Character you can't build

I'm excited to introduce this week's home, a charming, updated "older" home in Hyde Park. 

Let me clarify what I mean when I talk about older homes; I am referring to homes built prior to 1970. This particular home was built in 1927.  It has had some additions since then, but the current home owners have lovingly renewed many of the original finishes and features. As we take a look at it, let's talk about the reasons an "older" home might be right for you...

Do you love to do yard work?  Are you a project person?  If not, mature landscaping is a very attractive feature when purchasing an established home.  This home has some gorgeous greenery and lots of spaces to get out and enjoy it.  While I have not checked the current prices for installing a sprinkler system, curbing, and planting hydro-seed or sod, I can tell you that it is a time consuming and costly venture.  Not to mention the time it takes to plant trees and wait for the time when they are big enough to finally provide shade...If you still happen to live in that house when the trees are grown.  Save time and money by purchasing a home with all of that done for you...and bring on the lemonade!

Do you love hardwood floors but balk at the $$$ per square foot to install it?  While not all older homes have hardwood, many do.  No need to get out the ball and chain...it most likely already has that broken in look that is so popular right now (and yes there are people who install hardwood and then proceed to have it distressed).   

Sorry, my picture of the floor doesn't give it justice.  No worries though, I will be hosting an open house at this home on Saturday August 23rd from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. so you can come and take a look at them in person.:)

There are some features of "older" homes that are hard to replicate even if you want to spend the money to try do so.  We like to call it character though I'm not sure what the exact definition of that word would be.  Just know there are things you have a hard time getting without the passing of large amounts of time. 

 Wood trimmed doors and windows, solid core doors, decorative door knobs, built in shelves, and transom windows are some of the unique features of this home.  Again each of these are considered upgrades in new construction.  If you don't have a huge budget but want to have the upgrades, buying an established home like this one might be right for you.

Beautiful windows with solid wood casing inside and storm windows to insulate outside.

Built in bookcase or display case in the sitting room.

Unique craftsman style door hardware.

Transom windows.  

Some might find in quirky but I like the bead board wall and ceiling of the enclosed back porch. Behind the door is a unique pantry too!

One of the great things about this home is that it has the feel of an "older" home with the conveniences of a new home including a huge master bedroom, updated kitchen with all the modern amenities, and updated plumbing and electrical work.  When making a choice between new construction and an established home you may want to compare the price per square foot to purchase vs. build.  The numbers might just knock your socks off!

Whether you are shopping for a home right now or not, come on down the path and take a look at this home on Saturday from 10-12 at 64 East 100 South in Hyde Park.  You might just realize the kind of treasure an older home can be.  

It's about how you want to live

This week's home is about lifestyle.  I feel like the right home for you includes finding a home that reflects certain elements of your lifestyle.  Have you ever considered how you live and the things that are important to you and how your home either supports those values or takes away from them?  

For example: if your family is your main focus of life, wouldn't you want a kitchen and/or family room centered home?  Are they the center of the home's layout?  Are they big enough to accommodate everyone in your family?  Are there seating areas that support being all together?

If you are an outdoors kind of person does your home make use of the natural light?  Do you have several areas where the indoors and outdoors meet?  Are there ample opportunities in the home to take a seat and enjoy the outdoor areas?

Today's home is a combination of these two.  It has areas to accommodate family, plenty of bedrooms, a large kitchen/dining area and a large family area.  It also makes use of the surrounding light and outdoor spaces.  Just take a peek...

Gorgeous greenery surround a large three "light" front door.  Welcoming, and cheerful. 

Here's the view from the inside of that door.  Notice how the natural green space draws your attention outward.  

Here are a couple of unique round windows 

that allow natural light to the stairway 

and invite you to look up and out.

The master bedroom has french doors leading to a sweet spot to relax when you are winding down in the evening.  Even if the yard is blanketed in snow, imagine opening the door a bit and enjoying a peaceful moment with this gorgeous view.

A hidden alcove perfect for enjoying the breakfast someone has lovingly made just for you.

Oops!  I should have propped up that pillow...

Check out the clever architecture that allows a frame of sorts for the view of trees and the mountain in the background.

Pick out some big soft pillows to fill this window seat and plop down with a good book.  It's just off the kitchen so it's perfect for taking a break while still keeping an eye on dinner:).

And here is a spot to kick up your feet on a warm afternoon with a cold drink.  Sounds delightful, doesn't it...?

Here is another view of the back of the house so you can really see some of the thoughtful areas the architect included to allow the home owner to really enjoy the outdoors.

There is actually a hot tub tucked away off to the right of the home that I didn't photograph and you can't see the breakfast area from this view either, but you get the idea.

And here is one quick look at the kitchen... a kitchen is vitally important for some of us.  The large windows let in lots and lots of natural light.

This is the first home that I have featured on the blog that is actually available to purchase.  So if this home appeals to you and your lifestyle give me a call, I would be happy to show it to you!  There are some things that are even better in person.

Please feel free to leave comments and/or questions...I would love to hear from you!