INNER-CITY living in Fremantle with a garden and off-street parking is as rare as hen’s teeth, so this Essex Street house is unique.

Built on one of Freo’s first streets, this home’s in excellent condition, but needs to be brought into the 21st century.

Built in the late 1800s/early 1900s, this three-bedroom home has been in the same family for decades, and while it’s as neat as a pin, it’s had minimal alterations over the years.

Thick limestone walls ensure tranquillity inside, where a spacious 1.6 metre hall divides the generous street-facing bedrooms, each with its original coal fireplace, deep skirting and sash windows.

Carpet covers mature jarrah floorboards, which probably haven’t been walked on since the day they were laid.

In the huge kitchen the Meters wood stove looks like it was installed yesterday, new lino covers the jarrah floors, and the cupboards  – which were probably installed in the 50s – are freshly painted.

But with plenty of space to add an open-plan to the north-facing rear of the home, I imagine its days as a kitchen are numbered.

There’s also scope to go up a level to create a parents’ retreat, subject to council approval.

Even with an extension, there’d be room for a pleasant courtyard garden.

This interesting property has a heap of potential as a family home or a business.

Situated just off the Cappuccino Strip, there’s cafe and restaurants aplenty.

The Esplanade is at the end of the street and Bathers Beach a short walk away.

by JENNY D’ANGER

22 Essex Street, Fremantle
auction noon Saturday, October 20
Chanel Majeks 0403 246 377
Christine Majeks 0402 762 601
dethridgeGROVES Real Estate 936 1166