Historic Williamsburg area (Richmond, Yorkshire, Victoria: for sale, big home, neighborhoods)

[cale33]

I am planning to move to Williamsburg in the spring, but all the houses I see for sale are in subdivisions. I'm a history buff and I'd like to live where I can walk to Colonial Williamsburg, go to the farmer's market on Sat, etc. I've seen beautiful houses near that area but never see them for sale. My budget is a million or more. I'd like something gorgeous where I can have fellow historians over for tea.

[Aibutiej]

I don't have a million dollars but I too wonder if there are houses in Williamsburg that are not in a subdivision. And, cale33, I am hoping to move there in the spring also. Maybe I'll be able to walk by your gorgeous house and enjoy its beauty and the area.

[cale33]

Thank you for your kind words. I'm old and have scrimped and saved. Every time I talk to a Realtor, all I hear is "Governor's Land" and "Kingsmill." GL has a book of rules so thick you could get a hernia lifting it. If I want to plant some vegetables, I don't want someone telling me I can't. The houses near the historic area seem to be hidden under some well-kept secret, and no one seems to know anything about them -- or they aren't telling. Maybe your ancestors have to have owned a James River plantation.

[Mr Williamsburg]

I know what you are seeking. I get asked this question quite often.There are numerous subdivisions within a short walk to Colonial Williamsburg and William and Mary. Most of the homes were built from the late 1980’s and onward. The oldest homes sold that I can find a record of in the last 10 years were all built after 1900. You have to realize when Colonial Williamsburg was restored in the 1930’s.the town was in pretty bad shape. That was the reason Rev. Goodwin wanted to save the town. He saw it disintegrating…
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation owns most if not all of the homes in the restored area. Two of the homes sold that were early 1900’s were owned by them.
There are a variety of newer neighborhoods within walking distance to the restored area of Colonial Williamsburg and William and Mary. Port Anne, Holly, Walnut Hills, Yorkshire, Rich Neck Heights, Indian Springs, The Woods, Counselors Close, Richmond Hill are just a few of these neighborhoods. Walnut Hills is the only one with older homes dating from the 1930’s and up. Prices will range from $500k to $1,800,000. Although the homes are not older most are Colonials. Some more traditional than others with historic touches throughout

[Ginger07]

The homes in the historic area are usually rented rather than bought. You do have to be a CW employee to be in one, however. There's even more rigid rules there than any of the communities since everything has to be kept historically correct. I don't know if anything is for sale back there, but if you look right between Merchants Square and campus there is a small neighborhood hidden by trees. Not big homes if I remember right, but you can always build on to one.

[cale33]

Thank you very, very much for this information. I will investigate the houses and the subdivisions. I've always wondered about that Victorian that is privately owned and smack in the middle of CW. The last time I saw it, it was badly in need of restoration. Thanks again.

[Mr Williamsburg]

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation currently has one home for sale located on Scotland Street. Built in 1935. 2530 square feet . Two blocks from Duke of Gloucester St and Merchants Square.

[cale33]

Thanks again. I've studied the two for sale on Scotland Street. They're in a good location, but not especially nice houses. I don't think the foundation would allow drastic interior changes to either of them. I have spent hours studying what you sent me, along with maps. Richmond Hill looks especially good.

[tcocktail]

There is a beautiful home in Richmond Hill on the market for $898,000. If you need a realtor let me know. Good luck