Historic Prospect Hill Estate: 17± Acres of Timeless Charm and Income Potential

Historic Prospect Hill Estate: 17± Acres of Timeless Charm and Income Potential

Discover the enchanting Prospect Hill Estate, a sprawling 17±-acre property steeped in Hollywood history and offering a unique blend of residential, commercial, and income-generating opportunities. Built in 1905 by vaudeville star, actor, and silent movie producer Billy B. Van—famous for his on-screen persona Patsy Bolivar—this estate was once his gentleman farmer's retreat, complete with a dairy farm on 300 acres. Van named the main house "Bolivar’s Rest" and even established a film studio on nearby Lake Sunapee, where legends like Mae West, Charlie Chaplin, and Fatty Arbuckle reportedly attended lavish parties. Over the decades, the barns evolved from a chicken farm in the 1930s to a dance hall ("Castle Heights") in the 1940s, a summer stock theater (Lake Sunapee Playhouse) in the 1950s, and a riding academy in the 1970s. Since 1977, the property has thrived as a renowned antiques business under owners Ron and Barbara Sullivan, housing a 12,000 sq. ft. barn filled with treasures for over 40 years. Now, this versatile gem awaits its next chapter—perfect for entrepreneurs, equestrians, artists, or those seeking a historic haven with modern revenue streams.

Main Residence: Grand Victorian House

At the heart of the estate stands the majestic historic Victorian house, a three-story masterpiece boasting 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and timeless elegance. Features include gleaming hardwood floors, plush carpeting, high ceilings throughout, a spacious dining room ideal for gatherings, a massive fireplace as the focal point of the living area, and wrap-around covered porches perfect for enjoying the serene countryside views. With three floors of finished living space, this home offers ample room for family or guests. Currently configured as a residential rental (between tenants), it presents immediate income potential or the opportunity for personal occupancy.

Additional Residences: Steady Rental Income

House on the Barn Side (Across the Street): A cozy 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom rental that's fully occupied, adding to the property's established income stream from long-term tenants.

Outbuildings: Expansive Storage, Workshops, and Commercial Spaces

The estate's outbuildings are a treasure trove of functionality, currently generating revenue through storage rentals, workshops, and retail operations—ideal for antiques dealers, craftsmen, or storage businesses.

Antique Barn (10,000+ sq. ft.): This historic barn, originally built by Billy B. Van, now serves as a multifaceted hub:

Paid indoor and outdoor storage for boats, collector automobiles, furniture, and personal goods.
Dedicated hardware workshop, frame restoration workshop, and office space.
Thriving antique furniture retail space with online sales activity, offering a turnkey business opportunity.

Metal Building (8,000 sq. ft.): A versatile structure housing:

Paid storage for furniture and personal goods.
Antique restoration workshop.
Woodworking shop specialized in creating structural building components.

Additional Storage (Old Piggery, 700 sq. ft.): Currently rented out for storage, providing extra passive income.

Nestled in a picturesque setting near Lake Sunapee, this property combines rich history with practical modern uses, including potential for equestrian activities, events, or expanded retail. Whether you're drawn to its fascinating past or its proven income from rentals and storage, (with retail business continuity possible), Prospect Hill offers endless possibilities

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