Splurge vs. Steal: Magical Homes Await in Salem, Massachusetts
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Our Splurge: 1 Daniels Street, Salem, Massachusetts, is listed by the Merry Fox Team of Merry Fox Realty for $610,000.
Who is ready for the popped corn, the bat brownies, the fabulous return of Hocus Pocus on repeat? Well, then it shouldn’t take long to figure out why we selected Salem, Massachusetts for our latest Splurge vs. Steal.
Need a Hocus Pocus refresh? Here goes, courtesy of Wikipedia:
After moving to Salem, Mass., teenager Max Dennison (Omri Katz) explores an abandoned house with his sister Dani (Thora Birch) and their new friend, Allison (Vinessa Shaw). After dismissing a story Allison tells as superstitious, Max accidentally frees a coven of evil witches (Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy) who used to live in the house. Now, with the help of a magical cat, the kids must steal the witches’ book of spells to stop them from becoming immortal.
Thus, comedy, sibling rivalry, and teenage love ensues. We love a cult classic this time of year! And speaking of classic, the historic town of Salem affords more than witch trials and its annual Halloween Ball. Salem is a seaside city nestled on the northern coast of Massachusetts. It’s famous for its 1692 witch trials, but has come a long way since. There’s oodles of authentic New England charm, gorgeous lighthouses, eerie museums, historic homes, and more! In fact, today we feature two historic beauties in our latest Splurge vs. Steal that truly capture the spirit of the fall. Take a look!
Splurge: One Of The Oldest Homes In Salem Available For $610K
One look at this eye-catching house and you’ll be transported back in time. It’s one of the oldest residences in Salem and offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to own a piece of Salem history.
According to the description, it was built in 1667 for shipwright Stephen Daniels, and is aptly known as the Daniels House. It features multiple fireplaces, wide plank pine wood floors, exposed beams, and the list goes on. If only walls could talk!
Property records indicate the oldest parts of the building are the lower two stories of the southern half of the structure. The northern half, situated on the third floor, plus the sizable lean-to were added by Samuel Silsbee in 1756. Silsbee was Daniel’s great-grandson and a carpenter by trade.
Now the broker admits in the description that it “needs substantial work both inside and outside of house.” But if you’re looking for an adventure and historic gem on the northern coast of Massachusetts, this impressive home can’t be beat!
From our research, it appears the Daniels House recently operated as a bed and breakfast, but has since closed shop. A Facebook page for the Stephen Daniels House reveals it was owned by a Ms. Catherine Gill, best known as “Kay,” who owned and operated the Daniels House for over 55 years.
A friend writes fondly of the then 87-year-old Kay saying:
“She has met people from all over the world and told them stories of Stephen Daniels, the Hallers, and herself to thousands of people, and I will tell you this, whoever has met Kay and slept here at the Daniels House is an event they will always remember whether it’s good or bad!!! Kay is a unique person as is the Daniels House!! I love her dearly and it is a honor and pleasure to be a part of her life, and be part of the many stories here at the Daniels House!!”
A reviewer on TripAdvisor speaks to how the home lives:
“My daughter and I loved our stay at The Daniel’s house! The home is inviting and interesting. Best: It was like spending a few nights in the 1600’s; a museum or antiques and history. The bedrooms are beautiful and comfortable. Wendy and Robin were cheerful and accommodating. I wanted to take the bed sheets home with me – it was like sleeping on a cloud. The home is centrally located so that every point of interest is within easy walking distance. I would definitely stay at the Daniel’s House again! You can also see my full review on TripAdvisor.”
Now it’s time for one lucky buyer to make new memories in the Daniels House. Historians, fixer uppers, and ghost hunters alike will take solace in a place so rich in Salem history.
The Merry Fox Team of Merry Fox Realty has listed 1 Daniels Street, Salem, Massachusetts, for $610,000.
Steal: Historic Cottage By The Sea For $425K
Want to lighten things up? Then this historic cottage by the sea is for you.
It offers an idyllic Salem location and would make for a stellar VRBO! The antique renovated cottage is situated in a quaint seaside enclave in Salem, near three beaches, Salem Willows, plus a ferry to Boston.
Local eateries are but a hop, skip, and a jump away, coupled by Historic Downtown Salem.
It was updated in 2017 and we are told all the heavy lifting has been done for you, including fresh paint, carpet, new wood floors, and more.
Low-maintenance living, complete with room for one- to two-car parking, round out this unique Salem offering.
Just picture the stargazing you’ll do from that cute covered porch, and those beachy adventures on All Hallows’ Eve! Clearly the stars have aligned for this one.
Jude Toner of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Marblehead has listed 107 Bay View Avenue, Salem, Massachusetts for $425,000.
