The day was humid and overcast despite a forecast of clear and sunny skies. While damp hung in the air, my mood was as sunny as ever. I was excited, thrilled even, about a broker luncheon and progressive open house I'd heard about and had every intention of attending this very afternoon--rain or shine. I've been to this type of open house in the past and they are quite telling. They usually happen mid-week as opposed to on the weekends where mostly consumers traffic thru. These functions are designed to introduce a new property to area brokers who, in turn, will alert their list of prospective buyers that a new gem is on the market. Having said that, it IS an open house and if you happen by one of these mid-week soirees you certainly won't get turned away. If you are in the market for a broker--to buy or to sell--it's a virtual buffet of choices as you have them all in one place to chat up and assess to your heart's desire. I'm not in the market for one--today--but you never know!!
Today's real estate adventure took me to the very affluent yet private community of Hamilton, Massachusetts. Hamilton is typical New England small town living. Rolling hills, horses nibbling in fields of green against a backdrop of steepled white churches is the scene you will expect to find as you drive thru this northshore town. Add an excellent school system and conveniences just up the road and you have the perfect place to live.
The open house was to be held from 11am - 2pm and I wanted to arrive on time to better my chances of taking an inconspicuous video of my self guided tour. I could have spent all day in this home!! From the moment I turned into the long and winding drive and made my way past tennis courts, basketball courts, a view of the pool and pool house and, of course, landscaping perfection, I knew I would love this home. Make note that I said "home" and not "house". There is a difference.
I parked and as I made my way up the walk the sun peaked thru the clouds. The artful beds that flanked my stroll came alive with inviting color. As I neared the front door I could hear the soothing sounds of music that I would later learn was piped thru a sound system that incorporates every room in the house so that no matter where you are you are caressed by your musical choices. It was serene, just beautiful.
The main entrance leads you thru a grand foyer complete with a sweeping cascade of "Gone With the Wind" stairs. The walls are tastefully muraled and I instantly envisioned my daughter making her way down that staircase in prom gown and later, perhaps, a wedding gown. Thru the foyer is a sunken fireplaced living room. The open and bright kitchen sits to the left and an office with floor to ceiling built in bookcases to the right. The decor is consistently current, stylishly done and decidedly comfortable. 
To the left of the foyer is a formal dining room. Again, beautifully decorated with soothing colors. While it's a formal dining area the homeowner has ensured the comfort of their guests by the decorating choices they've made. This is true throughout the house. I want to sit at that table and sip wine. I picture a holiday party.
To the right of the foyer is a formal sitting room with room for a piano and they have one. As I entered someone was seated and playing. A testament to the consistent "I'm home" feeling you get here. The room is done in shades of white and cream, the sofas are comfortable, the windows oversized and the natural lighting is warm and bright. I sat and listened. More visions... I see myself curled up on this sofa with a hot cup of tea and a good book on some cold and snowy day.
Brokers are arriving and I want to finish my video so I ascend those gorgeous stairs. Bedrooms abound. How many are there, I've lost count, 6? Bathrooms abound, again I've lost count, one for every bedroom? This house is almost 7500 square feet and it just never ends. The closets are huge and enviable. There is a playroom at one end of the home where I am certain the kids must have played their video games and watched their Disney movies. I love being here. I hear the voices of the 6 children who grew up in this beautiful home. This was a happy home, I can feel it in these walls and see it in their family pictures. It's comforting.
I make my way back to the kitchen and have a seat at the table and enjoy a nice lunch and pleasant conversation before heading outside. It is during this conversation that I learn that the basement is also finished and is complete with a game room and home gym. I exit thru the rear entrance of the kitchen thru a large three season porch. The porch is nicely decorated with a large table and many chairs that would accommodate, I imagine, several dinner guests for a midsummer party.
I made my way thru the impeccably manicured back yard to the pool area and pool house. On my way thru I meet the "pool guy". While he doesn't come with the property he is quick to tell me that he is available for hire to the new owners. He was pleasant and clearly was well acquainted with the property. I notice that there is also a jacuzzi set a short distance from the pool. I enter the pool house to find more comfort. There is a nice sitting area, TV, sofas and changing rooms for guests. Did I mention that I can still hear the music? I'm sure there are speakers out here as well but try as I may I cannot locate them.
All in all I think I spent nearly 2 hours touring this gem of a home. I left relaxed and envious of whoever is the lucky bidder. This property is going to make some lucky family a very happy home indeed!!
Thanks for stopping by!! See you next time!
Michelle
+Michelle Morrissette Cucchiaro
+If These Walls Could Talk
