Walking along the sidewalk in the charming South Beach neighborhood, one can’t help but notice the handsome Italian-style villa at 1515 Ocean Drive, No. 9, for its aesthetic quality, solid construction and soaring stature.
How fun it would be to sit on one of the 3-story home’s balconies taking in the breezes kicking off the ocean just across the street.
Well, Charlie and Lucille Havens have done so countless times as owners of this 3-level townhouse located in the quiet enclave of Village by the Sea.
“The balconies are great for everything from watching fireworks to having flowers and plants on them,” said Mr. Havens, owner of the home built in 2008.
“The [U.S. Navy’s flight demonstration squadron] Blue Angels were here last year, and we watched them from the balcony,” he added. “Most of the flights went straight through to the ocean!”
The Havens have accrued many great memories over the years in this Mediterranean-style home. Among them: enjoying its classic architecture and elegant gardens, those seemingly endless ocean breezes, and the fun of walking to local restaurants and mingling with friendly neighbors.
“We thought it was attractive [when we first saw it], and we enjoyed walking across Ocean Drive to go to the beach and walking to great restaurants,” said Mr. Havens. “From our balcony and one of the bedrooms, you can see the water. We moved in in 2008 and never regretted it.”
Still, the couple recently listed the 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath, end-unit townhouse with Treasure Coast Sotheby’s International Realty for $975,000.
If there’s anything to lament, it is the Havens’ need to move to a home that better suits their needs at this point in their lives. “We were very happy there, but it was time to move on. Every time I go back, I think of how nice it was.”
Treasured memories sprout from living in a home elegantly designed and well-located. The couple often walked to the Farmer’s Market just down the road on weekends.
Plus they enjoyed the neighbors who occupy other Village by the Sea townhouses.
“We had opportunities for entertainment and get-togethers at poolside, and the place is well managed.”
The traditional design offers three living levels linked by a private elevator. On the first level is a guest room that can double as an office, and there also is access to a 2-car garage.
The second level consists of an 18- by 14-foot living room and 11- by 14-foot dining room offering plenty of space to sit back and relax or entertain. The gourmet kitchen, also located on this level, is a masterpiece with wood cabinetry, granite countertop, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, double ovens and a breakfast bar.
The second level features a powder room and access to a balcony, as well.
On the top floor is the 16- by 12-foot master suite, which is stunning with wood flooring, plantation shutters and en suite bath with walk-in closet, large garden tub and walk-in shower. A guest room with its ownd private bathroom has a view of the ocean.
The home offers lots of opportunities to relax outside on expansive covered balconies or on the fireside patio by the swimming pool.
Broker associate and listing agent Janyne Kenworthy noted that the intimate gated enclave is not overwhelming in size.
“Its quiet, peaceful location, proximity to one of the best beaches in our county and newer construction offers the finest in beachside living perfect for those seeking a winter retreat, investment opportunity or someone looking for a low maintenance residence,” she said.