House of the Day: 735 Decatur Street Revisited
When 735 Decatur Street was House of the Day back in December of 2997 2007, it was asking $630,000 and we called it “by far the most charming house for the money on the market right now.” Well, now its asking price has fallen to $469,000 and the same statement still holds. We just hope…
When 735 Decatur Street was House of the Day back in December of 2997 2007, it was asking $630,000 and we called it “by far the most charming house for the money on the market right now.” Well, now its asking price has fallen to $469,000 and the same statement still holds. We just hope that whoever buys this place is able to negotiate a price that leaves them enough money to redo the facade! For lots of pics, check out this Flickr page from someone who almost bought the house.
735 Decatur Street [Corley Real Estate] GMAP
735 Decatur Street [Brooklyn Properties] P*Shark
House of the Day: 735 Decatur Street [Brownstoner]
The fact they wouldn’t allow a second inspection but they would allow us in after we signed the contract, that the house is empty, that the estate sold to the current owner for such a low price, that the inspection report said foundation problems had been covered up in a “dishonest” manner — these things concerned us. On the other hand, maybe there’s nothing more there than meets the eye.
Aw, Montrose, thank you for the kind words. Also, how do you recommend doing the dishes?! We were thinking of putting those old-fashioned drainboards in on each side, to have someplace to prop the dirty and clean dishes before and after washing.
Bkny, I wish I went on the Bed Stuy house tour last year. Wonder if I should talk to your friends? Ask them if they know anything about 735 Decatur…
But we withdrew our offer one week ago and that is that, at least for now. We would like to find something similar where we’re living now, but there is nothing over there with this nice floor plan, never mind the period detail. We’re very tired of our badly maintained ’80s gut-job rental. (Prefer badly maintained Victorian.)
mopar – you have the right vibe about this area. don’t let the naysayers get to you. if they would have seen my house when we bought it they would have been saying the same things. we had electrical and plumbing to update and no one had lived in the house for a few years – so it was a risk. the only thing i would be concerned about is the foundation/structural issues. if the price works for you – go for it!
Too damn close to Broadway. Next.
***Bid half off peak comps***
The fact that they didn’t want you in for a second inspection bothers me more than the crime statistics. Do you know if the termite damage is old or ongoing? Foundation work could just be a matter of repointing bricks and adding lolly columns. Do you know the extent of the structural damage? You’re probably talking about replacing joists and beams if there was termites.
Hey, it can’t hurt to keep looking. If this one is meant to be, it will happen. If not, there’s something better waiting.
The days of easy credit are over.
People who can qualify for a half a million dollar mortgage have to have a decent income. I can’t imagine a family with a decent income settling for this. But maybe the block is nicer than it seems from these pictures.
Gemini, I think the sole criterion for HOTD is period detail. The rest of the house can be a dump if at least one ornate wooden screen is intact.
Just kidding.
Sort of.
Yes, that is a great reduction, Mopar, but it’s still more than 5 serious incidents per day.
I don’t think a neighborhood with 5 serious crimes per day warrants half million dollar home prices. That’s just me, though.
Mopar, it’s a great house. It has a lot of potential, and as others have said, I’d keep my eye on it, and don’t give up yet. You obviously love it, and I can see why.
You know more than anyone whether the neighborhood is right for you, so don’t let people here talk you out of it on that account.
I love the sinks and built-ins, as well as that great Eastlake mantle. My kitchen sink is similar to the one with feet, only my feet are on the very front sides, not towards the middle. It’s one of my favorite things about my entire house.
Good luck with whatever you decide.