615 Southard St. - Old Town - Key West

The very first time I came to Key West I decided I would move here someday. I actually thought of looking at properties on that first trip, but I decided that would be too impetuous. So I booked another trip and came back six months later to start to look at properties. I talk to potential buyers and get emails from others who tell me similar stories of coming to Key West, falling in love with this simple little town, and dreaming of moving here some day. Many of these people hope to find a house or condo that they occasionally can rent to help pay the acquisition cost of the property. The recently listed home at 615 Southard Street has a successful history as a vacation rental. If you are a buyer that has been dreaming about buying a place here, perhaps this home may be the answer to your little dream. 

The listing Realtor describes 615 Southard Street this way:

"Come and see this perfect Key West Conch House today! With two bedrooms, two baths and a private swimming pool in this location, 615 Southard Street will certainly sell quickly. A few years back the property underwent a thorough and quality renovation. The current owners purchased the property in 2001. Features include custom woodcarvings, restored hardwood floors, high ceilings, updated baths and kitchen, central air and heat pump for pool. Property is being sold turnkey (fully furnished) with lovely tropical furniture and accessories. The location is in the heart of Old Town, and only 1.5 blocks to Duval Street and a leisurely stroll to the Historic Seaport. This updated Key West Old Town classic will sell quickly. Don't miss the boat."

615 Southard Street Key West - 1965

615 Southard Street Key West - 2014

I looked in the historic Sanborn Fire Maps and learned that 615 Southard Street first appeared in the 1892 edition. The house was renovated in 2000 for which it received a ceramic star for excellence in renovation. It has been occasionally rented as a vacation rental since then. A new addition was placed at the back of the original house where the kitchen and dining area is now located. A pool was added was well.

The formal living area is located at the front of the house. This former cigar makers cottage is rich with Dade County Pine walls throughout the property. Notice the extra tall ceilings and large baseboards that give the rooms a sense of strength and permanence.  Each room is painted a bit differently, but all rooms blend harmoniously. Since this home is offered furnished, it's nice to note that the house just feels "like home". 

The broad hallway on the left leads to the two bedrooms. The first bedroom has an en-suite bath. The second bedroom has an entry door into a second bath which also has a door that enters from the hallway. This second bath is used as a guest bath as well.

The kitchen, dining area, and family room are located at the rear of the house. This open space bounds with energy. The place is just so inviting. You immediately want to sit down and have coffee or a cocktail. Once you near the kitchen the back addition opens into view. You see the pool, of course, but more importantly you see all sorts of visual stimuli that immediately lets you know this is a home.  Yes there is whimsy everywhere. There's a comfy sofa and chair, art, and bric-a-brac galore. The house looks both lived in but not out-lived its presence. Who wouldn't love to spend a month here?

The rear doors open out to the kidney shaped pool and rear garden where there is abundant space to get a famous Key West tan (on a sunny day).  I took more photos on a semi-cloudy day which you can see if you CLICK HERE.

If you have been dreaming about buying a perfect place in Key West, a place that you might perhaps rent as a monthly vacation rental to help offset the cost of home ownership, you really ought to consider 615 Southard Street.  It has a successful rental history.  All furnishings and personalty convey with closing as do the advance rental reservations. The asking price is $998,000. Please call me, Gary Thomas, 305-766-2642 to schedule a private showing of this special Key West home.  I am a buyers agent and a full time Realtor at Preferred Properties Key West. This home may be the home of your dreams.