126 Franklin Ave

PRICED AT $62,000 BELOW APPRAISED VALUE. A true Lewes landmark, the first Lewes National Bank is now for sale. One of the few remaining Federal period homes, the bank was purchased and moved from Second Street in 1918 by famed local sea captain James Bartlett. Make sure to read the article recently published in the Cape Gazette, titled "Former Lewes National Bank for sale as historic home." A meticulous renovation, spanning over 20 months, perfectly retains the home's historic character while adding modern conveniences. Five bedrooms, three fully renovated baths, a study, a second bar and kitchen area, a rare second-story porch, and many more surprises await within this important and spacious home. Multiple engineer's letters, new high-velocity HVAC, plumbing, electric, and a chef-inspired gourmet kitchen, along with all new interior and exterior finishes, woodwork, and incredible attention to detail, only begin to describe the restoration process. A must-see home in person. Your entire family and guests, accommodating up to 15, will be in awe of your historic treasure. Upon arriving at the property, you are greeted with all-new, Grade A1 western cedar shake from Oregon. Period-correct, individually installed, double-coursed cedar shake provides maximum protection and longevity. The original cypress cedar shake has been sealed in "oyster grey" and remains on the entrance wall of the home. The period shutters, circa 1834, are from an Annapolis tobacco farm and have been installed with iron hardware. The newly installed, three car driveway includes a brick border with crushed oyster shell. The new walkway and porch are lined with vintage brick and real brick veneer. Period-correct columns on the first and second-story porch, along with the Lewes National Bank sign, are an exact match to an original photo of the building. Upon entering, to the right, you have a period-correct study, with a newly restored fireplace, an installed wood stove, and a marble mantel. To the left, you'll find the chef-inspired gourmet kitchen and dining area, adorned with custom window trim, wainscoting, and original exposed beams found during the renovation. To the left of the kitchen, there is a living room with custom picture frame molding. Off the living room, you'll find a large bedroom with a spacious closet and a private entrance from the exterior. From the living room, you can take a separate staircase to the primary suite. This portion of the second floor includes a private bedroom, a large full bath with a tub, a private living space, and its own entrance to the second-story porch. The living room, main-level bedroom, and second-story primary suite were added in 2002. Back into the dining area, take the original staircase to the historic side of the second story. To the right of the second-story landing, you have an extra-large bedroom with exposed original beams and a 13-foot ceiling. To the left of the landing, there is a foyer with a bar, a kitchen area, and exposed beams. Cocktails can be served from your bar directly onto the second-story porch with an entrance from the foyer. The foyer also provides access to the large custom bathroom with double rainfall showerheads. Another large bedroom completes the historic side of the second floor. Behind your bar area is a large staircase to the final bedroom on the third floor. A kid's paradise with nautical-themed wallpaper, a rope border, a full bed with a twin trundle, and a reading nook. The newly restored fireplace and chimney can be found in this room, which extends the ceiling by five feet, featuring a stepped-out brick structure with real copper flashing and a cap. An often-misused phrase, this is a true once-in-a-lifetime chance: the chance to own one of the most important pieces of real estate in the first city in the first state. We are proud to present to you the first Lewes National Bank. Listing agent Michael Finkle is the sole owner of the LLC that holds the property.

Price Change History for 126 Franklin Ave, LEWES, DE (MLS® #DESU2048754)