I know that all of the staging advice we publish says, rather unequivocally, to make the home look as if only humans live there. It gives buyers an opportunity to picture themselves in the space, and not all buyers have furry friends. In fact, some people are not pet lovers at all.
But I do want to give big ups to the homeowner at 2531 W 10th Street in Kessler Plaza, because this person is letting their Cat Lady flag fly. And I still love the home!
Kessler Plaza, which is south of Jefferson and west of Hampton in North Oak Cliff, is a wonderful and affordable neighborhood of 1940s traditionals and Tudors. It’s got the same rolling topography of it’s tony northern neighbor, Kessler Park, but without the high prices. And this home, a two-bedroom, one-bath traditional with 1,272 square feet, is listed by Virginia Cook Realtor Susan Melnick for $220,000. Yes, that’s how hot our market is, that a little cottage in an up-and-coming neighborhood like Kessler Plaza in Oak Cliff, is priced in the $200Ks.
But when you go in the front door of this super cute cottage, you’ll just fall in love. Seriously, there’s something to be said of rules that were meant to be broken, and this homeowner broke all the right ones. Neutral? Nah! This person decided to go vibrant and vampy with dark jewel tones and creamy white walls. The built-ins stand out thanks to dreamy dark gray blue paint that matches the dining room walls. The accessories really set off the paint colors, with greens, teals, and oranges. The fireplace is gorgeous, with a painted white mantle that moves the decor from modern to transitional.
In the dining room, the modern chandelier adds tons of charm. It’s not huge or imposing, but just enough glam to make you feel a little pampered. I love the modern furniture and more traditional decor, as well as the way the arched passageway is accented by the fresh white mouldings. The original hardwoods are in great shape for a home built in 1940, too.
The kitchen is sweet and so perfect for someone who wants a more open feel without too much fuss. Of course, this is the first place where we spot the telltale sign that our seller loves kitties: a litterbox next to the sideboard. Let’s not let that detract from the cute cabinetry and pretty paint, as well as the lovely little chalkboard door to the pantry. I do like the beadboard along the walls and the fun, vintage feeling countertop tile, as well as the little niche the range occupies. And of course, buyers love stainless steel appliances. But that mirror above the sink? It’s a little weird. Then again, it’s a blessing for those of us who’d prefer to have eyes in the back of our heads or would like an opportunity to check if there’s still salad stuck between our teeth as we serve the next course to our dinner guests.
The listing says that there are two bedrooms in this home, but the second bedroom is being used as a second living area, which is separated by an office space that is just off the master. The master bedroom follows suit with the same dark gray paint and jewel-toned accessories as the rest of the house. But thanks to the abundant natural light from the windows in the master bedroom, it doesn’t feel dark or cave-like. In the second bedroom, the Kelly green paint and modern furniture makes this room feel cozy and relaxed. The office area, which has painted paneling, is super cute, too. It makes me wonder, though, if a buyer could perhaps add a small second bath where the office is, as it appears to be a former porch area that was enclosed. Of course, don’t overlook that cat tree and bed: CAT LADY AND PROUD!
The single bath in this home is a rare bird — vintage tile in shades of blue paired with a taupe paint. With only a small window, I feel like this color combination is a little too dark for the space. Still, it’s paint! Easy to change! But please, leave that beautiful tile alone. It’s lasted this long, and it’s a wonderful selling point!
The backyard, which includes a large two-car garage and storage closet, has a great little lawn and a lovely back porch. It’s an enjoyable space for anyone who treasures time outdoors. Seriously, it’s the lovely finishing touch to a cute, cute house that is in a super hot area!
