331-339 W Church Ave offers investors a rare repositioning opportunity in Ridgecrest’s rising rental market, just minutes from NAWS China Lake and it's ongoing expansion. Currently operating as a motel, the ±250 sq ft units have a direct pathway to being refreshed into modern micro-studios featuring a private bathroom, closet, kitchenette, and bed—aligning with the national demand for minimalist, affordable living. Through light, cost-effective upgrades such as compact kitchenettes with a cooktop, under-counter fridge, microwave, and clean finishes, investors can transform the existing layout into a sustainable multifamily community.
The refreshed units are ideally suited to multiple tenant groups, including contractors and temporary workers stationed at NAWS China Lake, single tenants and younger renters seeking affordable independence, and seniors or Social Security recipients looking for cost-effective, all-inclusive housing. Investor upside includes higher achievable rents compared to non-kitchen units, an expanded tenant pool spanning both workforce and fixed-income demographics, and flexible leasing structures that support both long-term stays and standard year leases. In addition, garage conversion potential presents another avenue for value-add opportunity. Four units already feature full kitchens and require no upgrades, providing immediate functionality.
The property is zoned R-4 multifamily, and the City has confirmed in writing that motel-to-residential conversion is a permitted use. This zoning support significantly de-risks the repositioning strategy, ensuring investors have a clear pathway to execute the business plan. It is even situated between two recently completed multi-family projects in the area, demonstrating the rapid changes occurring in the area since the city's re-zoning towards residential usage.