“Too expensive to farm and too far out for development.” That’s how Mistletoe Heights was described around 1892 when the Mistletoe Heights Land Company bought the 640 acres of land on the bluffs overlooking the Clear Fork of the Trinity River. The neighborhood is, in fact, a mere two miles south of downtown Fort Worth.
It wasn’t till 1909 that the city annexed a portion of Mistletoe Heights with the platting of streets following in 1910. Houses were required to cost a whopping $5,000! Today median prices are around $500,000, and the neighborhood includes an appealing mix of quaint cottages and grander mansions like the Waggoner House. The city designated the neighborhood a historic district in 2002.
Sited on a tree-shaded corner lot with a private, landscaped, fenced front yard, with a covered porch 2300 Mistletoe Drive exudes a proud solidity. Stepping inside, you might not believe that this 3,168-square-foot, two-story, three-bedroom, three-bath house is over 100 years old as it has been so impeccably maintained and loved. That is until you notice all of the period details, such as the vintage millwork, nine-foot ceilings, and original oak floors.
The windows look as if they have been replaced and benefit from expensive plantation shutters. The living room has one of the most unusual tray ceilings with sinuous, serpentine curves. Also at ground level is a study with built-in shelves.
The classic floor plan includes a large formal dining room ideal for entertaining. That’s the study behind the glazed doors.
The remodeled kitchen includes a large island, two Sub-Zero refrigerators, top-of-the-line in-wall ovens, and a gas cooktop. Floors are slate. A wall of French windows was added during the remodel to frame garden views.
All three bedrooms are on the second level. The primary bedroom is extra large and includes a seating area and attached bath, also remodeled with marble countertops and marble tile floors.
The backyard has the full Texas repertoire of outdoor requisites including a deck, a large pool, and full outdoor kitchen. All this for about $260 per square foot in a neighborhood where houses can price out at $300 per square foot.
Parking is in a two-car detached garage.
Martha Price of Williams Trew Real Estate has priced 2300 Mistletoe Drive at $850,000.
