House of the Day: 141 Hancock Street
Hancock is probably our favorite street in Bed Stuy so we’re predisposed to like this place at Number 141 (though, to be fair, the 200-block is the most stunning). Unfortunately, while it’s clear there’s some impressive historic detail in the house, the listing is very thin on both description and photos, which makes us suspect…
Hancock is probably our favorite street in Bed Stuy so we’re predisposed to like this place at Number 141 (though, to be fair, the 200–block is the most stunning). Unfortunately, while it’s clear there’s some impressive historic detail in the house, the listing is very thin on both description and photos, which makes us suspect that it’s in need of some work. If that’s the case, the asking price of $825,000 is probably a little too optimistic.
141 Hancock Street [Rutenberg Realty] GMAP P*Shark
I too am fortunate to live in the 200 block on Hancock Street. I think that area is the next ‘it’ zone. Unfortunately there is an unwarranted stigma associated with living in Bed Stuy. There is a new movement to rename that area Bedford hills… watch what happens in the next 5 years…. get in now if you can.
Wow, amyb, you’ve convinced me that’s where I want to move! (If we move, I keep thinking we need to stay here until kindergarden to stay in ps11 — but that news about schools is really encouraging!)
I too live near here (between Nostrand and Marcy not far from Hancock) and echo all the positive statements above – particularly comment by Heather above about it being the “next big thing.” Anyone getting a house on this block will be glad, and soon. What I like is that it is near the A express (4 stops to Broadway/Nassau) and about equal time to get from the shops/restaurants of Stuy Hts and those of CH/FG. When I’m over in Stuy Hts it is SO FAR out that it just seems like too big a hassle to get over to the CH/FG area, to Prospect Park etc. (Nothing against Stuy Hts, it is so lovely that when I’m there I don’t mind staying (!), just like being closer in.)
Having a toddler as we do it has also been a nice middle ground. I get to know families in both neighborhoods and participate in kid classes etc in both as well. In terms of schools: Stuy Hts Parents Association, local parents, and teachers etc have created a great charter school in The Brownstone School (Lewis and McDonough). I’ve also heard that Leadership Prep and Excellence Charter are also very solid choices, as is Stuy Hts Montessori. So, even if only a few years old there are starting to be some really positive school choices and the parents are HIGHLY involved. Lastly, as most know the new (and great) Bed Stuy YMCA is near here as well as banks, grocery stores, rehabbed library etc.
OK, so this turned into a bit of a love letter about the soon to be “Bedford Historic District” (yes, it is in the works) – sorry for that, but sometimes the negative just needs to be countered. Come see for yourself.:)
I’m confused… the realtor’s website has both 141 Hancock and 148 Hancock listed, and in the photos they appear to be the same house.
Regardless, I’m a big fan of this area. Not Stuy Heights but landmarking is in the works (I believe as “Bedford Historic District”). And you’re one express stop closer to the city, plus Clinton Hill is within walking distance… I’m not sure by how much since the borders of CH are apparently quite elastic according to realtors! But I’ve generally heard that CH ends at Classon, although some say it ends at Franklin. The Western end of Hancock Street begins at Franklin (right at the Bedford Library, which is a building I love).
Thanks for the info, Montrose!
Nice detail on the stairs, just needs some Zip Strip and a lot of elbow grease, and it’s probably fine quality woodwork. Me likey. I’m tempted to see it just for the heck of it.
Price wise, back in the good old days, a couple of years ago, it would have sold at that price, unless the rest of the house was trashed. Now, I think it’s going to have to drop, especially if the rest of the house is in rough shape. It is a four family, so there’s probably a lot to do in there.
It’s a nice block, not as cool as the next two blocks, but still quite fine. Montrose’s block is between Marcy-Thompkins, the second block up from here, which is Brownstoner’s favorite block. It’s probably my favorite block, too, although there are a couple of other strong contenders in the area, for a variety of reasons. Living on this block still gives you bragging rights for a Montrose Morris building on the corner, in the form of the Renaissance Apartments.
Schools are also probably partially responsible for the pricing change — ps 11 is well-regarded. 56 and whatever is after that, less so?
That being said, I think that area is actually NICER than some of Clinton Hill and has comparable amenities. Plus, being on the A-train would be nice. Living on the C has taught me to miss living on an express.
Don’t know about pricing, but that area is where I think the next big appreciation will be. Not that I am an expert, by any means, but I think its geography and architecture are hard to pass up — plus that area of Fulton is extremely vital with a ton of stores.
Brickoven,
The discrepancy is ALL based on the ratio of black and white simple as that.
Stuy Heights is 5 blocke East of here.