309 N East Street

THIS is what we talk about when we realtors talk about ''character.'' You cannot fake character. It's intangible and fleeting but when it's there, you FEEL it. So, old-home-lovers, this charming Victorian cottage is for you. It sits on one of the prettiest blocks in downtown Raleigh's Historic Oakwood and has as neighbors some of the oldest homes in all of Raleigh. Make your way up via the brick stairs that give it (and its partner at 311 N East) a positively regal entry. You'll be enchanted by the large front porch and its old-time swing. Inside, it's pretty much impossible not to notice first the shockingly beautiful heart-of-pine hardwood floors, and then your eyes move to the open space of the entry foyer and delightful living room that even has a secret space (you'll need to find it yourself when you arrive). Super-high ceilings, gorgeous trim and detail, authentic transom windows, an updated modern kitchen, a second bedroom or study and dining space round out this amazing little home. While we cannot put it in the official square footage due to ceiling height (tax records say this house is 1213 square feet), the upstairs room could sleep a guest, host an office, or simply provide storage space. Out back, there's a shady and secluded patio for hanging out. You know it feels like a real home when the mail is delivered right to the front door and here the postal service has been bringing the mail to this front door for 115 years and counting. Welcome to Historic Oakwood and walking amongst legends, stories, and the oldest homes in Raleigh. Nearby, the tongue-in-cheek ''Halloween House,'' the beautiful Oakwood Cemetery dating back to 1869, the best dog park in town, and all that the Person Street district has to offer. Or walk to the epicenter of downtown in right around 12 minutes flat. Brand-new HVAC in 2024; entire exterior repainted in 2021; wired and ready for Google Fiber.