an extraordinary home
One spring Friday, Fred the real estate agent shared a fresh listing to a beautiful home with 35 magnificent photos. It was a must-see home for the quality of preserved characteristics alone.
The curb appeal gave shivers starting from the lamp post lighting the walkway to the front porch with original balusters, double arched doors and a front bay window, accompanied by a historic district plaque.
If the front view was not enough charm, the entry showcased a massive chandelier, working fireplace and mantle, the bay window surrounded by bookshelves, and wood detailed stairs.
One could only imagine the rich textures, colors and furnishings of a former era lit by gas, warmed by fire.
Impressively, this home had been well cared for and loved for the last 145 years, maintaining original features and floors. It boasts 9 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, a porch, and a full third floor ceiling thanks to the mansard roof design.
The entire yard was blooming with splendid purple crocuses. The backyard looked picture perfect for dogs and children to run around, with a fenced off garden area and a driveway towards the affectionally called, former “carriage house”
After touring the home on Friday, a plan was devised to perfectly shmooze with the proper individuals at the open house on Sunday, almost towards the end of the event to gauge interest and offers insights.
There were couples, pregnant ladies, multigenerational families, neighbors, agents and friends visiting on Sunday totaling over 40 parties.
A local member of the historic preservation committee visited while we conversed with the sellers agents. Knowing we attended the meetings, she and Fred talked up our involvement in the community and appreciation for old homes.
Budgets were made and remade, pros and cons were listed. Revisions completed until coming to an agreement on an appropriate, competitive and affordable offer was decided upon.
Despite instructions not to write a letter, a very passionate one was written highlighting the importance of preservation, legacy building, and supporting local community.
After changing our minds yet a few times over dinner, we submitted the offer confident it was the best we could manage while appropriate for the home. We were officially in the running!From here the story begins…