409 William Street - Old Town - Key West

Formerly the William Lowe House - 409 Wiliam Street Old Town - Key West

The historic glass shimmers and reflects the early morning sun

I first wrote about 409 William Street in October 2007 when it was then just listed at $2,999,000. This is how I described the property then:

The Gideon Lowe House at 409 William Street is located within Key West’s National Register of Historic Places in the heart of Old Town. This 2 ½ story historic landmark was originally built by the youngest son of one of the island’s earliest Bahamian settlers (c.1845) and expanded to its current grandeur (c.1866). Today’s completed renovation was overseen by a New York architectural firm, and now is offered as a home of superior design, detail, construction, and history. The lushly landscaped yard haven is perfect for entertaining with an expansive deck finished in exotic Brazilian wood that overlooks the tiled pool. The front second story balcony provides that all important sunset view. The house has two master suites with walk-in closets plus two additional bedrooms. This restored gem sits on a sleepy and palm shaded street within walking distance to the Historic Key West Seaport and it's only three blocks from Duval. And it has 2 off street parking spaces.

The house has been a guest house for the past 20 years or so. I watched the restoration from the street and street and think this house has just about all of the bells and whistles an upper end buyer could desire.

The house did not sell and it has not been lived in. Everything has been consistently and carefully maintained. It was just listed at the new asking price of $1,795,000. CLICK HERE to view the current mls data sheet and photos. This, dear Readers, is a buying opportunity for someone to buy a truly historic home at a great price.

I walked over to the house this morning to take some pics. I just love this street with all of the old houses on either side. I have added some old time photos to contrast how some houses on this block looked half a century ago with how they look today. That's not that long ago. (I had just graduated from high school. The houses look pretty much the same. I have added several pounds and my hair turned gray. These houses will still be here in a hundred years. I won't.)

The local fresh fish market is located on the corner at Elizabeth and Eaton Streets. The Historic Key West Seaport is two blocks further to the north. Sometimes when I walk the streets of Old Town like I did this morning, I fall in love with this place all over again. Really!

Bahamian House across from 409 William Street in 2010

The same house in 1965

The same house in 1965 but viewed from the corner of Eaton Street looking southwest

405 William Street in 2010

405 William Street in 1965

Another Bahamian house on William Street in 2010

The same Bahamian house as seen in 1965

If you are looking for a perfect place in Key West, please call me, Gary Thomas, 305-766-2642. I am a full time Realtor at Preferred Properties Coastal Realty, Inc.