Potential! Circa 1914! One Acre In North Carolina For $179,900

12 Canfield Rd, Morris Twp., NJ 07960

$179,900 | 1914 | 3,500 Sq. Ft. | 5 Beds | 3 Baths | 1.06 Acres

There is a particular kind of presence that only a true early-20th-century home can command, the kind that feels rooted, dignified, and quietly confident in its place within a town’s history. This stately Neo-Classical Revival residence stands as one of those rare properties where architectural integrity, livable space, and opportunity intersect. Built in 1914 and set on just over an acre of land, this home offers not only generous square footage and thoughtful updates, but also the enduring beauty of a design era that valued symmetry, proportion, and craftsmanship above all else. In today’s real estate market, houses for sale with this level of authenticity are increasingly difficult to find.

From the moment the home comes into view, its commanding presence is unmistakable. The wrap-around porch immediately sets the tone, inviting slow mornings, quiet evenings, and a way of living that encourages connection to both the house and its surroundings. Porches like this were never meant to be decorative alone; they were designed as functional extensions of the home, places where neighbors were greeted, conversations unfolded, and the rhythm of daily life could be observed. Even now, that intention remains intact, offering future owners a space that feels both welcoming and timeless.

Stepping inside, the sense of scale becomes apparent. Soaring ceilings create an airy elegance that defines the interior, allowing light to travel freely and rooms to feel expansive without being overwhelming. Original crown moldings and chair rail details trace the walls, subtle yet deliberate reminders of the craftsmanship that shaped the home more than a century ago. These details are not replicas or modern interpretations; they are original elements that have survived decades of changing tastes, lending authenticity that cannot be recreated.

Throughout the home, stained glass windows serve as functional works of art. They filter light in a way that adds warmth and character to the interior, shifting with the time of day and the seasons. In the formal dining room, stained glass becomes a focal point, elevating the space into something more ceremonial while still remaining inviting. This is a room designed for shared meals, long conversations, and gatherings that feel both special and comfortable, a balance that defines many of the best historic homes listed for sale.

Pocket doors further enhance the home’s flexibility and charm. Once a hallmark of thoughtful design, these doors allow spaces to flow together or be closed off as needed, adapting easily to both formal entertaining and everyday living. Their presence speaks to an era when homes were designed with intention, offering privacy and openness in equal measure. For buyers navigating the real estate market in search of a house that can evolve with their needs, features like these add significant value.

One of the most desirable aspects of this home is the main-floor primary bedroom suite. In many historic properties, primary suites are located exclusively on upper levels, which can limit long-term flexibility. Here, the inclusion of a main-level suite with a private full bath offers convenience and accessibility without sacrificing character. It allows the home to accommodate a wide range of lifestyles, from multi-generational living to buyers planning for the future, all while preserving the architectural harmony of the original design.

The main floor continues to impress with a large kitchen that offers both function and potential. While already generous in size, it also presents an opportunity for personalization, allowing future owners to tailor the space to their preferences while respecting the home’s historic roots. Adjacent to the kitchen is a walk-in pantry, a feature that remains just as valuable today as it was when the home was built. Storage was once considered an essential part of good design, and this home reflects that philosophy throughout.

A sunroom adds another layer of versatility to the main level, providing a light-filled space that can serve as a reading room, casual sitting area, or indoor retreat during quieter moments. Its connection to the outdoors enhances the home’s sense of openness, while still offering shelter and comfort year-round. Nearby, a dedicated laundry room and convenient half bath ensure that daily routines are handled with ease, blending modern expectations with historic charm.

Upstairs, the home offers four additional generously sized bedrooms and a full bath. These rooms continue the theme of spaciousness and light, each offering ample room for furniture, personal expression, and varied uses. Whether used as bedrooms, home offices, creative studios, or guest accommodations, they provide flexibility that is increasingly sought after in homes for sale today. The second level reinforces the idea that this is a home built not just for appearance, but for livability.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the home has benefited from important updates that enhance comfort and reliability. A dual gas-pack HVAC system ensures efficient climate control, a significant consideration in a home of this size and age. Additionally, the roof, which is less than ten years old, provides peace of mind and reduces the likelihood of major near-term expenses. These improvements address some of the most critical components of homeownership, making the property especially appealing to buyers who want historic character without overwhelming maintenance concerns.

Outside, the property continues to offer both beauty and utility. A brick patio creates a natural gathering space for entertaining, dining, or simply enjoying the outdoors. It complements the home’s architectural style while providing a durable and attractive extension of the living space. The surrounding acre-plus lot offers room to breathe, garden, or further enhance the landscape, a rare feature that adds to the property’s overall appeal in the real estate market.

Several outbuildings on the property provide additional storage and functional options. Whether used for gardening tools, hobbies, or future projects, these structures contribute to the sense that this is a property designed to support an active and engaged lifestyle. They also reflect the way homes of this era were often part of a broader domestic ecosystem, where utility and beauty coexisted seamlessly.

While much of the heavy lifting has already been completed, the home invites the next owner to bring it fully back to life. Fresh paint and minor cosmetic updates would go a long way toward restoring the residence to its full splendor. Importantly, these are surface-level improvements rather than structural necessities, allowing buyers to focus on personalization rather than repair. For many navigating the real estate landscape, this balance is ideal: a home that is fundamentally sound, rich in character, and ready for thoughtful refinement.

Homes with this level of architectural integrity and historic value are increasingly rare, particularly at a price point that remains accessible. In a market where many properties are stripped of their original details or heavily altered, this residence stands out as a genuine example of its era. A knowledgeable realtor would immediately recognize its significance, not only as a place to live, but as a piece of local history that deserves stewardship.

The Neo-Classical Revival style itself adds another layer of distinction. Characterized by its emphasis on symmetry, proportion, and classical elements, the style conveys a sense of permanence and order that continues to resonate more than a century later. Owning such a home is not merely about square footage or amenities; it is about participating in a tradition of design that values elegance, restraint, and lasting beauty.

For buyers seeking a house for sale that offers more than modern finishes, this property presents a compelling alternative. It speaks to those who appreciate craftsmanship, history, and the subtle details that give a home its soul. At the same time, its size, layout, and updates ensure it meets the practical demands of contemporary living.

As this home enters the market, it represents a rare opportunity within today’s real estate environment. It is a property that appeals not only to the eye, but to the imagination, inviting future owners to envision what it can become while honoring what it already is. Whether approached as a family residence, a long-term investment, or a personal restoration project, the potential is undeniable.

In the end, this is not simply a home listed for sale. It is a reminder of what residential architecture once aspired to be, and what it can still offer when preserved with care. For the right buyer, this house is more than a purchase; it is a chance to become part of a continuing story, one defined by elegance, longevity, and the enduring appeal of a truly timeless home.

Photos:

Listed by:

KEVIN LEE 252-327-9668,

Lee and Harrell Real Estate Professionals

Also listed on Zillow!

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