Just Listed by Preferred Properties Key West, that's where I work but this is not my listing,
717 White Street. This mid-century property is a single story single family home that sits on a
3168 sq ft lot (36' X 88') at the corner of White at Newton Street. The existing
1535 sq ft house has two bedrooms, two baths, a Pullmanesque kitchen, additional storage room, a private outdoor courtyard, and enclosed front porch that currently is used as an office.
This property is located across the street from former military housing that date back to the Civil War. The old Army barracks are in the far background with water beyond. As late as the early 2000s the former barracks ground has been used as military housing - updated, of course. I found an old photo of the location taken back in the day when a genuine trolley car ran up and down White Street. The trolley in the photo shows the approximate location of 717 White Street, but the existing house was not in existence when that pic was taken. Still, it is fun to look back at old photos that help us appreciate the history of our neighborhoods and the fact that so many of the old houses and buildings still exist.
The black and white photo above shows 717 White Street as it appeared half a century ago. I took a similar photo which shows the house as it appears in 2014. How this location will appear half a century from now is up to who buys this property because this house is not protected by HARC. That means it can be razed and a new property can be constructed on this location. Before we consider what might be built in the future, let's look at what exists today.
The current house reflects the owner's contemporary design aesthetic on both the inside and outside. The front yard has been replaced by a contemporary garden. The Newton Street side yard has potted plants and minimalist "yard". There is an existing curb cut which means a new owner could re-establish an off street parking spot although parking in this block is normally not a problem.
The historic metal louvers in the original front porch were replaced with glass panels. Today the porch space is used as office space. This location is zoned HMDR (Historic Medium Density Residential) which would permit the owner to maintain an office but no retail sales. Notice the glass panel doors that lead to the private residence.
The owner went through extensive planning and permitting process to obtain approval for the construction of a new two story 1840 sq ft three bedroom, three and one-half bath house with pool and off street parking. Plans and permits will convey with the sale. A new owner could build the house as approved or submit new plans and build the house of the new owner's dreams. A new house could use current building materials such as impact glass windows and doors and Hardiboard siding. Since this property is in the X Zone, flood insurance will not be required.
CLICK HERE to view all photos I took of this intriguing property.
CLICK HERE to view the Key West mls datasheet on 717 White Street which is offered for sale at
$695,000. After you have looked at the pics, please call me,
Gary Thomas,
305-766-2642 to set up a private showing. I am a buyers agent and a full time Realtor at Preferred Properties Key West. Let me help you find your place in Paradise.
