1 Ponce De Leon Ave

Description

Built in 1890 and is named Castle Betsworth, after the Massachusetts Sea Captian Betsworth who built the home. This is a property bursting with charm and history. This regal residence was one of the first four homes built on Anastasia Island and is truly unique as an example of Dutch Victorian Architecture. Today, Castle Betsworth enjoys a prime position in the highly desired Lighthouse Park close to downtown and the beaches. You'll enjoy the cooling sea breezes and natural light of the sites elevation perched at 21' above sea level. The home's broad wrap-around porches make the most of the Intracoastal views and provide perfect outdoor living and dining areas. Decorative intersecting gable work and an iconic half-circle design set this home apart while inside, you will discoverperfect blend of old-world elegance and modern comfort. Rustic wood beams and gorgeous hardwood floors sit alongside ceiling fans and pendant lights for a welcoming feel. There are four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, plus multiple living spaces connected by archways to ensure a room for every mood and occasion. The kitchen is large and filled with light, ready for a culinary conversion into a chef's dream space. The detached garage offers work space below with space for an office/yoga studio above. A charming detached cottage has a ship-like interior currently used as an in-law suite or it could be used as short-term accommodation for those wishing to stay in one of St. Augustine's most historic neighborhoods  with the passing beam of the lighthouse overhead, still guiding ships away from danger. The generous and centrally located corner lot enjoys added space of a lot and with a side yard that is unusual for this neighborhood. There is plenty of room for the green thumb to bring their dream gardens to life or you can simply enjoy as-is. You will live close to all the shopping and dining you could need, both downtown and on Anastasia Island. As well, you will be a short walk away from the highest rated elementary school in St. Johns County, R.B. Hunt Elementary. The resources of the Lighthouse Park community are plentiful, from museums to tennis courts, to parks, to a sailing beach (next to St. Augustine Yacht Club) to a skateboard park. All of this within a short bike ride from the beaches of Anastasia State Park and St. Augustine's historic center. This neighborhood is truly a great place to live and raise a family. The home could also be a great short-term rental used by large families, wedding parties, etc. Metric high end income model spread sheets available upon request of both the main house and cottage. Being fully gutted and renovated by current owner in 2000, the home was re-wired, re-plumbed from street to septic and fully insulated throughout the house. HVAC was replaced in 2019 and NEW ROOF installed April 2022. This property comes with the option to buy as-is at a price of $1.2million or have the option to add updates at different price points. A new Roof, updated kitchen countertops, complete professional paint job, revitalized historic detailing and many small projects under way. There are many opportunities to put your own take on the finishes - personalize the house to your aesthetic standards, should you desire to purchase as-is. Or, if you want to simply move in and enjoy, floor plans are available for a full restoration with the option to purchase the move-in-ready home at a price of $1.45 million; the choice is all yours. A complete list of finished specifications are available from the Architect / Builder upon request.