142 Tennis Avenue, Ambler
Have you been looking for a single family home in the borough, but feel that it is out of reach? If so, 142 Tennis presents a rare and wonderful opportunity for you. This three story home boasts gorgeous turn of the century character that not only makes a statement, but warms the heart. Details like the charming vestibule entrance, an absolutely stunning staircase presenting beautiful UNPAINTED newel posts and balusters, jaw dropping stained glass windows, and sweet Victorian arched windows on the third floor, are the essence of Ambler. Built in 1896, when life was simpler, yet harder, construction was done with care and pride using quality materials and respect for the craft; they simply don’t make them like this anymore. Why then, is a home of this caliber priced below market? Although it was well built and has been very much loved, it needs some updating. Will you want to renovate the kitchen? Yes. Has it served the owners well and functions fine? Also, yes. The bathrooms are dated, but in a vintage way, that I personally love. This truly is an amazing opportunity to secure a beautiful, character rich, forever home that you can enjoy immediately and put your stamp on, over time. Another huge perk is that this home backs directly to Ambler Borough Park!
You are welcomed to 142 by a sweet front porch, a must for borough living. Inside, you will find a vestibule that offers a coat closet and spot to drop your mail, keys, umbrella, etc. Through the vestibule, the foyer offers your first glimpse of the spectacular staircase and stained glass windows. When the home was built, this foyer was a beautiful place to receive guests, and it still is, however, we live our lives a little differently now, and this serves as a much more functional space.
To your left you will find the living room (currently used as a playroom) and will immediately notice the high ceilings and plentiful oversized windows that bring in tons of natural light. Many homes of this age tend to be on the darker side and very compartmentalized, however, that is not the case here, as there are bright and open sight lines from the front of the house, all the way to the back. The living room flows into the family room, but could be separated by beautiful, original pocket doors, if you’d like. On the other side of the family room, you’ll find the dining room. Obviously, these rooms can be used interchangeably to suit your vision, but the constant is how surprisingly spacious and bright these lovely rooms are.
Through the dining room, you will find the kitchen, which as I mentioned, is dated, but offers great storage space, gas cooking, the all important window over the sink, and funky, super retro countertops (think Fairlane Grill, if you’re local). There is a super convenient pantry/mudroom off the kitchen and a full bathroom, as well as access to the rear yard.
Take your time as you head upstairs to really appreciate the craftsmanship that went into this beauty, the detail is so special. The second floor offers three nicely sized bedrooms, all with ceiling fans, and bountiful natural light. You will be thrilled to see that the primary bedroom boasts a huge walk in closet. The full bathroom on this level is large, offering built-in storage and a vintage vibe.
Up another flight of stairs, the third floor is a very charming space. You will find two rooms, each offering eye-catching angles and storybook windows. There is a large storage closet on this floor, as well.
Down below, the basement is not what you would expect for a home of this age, as it is tidy and dry. There is tons of storage and bilco doors for outside access.
Outside you will find a very manageable yard offering room to relax, garden and play, but not too much to maintain. If you’re lucky, you may be able to be in this home while the fig trees are still producing! One of my favorite features of this home is the proximity to Ambler Borough Park, which is just behind the tree lined backyard. There isn’t much of a path now, but if you were to create one, you would find that it leads directly to an established park trail that takes you over a wooden bridge into the main park which offers plenty of open space, swing sets, a picnic table, access to the beautiful Rose Valley Creek, and is dog friendly. If you are a nature lover, you will certainly appreciate this natural park, and if you’re a lover of privacy, you will appreciate that your only neighbors in the rear are trees, birds and the occasional deer (among other forest friends).
The driveway offers parking for three cars and there is an oversized two car garage that boasts room for additional covered parking and storage.
This home offers central air conditioning and gas heat, both of which have been replaced within the past 6 years. The front porch was wisely rebuilt with maintenance free composite decking and balusters, keeping the character but eliminating the upkeep.
142 Tennis is located within the sought after Wissahickon School District, and walkable to all of the magic that downtown Ambler has to offer; amazing restaurants, breweries, and pubs; fantastic shopping and services; the historic Ambler Theater, a playhouse, and comedy club; the library, a cooperative grocery store, the train that runs from Philadelphia to Doylestown, and so much more. If that isn’t enough, Ambler hosts multiple street festivals and parades throughout the year and you can be at two of Ambler’s many parks in less than a two block walk. The taxes are low and most important of all, Ambler is a wonderful, tight knit community that is just waiting to welcome you!
This is a special home just waiting to start its next chapter with a new owner, will it be you?
142 Tennis Avenue ~ 4 bedrooms ~ 2 bathroom ~ 2,072 square feet ~ $450,000
