By C.B. Scott
In this issue of What’s Up? with Real Estate, we profile another waterfront property that is evidence of an improving market on the Eastern Shore.
Solitude Road
St. Michaels, Talbot County
Primary Structure Built: 1968
Sold For: $1,215,000
Original List Price: $1,489,000
Last Sold/Price: $1,300,000 (2005)
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 4
Living Space: 3,150
Lot Size: 2.19 acres
The beautifully landscaped, two-story, five-bedroom home on Solitude Road sat on the market for a little over a year before it found new owners. While that’s over twice as long as the average amount of days on the market for Eastern Shore properties in general, it’s still a positive indication of renewed interest in the market. According to buyer’s agent Jim Corson of Benson & Mangold, this sale is another sign of overall improvement in the local real estate market. “We have seen activity levels across all price ranges steadily increase in recent months,” he explained. “We have great momentum going into the fall.”
Originally from Virginia, the buyers were drawn to the property’s location, as much as the serene water views of Solitude Creek. This waterfront home is the best of both worlds: a secluded retreat, but just minutes from two of the nation’s top small towns. “Solitude Creek provides such a beautiful vista to not only enjoy the view but also gives easy access to all the options and activities our waterways provide,” Corson said. “The size of the property and size of the house were perfect for them and their family.”
Solitude Road is part of the Newcomb community, just four miles southeast of the center of St. Michaels, and eight miles from Easton. St. Michaels’ most recent small town accolade is its seventh place ranking on USA Today's 2015 reader-voted “Best Coastal Small Towns” list. Easton was ranked eighth in livability.com’s 2015 “Best Small Towns in America” list. “The home is within biking distance of St. Michaels and a short drive to Easton,” he continued. “The new owners have access to the amazing shopping, dining, and events that both towns offer.”
The home is situated on narrow, 2.19-acre lot on a peninsula. It was originally built in1968, and has been well-maintained and updated throughout. The property is surrounded by mature trees on three sides. The circular gravel driveway and mature crepe myrtles set a relaxing tone at the home’s entrance. Inside, a large, welcoming 28x17-foot family room with a wood burning fireplace opens to the kitchen. In fact, much of the main floor is open, designed to make the most of the serene water views from almost every corner. The kitchen and dining room are combined, and lead to a large sunroom through French doors. The country kitchen features ample granite counter space, two sinks, and a gas fireplace. Hardwood and tile flooring complement the clean, contemporary design.
The 19x18-foot master suite opens to the deck and water views via sliding glass doors with vaulted ceilings. The suite includes two walk-in closets, and the master bath has tile floors, a soaking tub, and generous double vanities. Three additional bedrooms are located in the main house, as well as the fifth bedroom, which has bamboo flooring and is an expansive, private guest suite located above the three-bay garage with a separate entrance.
Outside, a pergola filters sunlight along the deck. Low profile benches provide comfortable seating without obstructing the water views or those of the pool and hot tub. The sunroom opens to the pool as well, making indoor/outdoor entertaining a eeze. Along the 200 feet of water frontage, there’s something for everyone. A new Bailey dock includes two lifts. A separate boat ramp provides additional water access. Finally, the water’s edge includes a playhouse with matching siding, complete with heating and air conditioning and built-in bunk beds.
With the property move-in ready inside and out, the new owners are ready to enjoy their new home. They have no immediate plans for changes to the home.
Sources: Cornelia C. Heckenbach, (listing agent), Associate Broker, Lacaze Meredith Real Estate, 410-310-1229, corneliac@stmichaelsmdwaterfront.com. Jim Corson (buyer's agent), Benson & Mangold Real Estate, 410-310-6275, jcorson12@mac.com.