Historic 4-Bed, 1.5 Bath in the Heart of Midtown for $625K

This 4-bedroom, 1.5-bath home in midtown has everything: immaculate hardwood floors, restored woodwork, three fireplaces (including one in the master bedroom dripping in Pewabic tile), rock garden, claw foot tub, and professional-grade kitchen. The 1894 beaux arts beauty shines inside and out, with climbing ivy and a gracious front stair leading to oak double doors. Massive windows let tons of natural light into the living spaces. The open floor plan shows the beaux arts trademark of a hierarchy of spaces—the living room, sitting room, kitchen and entry are clearly "noble spaces," while the bedrooms and baths are more functional.

The kitchen has a gorgeous tile backsplash, apron sink, custom plate racks, and a full wall of exposed brick with a recessed arch over the massive professional gas range (eight burners, no waiting). The huge (yet inviting) dining room begs for dinner parties, for Thanksgivings. The first floor powder room is either quirky or a horrifying misstep, depending on who you ask. The ultra-precious ye old timey dental sink could really go either way, but it's a first-floor bath, and those come in handy, even if you decide to replace that one weird sink.

The bedrooms are expansive, light-filled spaces off a lovely central hall. The master has a delicious fireplace (all the Pewabic!) and an adjoining dressing area. The large, bright attic seems to have been used as an artist's studio at one time, and could certainly be used that way again, although a smart remodel could make it into a nice 1-bedroom or studio apartment for the savvy homeowner who'd like an income suite.

The location alone makes this place the quintessential Detroit dream home—it's literally two blocks from Woodward Avenue and in the center of Wayne State's holdings. Homeowners can walk five blocks to The Whitney for brunch (or to an equally convenient McDonald's, if that's more their thing). This home in the very heart of Detroit has every imaginable bell and whistle, an there's even a large project with the attic, should anyone want a project.—Rebecca Golden

·4835 2nd Ave [Zillow]