S. Christopher Associates
North Easton, MA Rental Properties
ABOUT US
Brief history:
These properties have a rich history in North Easton and were both originally owned by the Oliver Ames Shovel Factory. They were built between 1852 and 1860.
The Oliver St. house was once a temporary shovel factory located on the opposite side of Shovel Shop Pond. The house was pulled by oxen across the frozen pond in 1852 to its current location. Once there, it was converted into a duplex for shovel factory employees and occasionally held guests of Governor Ames whose estate it neighbors.
11 Andrews St. was also built and owned by the Ames family and used for employee housing.
Philosophy:
Old homes should be preserved and enjoyed. These homes were purchased in very dilapidated states and in need of major renovation. Each house has historical relevance and deserved to be preserved as authentically as possible. Bringing a home forward in time is no small task and is best accomplished by committing to the idea of preparing them for the next 100 years. In that light, the outward appearance has been maintained but internally, these homes have all been modernized. Energy efficient technologies lower costs to the occupant without compromising on the look and feel of the house.
Why I have these homes:
I grew up in an antique home that was once part of the underground railroad in Indiana. My childhood home was full of hidden spaces, built-ins and uniqueness that you simply can't find in modern housing. Renovating an antique home takes a lot of time, patience and expense. My background in atmospheric science has informed my choices in upgrading the HVAC and insulation to lower the carbon footprint of these structures. These choices benefit the environment but also the occupant by lowering operational costs without compromising comfort. My homes have been fitted with ducted heat pump systems that quietly and discreetly do their job by heating and cooling the rooms at a low cost. These are features landlords typically do not put in rental properties because the equipment is expensive and the savings are passed on to the tenant. Hazardous materials have been removed and all of my properties have been certified de-leaded. Enjoy living in a true piece of history with the peace of mind that a cost saving, energy efficient and healthy home provides.