Van Ness Auto Repair is the oldest continuously operating auto service station in California. It is available for sale. Photo by Estela Anahi Jaramillo

California’s oldest automotive service shop still in operation is probably well known to many Fresno residents, and now it’s available for sale near the Old Fig Garden neighborhood.

Built in 1926 and located at 2740 N. Van Ness Blvd., Van Ness Auto Repair is on the local Register of Historic Resources. It started as a Standard Oil Service station, with nearly half of the building designed as an ice house. 

The offerings include the real estate at 2740 N. Van Ness Blvd. along with the Van Ness Auto Repair business and another auto repair building at 1506 N. Palm Ave. built in 1980. The bulk sale price is $1.98 million for nearly 3,500 square-feet on half an acre.

 

Listing agent Vasili Sotiropulos with Hyatt Real Estate in Fresno said the land is a remarkable piece of Fresno history. He remembers buying milk from the gas station as a kid. 

“Finding a commercial property tucked into a residential neighborhood like this is extremely rare,” Sotiropulos said.

“Russ” Clements purchased and ran the station for 57 years, followed by his son, Jim, from 1986 until 1991. Regulations for new gas tanks forced the next owner, Garabed Bedirian, to stop selling gas. The station changed hands again with the current owner, James Medina, in 1998. 

“If I was young again, I’d be here forever. I must concentrate on myself as I’m getting older. As far as the shop is concerned, it has always run great. It has been a blessing, it really has. It’s like home,” said Medina.

The business has three working bays at the Van Ness Boulevard location and parking with a conditional use permit allowing up to 17 cars. The location also has an office, stock room, surveillance system, brick-paved parking area and more. 

The Palm Avenue property has two roll-up door bays with enough room for up to three cars per bay. Each bay has sunken pits for ease of working and one hydraulic lift. Palm Avenue also has enough parking for approximately 25-30 additional cars and a bathroom, shower and inventory storage area.

“Given the history and location, Van Ness Auto Repair could continue as a successful business for years to come,” said Sotiropulos.