The first day I arrived in Key West some 25 years ago was amazed by all of the neat old houses in Old Town. I only ventured to Casa Marina for a party that first trip. And other than driving past New Town, I don't think I really ventured out there until a trip in 1987. New Town did not amaze me.
Back in 1984 many of the houses that look so damned wonderful today looked like a lot of the still "undone" or "non-restored" houses that still exist all over Old Town. There are not just as many of them today. And I have seen enough of the houses that were "renovated" or "remodeled" back in the 1970's and 1980's to safely say they may need a bit of updating now. I'm not calling for the introduction of granite or more stainless steel and certainly not calling for vessel sinks or other fads. Perhaps there were some things added over the years that might make a property look or even function better. Back in 1984 it was the simplicity of design and the sturdy construction that endeared me to the houses of Old Town. Nothing has changed.
The house at 1025 Thompson Lane is a good example of an old house built circa 1891 that has been updated over the years. You walk inside and you either love it or you don't. The rooms are colorful and cozy. I find the place absolutely charming. There is a fake fire in the livingroom that reminds you why you chose to move to Key West. The house is very livable. None of the rooms are really large, but they work. The upstairs is presently divided into a sitting room, a bedroom, and a bath.
There is presently a small second floor deck and spiral staircase (CLICK HERE) that are not historic to the house. I think it should be removed. That would allow the homeowner to utilize the ground area better. I think there is room for pool and still comply with the set back requirements. Any serious buyer will need to verify the ability to add a pool and should not relay what I say.
1025 Thompson Lane has 1341 sq ft of living area and sits on a 1600 sq ft lot. The house has two bedrooms, two baths, a lovely living room and an open kitchen. It is offered for sale at $525,000 or $391 per sq ft. CLICK HERE for more information and to view photos of the interior and exterior.
Thompson Lane is a lot like many of the other slow lanes in Key West: quiet. It runs one block long from Frances Street on the east to Grinnell Street on the west. Finnegan's Wake is located on Grinnell Street and just a few feet past the exit from Thompson Lane. The City of Key West parking structure is located across the street from Finnegan's Wake. And the Historic Key West Seaport is a minute walk further to the north. The house and its location are very quiet but the property is located within easy walking distance to so many things that make Old Town Key West so vibrant and fun.
1025 Thompson Lane is a listing of Preferred Properties Coastal Realty Inc. Please call me, Gary Thomas, 305-766-2642 or email me at kw1101v@aol.com to set up a showing.
