CHELSEA – Built almost 70 years ago by an adept diviner who discovered water here (the well is on the right side of the house) this home has been in the same family ever since.

Most recently used as a rental bringing in about $800 per month, the property has a strong history in that regard, thanks largely to its fortunate location: very convenient to both Augusta and Gardiner; just 1.5 miles from the Togus veterans’ center; and just over a half-mile from Chelsea Elementary School (K-8).

So, the home is an attractive proposition for an investor. And also for first-time homeowners who, considering the asking price of $69,900, will be happy to find themselves in their own home with a monthly mortgage payment significantly less than they were paying in rent.

If the new owners are handy, and ready to build some sweat equity, those qualities should prove useful, since the house would benefit from some cosmetic updates. But only as time and budget permit, because there is no pressing need. Some buyers might like to add a garage (there’s plenty of space on the 1.2-acre lot) or run a fence or plant a hedge along the road frontage, although the house is set fairly well back.

Past the 12-foot-by-10-foot deck, the home has a paneled, hardwood-floored three-season porch. A table by the window, for dining much of the year, would go very well. The “real” dining room is on the far side of the kitchen, which has new flooring, and white cabinetry and white appliances including gas range (no dishwasher, though). The front of the home is one big, carpeted living room; the exposed ceiling beam suggests that this may have been two rooms at one time.

Upstairs there are three bedrooms, and each has a deep closet with shelving. The full bath has a soaking tub; and a smallish fourth room, also with closet/shelving, makes an excellent office. While the house at 1,375 square feet is not spacious, it is worth noting that one generation of the family raised five children here.

The full basement, with a walk-out, has good ceiling height and storage space, a workshop area with workbench, and laundry hookups. The boiler has been updated with new valves and components, and the well pump is new. Out back, there’s a sizable garden shed.

The home at 437 Togus Road, Chelsea, is listed by Heather Hinton of Century 21 Baribeau Agency in Brunswick, and is being shown by appointment. For more information or to arrange a private viewing, please contact Heather at 729-3333 ext. 134, 485-5575 or at heather.hinton@century21.com.

Produced by the Marketing Department of the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel, the Home of the Week is provided at no cost.

Send HOW suggestions to jrolfe@pressherald.com.

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