95 Riverland Drive

Even in a region abounding with creeks and marsh, try finding an available riverfront home removed from city traffic yet minutes from downtown.

It's not so easy.

But there are a few places. Take 95 Riverland Drive. It's in scenic Riverland Terrace on James Island. Although the neighborhood is near water, 95 Riverland Drive is one of the few houses that backs up to the Stono River.

The four-bedroom, 3,460-square-foot home, built about 50 years ago, is priced at $2,450,000.

"Actually, there's only about 20 houses (on the east bank on James Island) with docks," says Chris Anderson, listing agent and Realtor with Places Real Estate.

The house was renovated about 18 months ago with top-of-the-line kitchen appliances, granite countertops, wet bar with water cooler and icemaker and a dehumidifying system. It has the original hardwood floors. The living room has a working fireplace and sliding doors to a screened porch.

"It's a really open floor plan, great for entertaining," Anderson says.

Two of the bedrooms are downstairs and two upstairs. A room at the head of the stairs could be converted into an office.

The extra roomy second-level master bedroom is highlighted by large windows that provide striking glimpses of the river and beyond. "There's unbelievable views from up here," Anderson says,

Travertine floors and a sizable shower with dual heads mark the master bathroom.

The owners redid the kitchen and bathrooms, but the Realtor says the house still keeps its 1950s-era feel and character. There's a security system to provide extra protection.

The home is 10 minutes from downtown Charleston and also close to the James Island business district, which has "a lot more shopping and restaurants," according to Anderson.

Built on a half-acre lot on a bluff, the house comes with a big backyard and has clear river views from first and second levels. A wooden dock has its own boat lift. There's no garage but plenty of space to park in the front driveway. The property also has a small shed for lawn mowers, kayaks or other equipment.

Anderson says the dwelling has drawn interest from a variety of house hunters. "They run the gamut from people with kids who have a boat and want to be close to town; don't want a long drive to work in the city; or now live at Kiawah Island and want to be nearer to Charleston."

Riverland Terrace is known for its tree canopy, and the Riverland Drive house is no exception. Great trees such as live oaks dot the property. The house is situated at the extreme northern tip of the drive, which gives it a peaceful setting.

"The street feels private," Anderson says.

To locate 95 Riverland Drive, cross the Ashley River bridge and steer left onto Folly Road. Cross Wappoo Creek and turn right on Maybank Highway. Follow Maybank alongside Charleston Municipal Golf Course and turn right on Riverland Drive. Take Riverland until nearly the end. On the left is 95 Riverland.

Reach Jim Parker at 937-5542 or jparker@postandcourier.com

Agent: Chris B. Anderson

Office: Places Real Estate

Phone: (843) 442-2339

Philosophy: "Our team at Places Real Estate is committed to providing outstanding personal service, consummate professionalism and exceptional results to buyers and sellers of the finest properties in the Charleston market. Professional, sleek and effective, our boutique luxury firm enjoys a well-deserved reputation for bringing qualified buyers to the table, and we are well-versed in the requirements and nuances of luxury home marketing."

www.scplaces.com