From both inside and out, the house still has real charm. Structural work has been done to the foundation and roof to keep the house from further deterioration. It is easy to imagine the wood floors being brought back to their original beauty and much of the detailed molding is unspoiled. Still, a preservationist would need skill and extensive work on nearly every part of the house: plumbing and heating; plastering of walls' additional foundation work and leveling: electrical upgrade; roof; etc. One back section of the house, that most likely contained a kitchen, is completely gone. There are signs of what was once an upstairs porch, which were very common among Westport homes in this section, as they afforded views of the lake and a cool spot to sit or sleep in the summer months.

The property itself is quite lovely. There is a good back yard leading to woods and a very small stream bed. There is an old apple tree and the yard would afford privacy and shelter from traffic along the main street. It is a very easy walk to the beautiful Westport Library, the marina, the fabulous Westport Country Club and Ballard Park, for concerts in the summer and ice skating in the winter.

The owner is well aware of the fact that extensive renovation would be required to bring the "Plank House" back to a state where it can once again be enjoyed. Anyone presenting a good plan to do a responsible restoration can expect their offer to be looked upon very favorably.

Westport, New York $85,000

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