July 3, 2008

To Thea, with Love: Three Capitol Hill Area Tudors

Original Tudor England

This post is dedicated to my favorite aunt, Thea Nikki. (Thea is the Greek word for aunt.) Next Tuesday is Thea’s birthday. It’s a big birthday, so I want to get her something extra special.

Thea’s always loved Tudors. Elegant, earthy Tudors are a common housing stock in the land of her birth, Portland, Oregon. In Laurelhurst Park, one of Portland’s many historic neighborhoods, Tudors live harmoniously among Craftsman Bungalows, Northwest Farmhouses, and Victorian Painted Ladies.

The Tudor Revival house is typified by steeply pitched roofs, stucco exteriors, and heavy timbers. Reminiscent of the original medieval style, the early 20th century interpretation creates a warm, enveloping and sturdy-feeling home.

So Thea, for your birthday I found you three Tudor homes. I’ve been watching these for a while (in honor of you). They all have their good and not-so-good points, but in the end, each would make a wonderful, never-move-again home.

Have a look at each of these beauties–I’ve summarized their pros and cons (as I see them). Pick your favorite!

All of these homes have been on the market for some time (718 20th was recently re-listed), and reduced from their original price. They’re all within a few blocks of each other on the NE edge of Capitol Hill/Montlake/Madison Park.

718 20th Ave E Seattle, WA 98112 Price: $817,000
This is the biggest of the three at 3200 sq/ft (though I’ve an inkling that may include the basement?) It also appears to be the most move-in ready. Meaning it’s also has the biggest price tag (though the price per sq. ft. is the cheapest—because of it’s large size). The kitchen, while functional, does not do justice to the home or the neighborhood—it’s gonna need updating.

1413 25th Ave E Seattle, WA 98112 Price: $614,990
This is a For Sale By Owner. The bones look great, but a thorough inspection to determine needed upgrades is required. Cosmetically, it looks good, but I’m dubious as to the state of the various systems. The price allows for some upgrading. This one is within walking distance to the Arboretum.

2110 E Crescent Dr Seattle, WA 98112 Price: $625,000
This one is listed as a fixer. Again, the bones look great. It appears to need the most work, but until inspections are done, it’s hard to tell. The price also allows for some upgrading. Location-wise, this is my favorite. (I’ve a strange love for Interlaken Park, which is just around the corner.)

Let me know which one you prefer Thea. I’ll drive by, snap a pic, print it out, and put it in a nice frame. All just for you.


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