A historic Charleston compound made up of two separate homes that are joined by a hidden courtyard has come under offer within hours of listing for $4.47 million.
Originally built in 1747, the two dwellings, which are tucked away in the heart of the city’s Historic District, recently underwent a meticulous multiyear renovation that not only restored many of the properties’ original design elements, but also outfitted them with many modern amenities.
Known as the Captain Francis Baker House, the property features two separate structures that are currently being used as a primary residence and guest house, connected by a beautiful series of courtyards that feel like their own secret gardens.
“The houses are arranged around a series of private courtyards that create a true hidden retreat in the center of downtown,” the listing notes. “Between the two buildings, a beautifully landscaped courtyard offers a serene, garden-like setting, while an additional rear patio behind the main house is designed for relaxation and entertaining, complete with a spa-style dip pool.”
Located downtown, the homes each feature just one bedroom, but that have a wealth of other amenities, including their own kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms, that allow them to operate as independent dwellings.
An historic Charleston compound made up of two separate homes that are joined by a hidden courtyard has come under offer within hours of listing for $4.47 million.Nick CannOriginally built in 1747, the two dwellings, which are tucked away in the heart of the city’s Historic District, recently underwent a meticulous multiyear renovation.Nick CannKnown as the Captain Francis Baker House, the property features two separate structures that are currently being used as a primary residence and guest house.Nick Cann
But while listing agent Robertson Allen of The Cassina Group knew that he had something special on his hands, he admits he had no idea the property would get such a huge amount of interest in such a short amount of time, noting that the sellers “had nine showings and two offers,” within hours of the listing going live on April 20.
“The house was priced properly and it is turnkey,” he notes. “Spring has been a very interesting time for sales, so I didn’t know if it was going to transpire that quick. My client didn’t anticipate it going under contract that quickly either.”
The recent renovation of the property, which saw a team of renowned experts called upon to overhaul the homes, only added to the allure of the compound, Allen adds.
“The sellers utilized Tupper Builders, Dufford Young Architects, and an interior designer, Susan Stacy, who they had worked with on other projects around the country, to create a very desirable product,” he shares.
Then there is the flexibility of the property’s layout, which allows for a future owner to create a truly unique residence—one that could potentially generate significant income, if they wish to use the guesthouse property as a rental.
“That part of King Street is very desirable,” Allen notes. “My client used the Front House as a guest house. It has a beautiful courtyard behind it.
“The Back House was used as the primary residence. It has an open flow with wonderful natural light that has a private courtyard and a plunge spa that my client really enjoyed.”
The rear property in the compound is currently being used as the primary residence. Nick CannBoth of the homes offer separate living areas, gourmet kitchens, and full bathrooms. Other highlights include custom millwork, built-ins, casement doors, and two fireplaces.Nick CannThere is a maze of courtyards connecting the two homes that feel very much like a secret garden. Nick Cann
However, a future owner could choose to use the property in all manner of ways, either as a primary residence, a vacation home, or as a rental opportunity.
“It is set up as a lock and leave if you wanted to use it as a secondary residence,” Allen adds. “Or you could live in one residence full-time and use the other as a guest house.”
Both of the homes offer separate living areas, gourmet kitchens, and full bathrooms. Other highlights include custom millwork, built-ins, casement doors, and two fireplaces.
“Gated entry, timeless architectural elements, and an unparalleled location South of Broad just steps from Charleston’s finest dining, shopping, and cultural landmarks complete this special property,” the listing adds. “A truly versatile historic property in one of the city’s most coveted settings.”
According to Allen, the area surrounding the home is particularly “hot” right now, and its location within a partial X flood zone means that it faces just a 0.2% to 1% risk of flooding—further adding to its longevity.
“The downtown Charleston market is red hot,” he says. “It’s hotter than any submarket. This home is also ideally located in a partial X flood zone that gets you out of harm’s way for the potential of flooding.”
And then there’s is the home’s rich history, which, according to Charleston Magazine, dates back to the 1730s, when construction on the home originally began.
It was built for local merchant Captain Francis Baker, who was reportedly one of the Holy City’s earliest executioners, the publication notes.
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