1443 West BirchwoodChicago, IL 60626Price: $799,000

Stunning vintage dream home on oversized lot with a yard to get lost in. Current owners have lived in this grand old Arts & Crafts gem for 30 years, letting the house itself direct tasteful upgrades to suit their 21st century lives--and quite possibly yours. A driveway leads from Birchwood Street to the garage instead of alley access, allowing for plenty of guest parking for social events. A huge backyard garden planted with a variety of perennials opens to the neighboring yard for a park-like feel of grand proportions. It's a magical setting with gorgeous old trees for birdwatching and just 1-1/2 blocks from the lakefront. A "waterfall" wooden stairway leads to the back porch and the door to the elegant, perfectly appointed, kitchen with a Bosch dishwasher, New GE Microwave & Samsung range/oven capable of air frying and more, KitchenAid refrigerator, and a Jenn-Air range with grilling capabilities. These modern appliances are nestled comfortably among natural wood cabinets that complement the original wood trim throughout the rest of this beautiful home. The long dining counter that seats family while those engaged in meal prep looks out over the peaceful arbor that is the backyard. A nearby powder room provides plenty of storage. Pause at the front door for a glimpse of a foyer with an original mosaic tile floor. The living room is generously proportioned and features a well-maintained woodburning fireplace. Original pocket-doors reveal a vintage dining room, complete with original stained-glass windows. What an inspiration for large Holiday dinners! Head upstairs and imagine relaxing in the comfort of one of the three bedrooms, all nicely sized-- particularly the primary bedroom and bath. Wish there were 4 bedrooms? Go downstairs to the finished basement suite. Now used as an office, it could fare equally well as an extra living space or 4th bedroom (with its own contemporary full bathroom, with shower). Practical people, the current owners invested in a flood control system to protect their investment and ensure a dry basement. Luckily for you, it comes with a lifetime guarantee transferrable to new owners. Other upgrades include replacing all lead pipes and water service lines. Every inch of this outstanding Rogers Park home provides new surprises. Like the vintage wall-mounted dial phone that actually works! Or the sound system wired from the shelves next to the fireplace to carry music throughout the home. Or dial-up a/c system that splits the access to cool, clean, refreshing air. Top it all off with a cedar shingle "Shaker" roof, true to the original roof of the home.