There are so many people looking for a move in-ready home inside 635, and thanks to a shortage in available inventory, prices are going through the roof. But some economists still warn of “shadow inventory” that could make a mess of residential housing markets as investors bring properties to the market in a blitz of ready-to-sell homes. That could have dire effects on prices and demand.
But on a more local note, let’s talk about the high demand for homes in Oak Cliff. Two years ago, you’d be crazy to price a two-bedroom, two-bath Tudor in West Kessler for $325,000. It would sit on the market for month after month with no bites at all. But now, with our market and inventory as it is, it’s not a reach to see a Tudor like 614 Tenna Loma Court on the market at $325K. Truly, Dave Perry-Miller Realtor Mike Bates knows the price is right.
That pricing also speaks to the neighborhood and amenities, especially how far this area in Dallas has come in the past decade. I remember speaking to Delia Jasso about how North Oak Cliff has become such a sought-after neighborhood because the people who live here are constantly talking about the area, promoting it, and their evangelism has been infectious.
And that, in turn, has driven up demand and prices as homeowners and investors remodel some of the amazing homes in this neighborhood. This West Kessler Tudor is a great example of that.
It has more than 1,500 square feet and has a floorplan that emphasizes open and generous entertaining. The Living and dining room are connected, and that shows off the gorgeous refinished hardwoods that are original to this beautiful 1940s home. The kitchen has a center island with a modern stainless range hood over the gas cooktop. A single stainless steel built-in oven adds to the overall functionality of the kitchen, too, while the modern-style honey birch cabinetry keeps the room from feeling closed in and dark. There are granite counters as well as an eat-in breakfast area next to sliding doors that open to the patio.
The two bathrooms have been completely remodeled and have some gorgeous features. And thank goodness these sellers aren’t listening to the National Association of Home Builders, which says that more buyers prefer bathrooms without tubs. Instead, they put a big old claw-foot masterpiece surrounded by marble in there. With the addition of two separate modern vessel-style vanities. this bathroom is a winner.
The second bathroom also has a vessel-style vanity, but instead has a corner shower with mosaic tile. But this is the kicker — I think this was originally a mud room or washroom that was converted to a full bath, because there’s a little spot for a stackable washer and dryer there. I think that’s pretty brilliant planning, especially for those people who own older houses that have the laundry area in the kitchen. The plumbing is already in the mudroom area, so why not move the whole dang thing and add a shower?
The backyard in this home, while large and featuring a two-car detached garage, is very bare. It’s a grand opportunity for a homeowner to make it their own, maybe add a vegetable garden and a chicken coop (are we still doing that?) and build a little personality into their own spot of North Oak Cliff.
