Some houses are snapped up in days. Others take years. The sellers should be commended for their patience.
An old house sitting on the market isn't obviously aging. A 94-year-old house doesn't look much different than a 95-year old-house. This 1919 Craftsman has been on the market for over a year. Maybe the $1,295,000 price has something to do with it. Maybe the 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and 3,440 square feet of space are too big or too small. Nah. The listing mentions condos. Sounds like someone expects bulldozers to change the property dramatically.
A sweet view is being unappreciated. Sit on the porch and look out across the Sound. Plenty of entertainment for people who enjoy weather, boats, and nature. It's doubtful the view would ever be blocked. The house is separated from the water by Alki Avenue, so storm damage isn't an issue, at least not from the waves. Evidently, the house has plenty of practice weathering Seattle's weather. It can take it.
Hidden in the photos are the little signs of craftsman style. Look at the tile work around the fireplace. The art glass doors over the built-in cabinetry are probably unique. The woodwork around the windows probably didn't come from Home Depot. Use them as inspirations for the remodeling.
They added a second kitchen. Very convenient. Someone added a 2 bedroom apartment in the basement, which, of course, has its own kitchen and bath. Whether you use it as a rental, a well-equipped guest room, a project space, or a backup while the main rooms are being rebuilt, a second place to live is a handy thing.
Come summer, you may think the most precious thing on the property is a parking space in West Seattle. It is the simple things that matter.
· 2116 Alki Ave SW [Redfin]
Written by Tom Trimbath