On The Market: Moorestown estate has its heart on the lower level

Randy Cherkas and his wife Cindy had their Moorestown home built for them, but a year passed before they made the decision that would give their home its heart.

"A year after we moved in, we completely finished the basement," Cherkas said. "It quickly became the hub of the house."

The enormous lower level is now Cherkas's favorite part of the home.

In addition to the mirror-lined gym with its own ballet bar, the space includes a children's play room that doubles as an arts and crafts center, a powder room and a "pub" room which includes a fully custom wet bar designed by Hartmann and Shiffer.

The home also includes a large master suite with a private fireplace, dual walk-in closets and an en-suite bath with soaking tub.

Cherkas said when they moved into Moorestown in 1999, the neighborhood was full of children – which was great for their young family.

"Our two kids grew up with other kids their age on all sides," he said. "As parents, that was tremendous for us, with so much in common with all our neighbors."

Having stayed put for nearly 20 years, Cherkas said they've seen the neighborhood grow and change.

"Now the new generation of parents has moved into the neighborhood and we see that happening all over again," he said.

Cherkas said with their children grown and away from home, the empty nester life has encouraged them to list the property.

"While we love the house, we are spending more time at the Shore during the warmer months, and more time away during the colder months," he said.

He said new owners would likely be drawn to the lower level, with its built-in entertainment center. But he said they might also find details like a second-floor laundry room and office – with its built-in storage areas – appealing.

"It's time for a new family to come in and enjoy the house for the next 10 to 15 years," Cherkas said.

The home is currently listed by Keller Williams' Sam Lepore for $1,425,000.

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