One-of-a-Kind Mills Act Property in the Heart of SLO 

Step into timeless charm and modern luxury with this unique Queen Anne cottage featuring three separate dwellings on iconic Mill Street. Built in 1899 by Teresa True, a pioneering seamstress and single mother, this Mills Act-certified home not only preserves a piece of San Luis Obispo history, but also offers significant property tax savings on this R-2 lot.

Beautifully revitalized from foundation to finish, the property seamlessly blends historic character with modern ease—featuring newer plumbing, electrical, and appliances alongside rebuilt sash windows, redwood shiplap, oak plank floors, and drought-tolerant landscaping.

The main home includes a restored 1-bedroom residence connected to a private-entry studio apartment—ideal for guests, family, or rental income. Soaring ceilings accent the elegant living room with bay window and a sunlit dining room. The charming kitchen is chef-functional, and the bathroom showcases designer tile and a restored clawfoot tub—a timeless detail inviting you to soak in history and comfort.

The original carriage house is now a magical retreat, complete with open beams, pine plank floors, loft bed, Big Sur-inspired design, a half bath, and outdoor shower. Perfect as a home office, guest house, or hideaway.

Unwind on the inviting front porch, perfect for lingering over coffee or evening cocktails. Step into the backyard to find your own private garden oasis, alive with fruit trees, vibrant flowers, and the shade of majestic redwoods. Cozy nooks invite you to gather with friends, host unforgettable evenings, or retreat in solitude.

For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, a charming glamping tent on a raised platform offers the perfect spot for yoga, reading, or welcoming overnight guests in comfort and style. A short jaunt to downtown, this home offers the best of both worlds: city access and a tranquil retreat.

Additional highlights include a standing attic for storage with expansion potential; a rebuilt shed that blends seamlessly into the property’s charm; owned solar for energy efficiency; and the original hitching post & widow’s walk restored for historic integrity. Perched on a hill in a low fire and flood risk zone with clean air and minimal sea level rise exposure, this property offers rare peace of mind—just 10 minutes from the coast.

More than a home, it’s an irreplaceable piece of San Luis Obispo history, reimagined for tranquil living. Homes like this are rarely available—don’t miss your chance to make it yours.

Distinctive Details: 

1. Three Separate Dwellings on One Property
   The Queen Anne cottage includes a main 1-bedroom home, an attached private-entry studio apartment, and a fully reimagined carriage house, offering flexibility for multi-generational living or rental income.
2. Mills Act-Certified for Property Tax Savings
   This historic home is officially Mills Act-certified, providing significant tax benefits while preserving its architectural integrity.
3. Originally Built by a Pioneering Seamstress in 1899
   Built by Teresa True, a single mother and seamstress, the home carries a rich personal history deeply rooted in San Luis Obispo’s past.
4. Lovingly Rebuilt from the Ground Up with Heritage Details
   Restorations include rebuilt sash windows, redwood shiplap siding, and oak plank flooring, honoring original craftsmanship while enhancing durability and comfort.
5. Designer Bathroom with Restored Clawfoot Tub
   The main bathroom is a standout, featuring period-specific designer tile and a beautifully restored original clawfoot tub.
6. Magical Carriage House with Loft and Outdoor Shower
   The original carriage house has been transformed into a retreat with exposed beams, pine plank floors, a loft bed, a Big Sur-inspired interior, and an outdoor shower.
7. Charming Backyard Yurt for Guest Stays or Creative Retreats
   Set on a wood platform in the garden, the yurt adds a whimsical, functional space for guests, reading, or meditative escapes.
8. Environmental and Historic Enhancements
   Features include owned solar panels, drought-tolerant landscaping, and restored historic elements like a widow’s walk and original hitching post.