On The Market: A trinity to turn dividends in Bella Vista
Matt Skilton had owned a home in Queen Village since 2006, but was always intrigued by properties in nearby Bella Vista.
"I had noticed positive changes to South Street and Bainbridge between 5th and 8th streets, specifically with the addition of more restaurants and solid retail," he said. "I had friends who owned homes in Bella Vista and I was always surprised at the difference in pricing between Queen Village and Bella Vista, even though it was only a few blocks away."
In November 2012, he and his then-girlfriend (now wife) decided to make an investment in the blossoming neighborhood.
"After seeing the upgrades to South Street in terms of retail and food options I thought it would be a perfect location for a single business person or young couple," he said.
In addition to the ideal location, Skilton said he was lucky that the home was in near-perfect condition when he purchased it.
"The prior owner had upgraded the kitchen and bathroom, so there was not a lot that needed to be done," he said.
In typical trinity style, the home has a total of 853 square feet over four floors. The single bedroom occupies the top floor, a bathroom with custom glass shower and a separate den occupies the second, and the first floor features an open kitchen with built-in seating. The lower level has been finished as a living room.
"Being a smaller house and one that is not in the need of any updates," Skilton said, "you can concentrate on the fun aspects of the neighborhood and not worry about the house."
Of course, trinity living – with its narrow but tall rooms and spiral stairs – can be something of an acquired taste.
Skilton has been a trinity owner himself. "One needs to love the multi-floor living and those ever-fun, tricky spiral stairs," he said. "At the time of purchase I lived in a trinity on American Street, so I was familiar with navigating the stairs, but it's not for everyone."
Given the strength of the market, Skilton and his wife have decided now is the time to sell. Additionally, a recent move to Northern Liberties has taken them farther from Bella Vista, making it more difficult to check in when tenants have requests.
"We decided to sell now based upon the overall real estate market growth," Skilton said.
The home is currently listed by Suzie Swisher of the Dominic Fuscia Team at Coldwell Banker Preferred for $275,000.