Offered for sale is a 2 bedroom, 1 bath Conch house that is considered a contributing historical house by the City of Key West Historical Architectural Review Commission, located within its historical boundaries.
This 603 sq. ft. house has been in my family for three generation and I have owned it since 1971 and maintained it in excellent condition. In Feb 2012, a tenant smoking in bed caused a short but intense fire in the bedroom. After meeting with the H.A.R.C. board, engineers and contractors, it was decided to completely rebuild the house.
From March 2012 to March 2013, the little Conch house was completely gutted back to frame. Every wall, ceiling and floor was replaced or refurbished. Essentially this is a completely new house that retains its historical integrity. The house is a good candidate for the prestigious Historical Society Award in preservation in 2013. Forms and information are available from the Historical Society of Key West.
The quieter neighborhood, zoned medium density residential, is located in Zone X in Key West. This neighborhood is of higher elevation than many other parts of the island and is one of the few that did not sustain damage or flood water from Hurricane Wilma in 2005. This desirable area makes it an excellent monthly or vacation rental about 8 blocks from the best Key West beaches, 6 blocks from the upper-Duval Street, and a short bike ride to school and waterfront area. There is automobile parking on the street. Across the street is the El Siboney Restaurant that has excellent Cuban food and is a unique people-watching place. It opens at 11:30 and closes around 9 pm. There are numerous other restaurants and attractions within walking distance and the best Key West that has to offer. Neighbors are very friendly and helpful, many of which I have known for a long time, as I was raised in the neighborhood.
Structure – Completely gutted all walls, ceilings and windows. Additional pressure treated wall studs were added to the walls and ceilings were heavily insulated. Double paned windows were installed. Anything that was damaged was removed. The interior and exterior were power washed and spray sealed. Most ceilings were retained at the 10 foot height.
Flooring– All floors were stripped to the sub floor, floor joists and supports were added. All the floors were then covered in plywood. Membrane was added before oak flooring (not the cheap snap on type) was installed. The kitchen and bathroom were similarly rebuilt and covered in ceramic tile.
Roof– The entire roof and side storage area were replaced with v-crimp galvanized metal and membrane after a plywood base was added. The roof has been inspected and meets all code requirements and has a reported estimated life expectancy of 25 years by the insurance company’s inspector.
Electrical – While most of the electrical wiring and circuit box were ok, it was all replaced and upgraded with a new 200 amp panel. The sub panel is mounted outside and the circuit panel is conveniently located in the house. Every electric wire, box, switch and outlet was replaced. There are ground fault outlets on the front porch, bathroom, kitchen, backyard and storage area. All electrical systems have received final approval by the inspector. There are extra unused circuits to facilitate future additions if desired. There are built in smoke detectors.
Central Air and Heat – A complete new unit with control located inside the house and removable filters located for easy access. All rooms have a sending and return vent. The thermostat is located in the hallway.
Kitchen– Completely rebuilt walls, floor, ceiling, sliding window, sink base, cabinets, plumbing and ceramic tile floor. New energy star Maytag refrigerator with built in ice maker and easily accessible micro filter and cut off valve. GE energy star stove with smooth ceramic cooktop. Hot Point microwave and exhaust fan installed over cooktop. Corner space is available for small dishwasher or shelf. Sink base has storage drawers and laminate top. Double sink with removable spray head.
Plumbing– Most plumbing was ok but replaced or upgraded new lines, drains and fixtures. Drain system was snaked out completely from the back to the front sewer connection and has received code compliance final inspection. Toilet is an efficient 1.28 gallon per flush type.
Storm Shutters – Front windows are protected by strict approved Bahama shutters for protection and privacy. Every other window, door and vent is protected by approved panel shutters. This system qualifies for lower rate wind insurance.
Front Porch – The front porch has been completely rebuilt with a new concrete base, wall and roof structure and pressured treated siding. Complete new steps, 6 x6 supports and historic style Conch spindles and balusters, which have been H.A.R.C. approved.
Attic – The attic has been completely cleaned and spray sealed. Heavily insulated, this houses the mechanical air conditioning and heating unit. Some storage flooring is provided. Extra porch spindles, ceramic tiles and oak flooring are stored in the attic. The front of the attic has a passive wooden vent and a rear electric fan vent. The fan can be set on manual or thermostat setting to vent the hot air in the attic and improve the AC function. There is a large, lockable access door located in the bathroom ceiling. There is also a switch, light and outlet in the attic.
Storage Area – Between 907 and 909 Catherine St is a roofed storage area. This narrow area houses the hot water heaters for both houses as well as some storage area. There is a PVC pipe that provides access to well water should the new owner chose to add a pump. This is one of the few Key West houses that have non- potable fresh water well. It can be hooked up to the toilet or to water outside to save money. The roof has been completely replaced and there is a lockable door.
Backyard/Patio – The small backyard and patio area is approximately 8 by 18 feet. It has a partial covered roof area with access to the washer/dryer connections and concrete slab. The AC handler is located here. It is a very small area for sitting. The patio has GFI outlets. Enough room to replace outdoor shower.
There are several items I feel should stay with the house:
- a 5’5” section of old railroad train track from the Henry Flagler railroad to Key West that was destroyed in the hurricane of 1935;
- a railroad sign from an old back highway in South Carolina.
- The old ships’ porthole window and brass megaphone are from the old Key West based salvage ship, M.V. Curb, that is now an artificial reef off of Key West.
- Old brass trombone, beer clocks, etc., stay with the house.
Other Info:
All windows have a pin or keyed lock for security.
New 8 ft. ladder stays with the house and will provide attic access, and also used to change light bulbs and clean ceiling fans as most ceilings are 10 ft.
Most light bulbs are energy star rated. Hallway chandelier has incandescent bulbs and dimmer control.
Front porch and back patio have energy efficient LED light fixtures.
Rooms have connections for phone and cable.
Each bedroom door lock is keyed differently.
Front and back door convenience knob and deadbolts are keyed alike for 1 key access.
Both ceiling fans are switch and remote controlled.
Maintenance – Set up for low maintenance with granite rock around perimeter and drainage. Easy care plants in front and back. Almost everything is new!
Rental – With the house in this new condition, $2000 per month is reasonable in Key West. Strong potential for high season and festivals make this a great asset.
Purchase: Prospective buyers who need to finance provide a pre-qualification letter from their bank before an offer will be considered. Owner financing is not available.
For information about purchase, contact Lenny Carey 305-797-6963.
