Agent Andy's House of the Week: 536 SE 17th Ave
Historic 5 Bed/4 Bath Buckman Home With a Recent Price Drop
In this series, Urban Nest's very own Agent Andy Barlow shares his favorite Portland home of the week. See stunning properties from all across town and pick up valuable insight from one of Portland's most discerning real estate professionals.
This week’s pick showcases what is truly a rare opportunity to own a part of history in Portland. Touring this home was like a magical journey back in time, and I have to say that it was my most memorable (and favorite) home tour yet…
Situated in Buckman, one of the oldest and most established east side neighborhoods, this nearly 5,000 square foot Old-Portland Foursquare offers 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 4 floors, and so much history that I could probably write an entire novel about it (for real though). As I walked up the front steps to the large covered front porch, I was already in awe of the property, and couldn't wait to get inside.
I met the homeowner, Amy, at the front door and was warmly welcomed in. I was immediately taken aback by how grand the house was. It felt as though I just entered some sort of architectural historical exhibit. The woodwork, the pocket doors, the windows, the trim, EVERYTHING restored to keep the history of the home alive (Amy’s husband is an architect - so they knew what they were doing).
The first part of my tour was looking through an old photo album full of photos from the remodel Amy’s family did 20 years ago. When they bought the place it was covered in red carpet, mirrored walls, drop ceilings, and had been stripped of many of its original details. With their careful work, they were able to bring the place back to its glory (matching original woodwork when they found it, adding back molding and rails where they couldn’t, etc). Prior to Amy moving in, the place was a boy’s home for teenagers who had been kicked out by their families. And, before that, there was a candy factory in the basement.
We walked through the entire home, each room more impressive than the last. The amount of detail throughout and the charm and character of the home is impressive. There is also some major potential here - update and add some external stairs to the top floor and you could have a rentable apartment (already ready with a kitchen and bathroom). Or do the same in the basement, where there is already an external entrance. With almost 5,000 square feet the possibilities are endless!
My favorite part? Besides the delicious fresh-baked zucchini bread Amy gave me before I left, I’d have to say I really loved the “tub room.” That room was like a treehouse vacation and I am ready to check in.
If you want to tour this place yourself, give me a call! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own such a cool piece of history. And, they just dropped the price by $80,000 so get it quick!
Take a look at the full listing here.
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Images courtesy of RMLS and Karoline Ashley