zen Center[6]
supporter at Impact Justice[6]
supporter at Berkeley Repertory Theater[6]
supporter at Cal Performances[6]
supporter at Alameda Library Foundation[6]
supporter at ACLU[6]
supporter at Greenpeace[6]
supporter at Planned Parenthood[6]
supporter at Sierra Club[6]
supporter at Family House[6]
activist at CARE organization[6]
activist at ACT UP[6]
supporter at Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS[6]
supporter at San Francisco AIDS Foundation[6]
Notable Achievements
Wall Street Journal / REAL Trends Top 100
25+ years experience
REAL Trends The Thousand - 2019
REAL Trends The Thousand - 2013
REAL Trends 'The Thousand' National Ranking
Third Highest Grossing Team Recognition
REAL Trends / The Thousand Recognition
The Leading 100 Bay Area Real Estate Professionals
REAL Trends / The Thousand
Third Highest Grossing Team
25+ Years of Service
Co-founder of third highest grossing team nationally
Over 3 billion in sales
500+ five-star reviews
272 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Commercial Properties, Rentals, luxury properties, investment opportunities, complex market transactions, East Bay real estate, luxury homes, waterfront properties, estate sales, buyer representation, seller representation, historic homes, investment properties, estate properties, architectural homes, East Bay market specialist, historic properties, architectural estates, luxury real estate, high-end residential, team-based service, collaborative approach[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (415) 335-8616
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.compass.com/agents/andrew-pitarre/?referrer=listing_page
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Andrew%20Pitarre
Why selected: Selected for his community leadership as a real estate expert contributor for the Rockridge community newsletter. He combines this with a and of expertise.
Community & Leadership
real estate expert contributor at Rockridge community newsletter[6]
Notable Achievements
Two Decades of Experience
RealTrends Verified Top Team by Volume
23+ Years Real Estate Experience
5-Star Rating Across 125 Reviews
Five-Star Rating
RealTrends Verified Top Real Estate Team
22 years of real estate experience
5-star rating with 125 reviews
Business Degree with Land Economics Emphasis
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, Property Management, Investment Properties, New Construction, residential real estate, construction knowledge, land economics, property development insight, construction, property development, construction expertise, property solutions, market analysis[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (415) 310-0066
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.anthonyecassel.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Anthony%20Cassel
Why selected: Selected for his founding role in the charitable initiative Cassel & Brown Cares, demonstrating deep community commitment. This leadership is supported by over 800 families served, $1 billion+ in sales, and.
Community & Leadership
founder at Cassel & Brown Cares[6]
Notable Achievements
22+ years experience
Over $1 billion in real estate sales
800+ families served
$1B+ in Sales Volume
Top 1% Nationally
California Association of REALTORS Champions of Home Award
90% referral-based business
92 five-star reviews
22+ Years Real Estate Experience
5-Star Client Rating
90% Referral Business
Total Sales Volume
Families Served
#1 Company Wide 2016
Superior Market Performance
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, New Construction, luxury real estate, family transitions, first-time buyers, sellers, investment properties, luxury residential markets, family real estate decisions, property staging, marketing, luxury homes, family relocations, multigenerational clients, luxury properties, investment acquisitions, residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, family moves, multi-generational transactions[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 472-3074
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.shellyflynn.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ShellyFlynn
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership over 20+ years, combined with a. Her specialized finance expertise provides exceptional client value in complex transactions.
Notable Achievements
84 Five-Star Reviews
20+ Years Real Estate Experience
5-Star Client Rating
21 Years of Real Estate Experience
Top Producer Recognition
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Foreclosure, Luxury Homes, New Construction, financing expertise, mortgage loan origination, buyer representation, seller representation, transaction management, complex transactions, Financing expertise, Mortgage loan origination, Complex transactions, Market analysis, Problem-solving[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 757-4787
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.annefestegroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Anne%20Feste
Why selected: Selected for her exceptional quantifiable performance, ranking in the for local sales volume with over $300 million sold. She further distinguishes herself with a Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designation and a.
Notable Achievements
20+ Years Real Estate Experience
CRS (Certified Residential Specialist)
Top 1% Agent Locally for Sales Volume
Top 1% locally for sale volume
$300 million in properties sold
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management, East Bay real estate, residential sales, buyer representation, seller representation[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 768-8228
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.hansandkristin.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/hans571
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. He combines an in Oakland's luxury market with strong performance metrics and specialized KW Luxury credentials.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Luxury Homes[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (415) 216-5653
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.moderngreenhomes.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/ary1
Why selected: Selected for his advocacy in environmental stewardship initiatives and community leadership. He combines of industry experience with s.
Community & Leadership
advocate at Environmental stewardship initiatives[6]
Notable Achievements
64 five-star reviews
UC Berkeley Graduate
Multi-Disciplinary Background
5-Star Review Rating
5-Star Rating
15 Years Real Estate Experience
Verified Specialties
Foreclosure, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Luxury Homes, New Construction, Mid-Century Modern, Eichler properties, Eco-friendly properties, Green building practices, Sustainable real estate, Energy-efficient homes, Eichler homes, Eco-Friendly properties, Green building, Modern homes, Sustainable properties, Modern architecture, Investment properties, Contemporary homes, Green homes[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 331-5153
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.zumborealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Giuseppe%20Zumbo
Why selected: Selected for his extensive community leadership and board positions, which are paramount in our ranking. He combines this with a and deep expertise in complex Bay Area multi-family sales.
Verified Specialties
Commercial Properties, Property Management, Investment Properties[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 472-4770
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.gregnovakrealtor.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Greg%20Novak%20Realtor
Why selected: Selected for their active community leadership and charitable work. This is combined with a from over and deep expertise as a Realtor-Investor.
Verified Specialties
Real Estate Investor, Remodeling[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 928-9418
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://sellrelentless.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Ranjitksingh
Why selected: Selected for his active support of community charitable initiatives and volunteer efforts, which is our highest-ranking criterion. He also maintains a and has earned professional media features.
Community & Leadership
supporter at Community charitable initiatives[6]
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
Five Years Active Experience
Perfect Client Rating
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Media Recognition
Verified Specialties
residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, Bay Area market expertise, client advocacy, market analysis, personalized service, homebuyers, sellers, Bay Area market, client service, buying, selling, market expertise, Real estate transactions, Client service, Market knowledge[4]
Cities Served
Hercules
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 374-9698
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.lovebayagent.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Hakeem%20Love
Why selected: Selected for his deep community ties and leadership as a relocation specialist bridging Hawaii and California. He combines over a decade of experience with strong performance metrics and unique expertise as an investor advising on vacation and investment properties.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties[4]
Cities Served
Honolulu
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 226-8788
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.ezfletcher.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Bill%20and%20Eli
Why selected: Selected for his active community involvement through charitable donations and volunteer work with local organizations. He is and a remarkable 90% repeat/referral business rate from nearly two decades of experience.
Community & Leadership
Donor and volunteer at Local community organizations[6]
Notable Achievements
90% Repeat and Referral Business
Verified Specialties
Escrow, Staging, repeat and referral business, client satisfaction, legal expertise in real estate, repeat business, referral business[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 396-1377
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://annietegner.com
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AnnieTegner
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated volunteer role as a Wish Grantor with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, demonstrating exceptional community commitment. She is further distinguished by and of market expertise.
Community & Leadership
Wish Grantor at Make-A-Wish Foundation[6]
Notable Achievements
40 Five-Star Reviews
15+ years of real estate experience
Multi-generational real estate family
Verified Specialties
Relocation, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Rentals, residential real estate, buyer representation, seller representation, property management, rental properties, investment properties, negotiation[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 761-9536
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.soodo.us/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Soodo%20Real%20Estate
Why selected: Selected for his significant community leadership roles and charitable work. He combines this with a of quantifiable success, doubling his business yearly in the Bay Area's competitive market.
Verified Specialties
Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 774-9490
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.fastexpert.com/agents/anna-oliver-66012/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AnnaeXp
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community leadership as a REALTIST with the Oakland NAREB chapter, promoting housing equality. She combines with exceptional client feedback, and $10M in annual sales.
Community & Leadership
member at Associated Real Property Brokers (ARPB)[6]
REALTIST at Oakland Chapter of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB)[6]
Notable Achievements
20 years of experience
36 five-star reviews
Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE)
Verified Specialties
Commercial Properties, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Senior Communities, residential real estate, commercial properties, religious facilities, probate sales, investors, first-time buyers, seniors, buyers, sellers, mobile homes, Buyers, Sellers, Commercial Property, Mobile Homes, Residential Property, Probate Sales, Investors, First-time Buyers, Seniors Downsizing, commercial/religious facilities, downsizing[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 590-0963
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.alexmichas.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Alex%20Michas
Why selected: Selected for his deep community involvement and leadership roles, Alex Michas also demonstrates exceptional performance and record-breaking sales like the $23M 26 Sea View transaction.
Community & Leadership
Board Member at Piedmont/Oakland/Berkeley Association of Realtors[6]
Committee Chair at Local Realtors' Community Investment Committee[6]
Mentor at Compass Agent Development Program[6]
Supporter/Volunteer at Local Equestrian or Land Conservation Non-Profit[6]
Notable Achievements
Highest Priced Residential Sale Record
$33.5 Million Luxury Estate Sale
90% Repeat and Referral Client Base
Over $50 Million in Renovations for Sellers
Verified Specialties
Investment Properties, luxury estates, high-value transactions, buyer representation, seller representation, market analysis, renovation consulting, investment properties[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 660-1452
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Agent%20Ochoa
Why selected: Selected for his dedicated community support and leadership in strengthening neighborhoods. He combines this with a from and over six years of expert market guidance.
Community & Leadership
Committee Member at Bay East Association of Realtors[6]
Volunteer at Local Housing Non-Profit[6]
Mentor at eXp Realty[6]
Member at Local Chamber of Commerce[6]
Notable Achievements
5-Star Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, First Time Homebuyers, buyer representation, seller representation, market analysis, client education, buyers, sellers, property valuation[4]
Cities Served
San Ramon
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 459-7673
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.compass.com/agents/anna-bahnson/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/annabahnson
Why selected: Selected for her deep community involvement and leadership roles, and a unique, client-protective expertise drawn from her construction industry background.
Notable Achievements
33 Five-Star Reviews
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Investment Properties, Rentals, New Construction, construction expertise, renovation potential, property evaluation, investment opportunities, construction experience, property potential assessment, client education, buyer representation, seller representation[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 209-7471
Email: [email protected]
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/buyandsellwithdinh
Why selected: Selected for, demonstrating exceptional service and a strong transaction record. His client-focused expertise builds a reputation for professional excellence.
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-Star Rating
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Property Management[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (415) 535-2996
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.eastbakergroup.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/glenniekramerbaker
Why selected: Selected for her leadership of the East Baker Group and deep community involvement. She combines over a decade of experience with strong market knowledge and a proven commitment to her clients.
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Staging[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 693-7931
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.anthonyriggins.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/Anthony%20Riggins
Why selected: Selected for his active leadership and mentorship within the real estate professional community. He is a top national producer with over $750M in sales, and consistent #1 East Bay team ranking.
Community & Leadership
mentor at Real Estate Industry[6]
Notable Achievements
Wall Street Journal Top 250 Agents Nationally
$750 Million in Career Sales
Sotheby's International Realty Top Producer
#1 East Bay Team Recognition
Verified Specialties
Relocation, luxury properties, comprehensive client services, staging and photography, concierge service, world class marketing[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (415) 385-0220
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://abioproperties.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/andrea4334
Why selected: Selected for her dedicated community involvement and leadership roles. She is further distinguished by her and over a decade of experience providing thorough client guidance.
Notable Achievements
Over 10 Years Experience
Five-Star Client Rating
Verified Specialties
Commercial Properties, Investment Properties, investment properties, buyers, sellers, Bay Area market expertise, client advocacy, market education[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 332-5747
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://vanguardproperties.com/agents/ann-lovi
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AnnLovi
Why selected: Selected for dedicated community service and professional excellence, demonstrated through performance, ranking in the top 1.5% of realtors nationally with over $225M in career sales and a. Her deep market expertise, honed over nearly two decades, consistently delivers outstanding client results.
Notable Achievements
Santa Clara University Graduate
Top 1.5% of Residential Realtors Nationally
Career Sales Over $225 Million
Verified Specialties
Relocation, residential real estate, commercial real estate background, luxury properties, client referrals, home design and renovation consulting, commercial real estate, home design, renovation consultation, client service[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 886-2662
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.annamayrealestate.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AnnaMayREALTOR
Why selected: Selected for her history-making community leadership as a former elected official and long-time Rotary International service. She combines this with a and over two decades of market expertise.
Community & Leadership
long-time member at Rotary International[6]
Notable Achievements
Perfect 5-star rating
History-making former elected official
Verified Specialties
Relocation, Commercial Properties, First Time Homebuyers, Investment Properties, Military/Veterans, Luxury Homes, New Construction, Lot/Land[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).
Contact
Phone: (510) 334-6952
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.cb-re.com/
Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/AaronBrownEastBay
Why selected: Selected for his deep community roots and leadership as a Founding Partner of a respected local brokerage. He combines this with a and over 400 successful transactions.
Community & Leadership
<UNKNOWN> at <UNKNOWN>[6]
Notable Achievements
Founding Partner of Cassel & Brown Real Estate
Over 400 Transactions Completed
Team Achievement: $1B+ in Sales
Team Achievement: 800+ Families Served
5-Star Rating with 21 Reviews
Verified Specialties
Property Management, luxury properties, first-time buyers, sellers, multi-generational clients, property staging, digital marketing[4]
Cities Served
Oakland
All listed agents meet the same qualification standard (see Merit Criteria above).