There’s something about these old warehouse-style brick buildings that people go crazy for. Usually, it’s the vast open spaces that tend to get potential buyers talking about the possibilities.
A couple of weeks ago, someone put a bug in my ear about checking out 451 Vermont Street, which is right around the corner from my house. Earlier today I met up with listing agent Sarah Bohn, who gave me the nickel tour of the place.
It all started with the first floor, where the current owner houses all of his “toys,” along with a gym. Sarah told me that the gym/boxing ring is relocating, which is why the owner has decided to sell.
Towards the back of the building, on the second floor, there is a large empty room that has some telltale signs of a fire, although there is now new roofing, and the brickwork is currently being pointed. After the work is complete, it will be a blank slate, ready to be utilized in a new capacity.
In-between the second floor space (in the back) and the second floor space (in the front), is an outdoor patio that is ideal for socializing, gardening, etc.
Finally, the second floor (facing the street) is fully framed out for two 1200 square foot apartments, with City-approved drawings (available to the new owner).
Altogether, the building boasts over 10,000 square feet to play around with. As for any outdoor space (other than the patio), Sarah told me that there is a tentative agreement between the owner of the building and the owner of a significant adjoining lot, for a contract to be in place at closing (included in the sale, but it sounds like there needs to be some caressing of the arrangement).
Other than that, the building is for sale at an asking price of $575K. It’s currently listed as a commercial property, although it’s future designation will most like be mixed-use.
These circa 1900 warehouse buildings are becoming harder and harder to find, especially in such walkable neighborhoods. It would be great to see this one get a buildout that it deserves, whether that’s residential, commercial, or mixed-use.
As for Vermont Street, it’s looking very nice as a whole these days – the street has come a long way, with plenty of people investing in the properties…. and it shows.
Get connected: Sarah Bohn | Gurney, Becker, Bourne | (716)-812-4947 | See listing