19.5-Acre New Hampshire Retreat With Charming Post-and-Beam Cape and Exceptional Privacy

A Distinctive Country Property in Lyme, New Hampshire

A special real estate opportunity is available in Lyme, New Hampshire, offering an appealing combination of acreage, privacy, craftsmanship, natural light, and classic New England character. Priced at $495,000, this property includes approximately 19.5 acres surrounding a charming 1988 post-and-beam Cape-style residence with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and approximately 1,764 square feet of finished living space.

For buyers searching for something more distinctive than a conventional suburban home, this property presents an opportunity to create a private country retreat with plenty of room to enjoy the outdoors. The setting includes wooded areas, field and pasture, natural shade, and a secluded rural atmosphere. The house itself features beautiful natural woodwork, a dramatic curved staircase, skylights, double sliding doors, and a wood stove that contributes to the home’s cozy character.

The property also includes a large detached garage that needs work, creating an additional project for a buyer who wants workshop, storage, vehicle, or recreational space.

Rather than being a completely turnkey modern residence, this home is better viewed as a character-rich property with considerable potential. Its architecture and natural setting provide a strong foundation for improvements, while the nearly 20-acre parcel offers privacy and flexibility that are increasingly difficult to find.

Nearly 20 Acres of New Hampshire Land

The approximately 19.5-acre parcel is arguably one of the property’s greatest assets.

For many buyers, acreage changes the entire experience of home ownership. Instead of living on a compact residential lot surrounded closely by neighboring houses, an owner of this property can enjoy a much greater sense of separation and connection to the surrounding landscape.

The land is described as rural, wooded, secluded, and inclusive of field and pasture areas. That combination provides a variety of natural environments across the property.

Wooded areas can offer shade, privacy, wildlife habitat, and opportunities for walking or exploring. Open field or pasture areas can provide space for gardening, recreation, landscaping, or other permitted personal uses.

The listing also identifies approximately 459 feet of road frontage, giving the property a substantial connection to the paved roadway.

Anyone considering the land for agricultural, equestrian, recreational, subdivision, or additional building purposes should verify applicable zoning and permitting requirements before making assumptions about what can be constructed or operated on the property.

A Charming 1988 Post-and-Beam Cape

The home was built in 1988 and is described as a post-and-beam Cape.

This architectural style can provide a warm and distinctive appearance, particularly when paired with extensive natural woodwork.

The home’s design appears to emphasize craftsmanship and visual character rather than simply maximizing modern square footage. The curved staircase, exposed or decorative wood elements, skylights, and natural-light features help create a personality that is difficult to reproduce in a newly built standard home.

The residence offers approximately 1,764 square feet of finished living space above ground. It contains three bedrooms and three bathrooms, including two full bathrooms and one three-quarter bathroom.

With two levels, the home provides a traditional separation between living areas and private spaces while still maintaining several accessibility-oriented features on the first floor.

Beautiful Natural Woodwork Throughout

One of the strongest interior characteristics is the natural woodwork.

For buyers who appreciate craftsmanship, wood detailing can add warmth, texture, and visual depth to an interior.

Natural wood can also complement the surrounding New Hampshire landscape, making the transition between indoor and outdoor environments feel more cohesive.

Rather than creating an overly formal appearance, woodwork can contribute to a comfortable country-home atmosphere.

The existing materials also provide a foundation for future interior improvements. A buyer could preserve the character while updating lighting, flooring, fixtures, paint, and other finishes.

Maintaining original or distinctive craftsmanship can be particularly valuable when renovating a character property because excessive modernization can sometimes remove the very qualities that make the house special.

A Striking Curved Staircase

The curved staircase is another architectural highlight.

A staircase can be one of the most visually prominent features in a two-story home, and a curved design can create a memorable focal point.

Combined with the home’s natural woodwork and abundant natural light, the staircase contributes to the property’s distinctive character.

For buyers interested in interior design, this could become one of the central features around which the rest of the home’s aesthetic is developed.

Careful lighting, complementary flooring, and restrained furnishings could allow the staircase and woodwork to remain prominent without making the interior feel dated.

Abundant Natural Light

Natural light is repeatedly emphasized in the property’s description.

Skylights and double sliding doors help bring daylight into the living spaces, creating a brighter and more inviting interior atmosphere.

Natural light can make rooms feel larger and more comfortable while reducing reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours.

The double sliding doors may also create a stronger visual connection between indoor living areas and the surrounding property.

For a country residence, this connection can be particularly appealing. The landscape becomes part of the home’s everyday experience rather than simply something visible from a distance.

Cozy Wood Stove

The home includes a wood stove, described as a source of cozy warmth during colder winter evenings.

A wood stove can contribute both functional and aesthetic value to a New Hampshire home, particularly during the colder months.

The hearth area is also listed among the home’s interior features.

Buyers should inspect the stove, chimney, flue, hearth, clearances, and related components to determine their current condition and whether professional servicing or certification is needed.

For someone envisioning a classic New England retreat, however, a wood stove can be an especially appealing feature.

Three Bedrooms for Flexible Living

The property includes three bedrooms.

Three-bedroom homes can serve a wide range of household needs. A primary bedroom can provide a private retreat, while additional bedrooms can accommodate family members, guests, or home-office functions.

Because the house includes multiple bathrooms, the bedroom arrangement may also work well for visitors and multigenerational living.

The listing identifies a primary bedroom with an attached bathroom, providing additional privacy.

Prospective buyers should verify the current condition and dimensions of all bedrooms during an in-person inspection.

Three Bathrooms and a Primary Suite

The residence offers three bathrooms in total: two full bathrooms and one three-quarter bathroom.

The primary bedroom includes an associated bathroom, creating a private suite arrangement.

The listing also mentions a soaking tub, which can contribute to a more relaxing primary bathroom experience.

A primary suite can be particularly desirable in a rural retreat because it provides homeowners with a dedicated private area separate from guest or family spaces.

The additional bathrooms also reduce congestion when multiple people are staying at the property.

Spacious Living Areas

The home’s layout includes several traditional living spaces, along with a dining area and kitchen.

A character-filled country house benefits from having rooms that can serve distinct functions.

The living room can remain the primary gathering space, while a separate dining area can provide room for family meals and entertaining.

The home also includes a den, which could potentially become a home office, library, reading room, creative studio, or quiet retreat.

The ability to create dedicated spaces can be increasingly useful for homeowners who work remotely or maintain multiple hobbies.

Kitchen With Practical Features

The kitchen includes a pass-through design and laminate countertops.

Listed appliances include an electric range, refrigerator, washer, and dryer.

While the kitchen may not represent the newest style of luxury kitchen design, it provides a functional foundation for a future renovation.

A buyer who wants to modernize the property could consider improvements to cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, lighting, storage, flooring, and appliances.

However, renovation decisions should be based on the condition of the existing systems and the buyer’s overall budget.

For a property like this, preserving the home’s architectural character while improving kitchen functionality could create an appealing balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern convenience.

Full Unfinished Basement

The property includes a full unfinished basement with interior entry.

Although there is currently no finished living area below ground, an unfinished basement can provide substantial storage and utility space.

Depending on ceiling height, moisture conditions, structural considerations, local building codes, and other factors, buyers may investigate whether portions of the basement could eventually be improved.

However, unfinished basement space should not automatically be treated as future living space.

Any conversion would require professional evaluation and potentially significant work involving insulation, moisture management, electrical systems, egress, heating, ventilation, and code compliance.

For now, the basement provides valuable storage and utility potential.

Detached Garage With Additional Potential

The property also includes a large detached garage.

The listing notes that the garage needs work.

For buyers with vehicles, recreational equipment, tools, or workshop interests, a detached garage can be a major asset.

A large garage may potentially serve as a workshop, equipment storage area, hobby space, or vehicle shelter after appropriate repairs.

The condition of the structure should be carefully evaluated before assigning value to it. Buyers should inspect the foundation, roof, siding, doors, electrical system, framing, drainage, and any evidence of water intrusion.

For someone comfortable with renovation projects, repairing the garage could become an important part of the property’s long-term improvement plan.

Private Country Setting

Privacy is one of the defining characteristics of this property.

The nearly 20-acre parcel is described as secluded and rural, creating an environment that may appeal to buyers who want to escape dense development.

The combination of wooded land and open areas creates a diverse landscape.

For people seeking a weekend retreat, year-round country residence, or private New England getaway, the setting may be just as important as the house.

Privacy can also provide more freedom to enjoy outdoor spaces without the same level of visibility found in closely developed neighborhoods.

Field and Pasture Areas

The property includes field and pasture characteristics.

Open land can be useful for many different personal purposes, depending on zoning and site conditions.

A buyer might envision a large garden, orchard, recreational field, landscaped lawn, or other outdoor improvements.

Some buyers may also be interested in equestrian or small-scale agricultural possibilities. However, these uses should never be assumed solely because a property includes pasture.

Local zoning, setbacks, animal regulations, water availability, manure management, fencing requirements, and neighboring-property considerations should all be reviewed.

Wooded Land and Natural Shade

The wooded portions of the property provide another important component of the landscape.

Trees can create privacy, shade, seasonal beauty, and wildlife habitat.

For outdoor enthusiasts, wooded acreage can provide opportunities for walking and exploring directly from home.

The mature landscape may also contribute to the overall character of the property, especially when viewed from the house.

At the same time, owning substantial wooded acreage requires ongoing maintenance. Trees can fall during storms, trails may require clearing, and property owners may need to manage vegetation and access.

A professional assessment can help identify significant tree or land-management concerns.

A Potential Four-Season Retreat

New Hampshire properties often appeal to buyers who appreciate changing seasons, and this home has characteristics that could work particularly well throughout the year.

During spring and summer, the acreage provides opportunities to enjoy outdoor spaces, gardens, fields, and wooded areas.

Autumn can bring changing foliage and a dramatic natural setting.

Winter may highlight the cozy character of the wood stove and the warmth of the home’s wood interiors.

The result is a property that can potentially function as more than a conventional residence. It can become a year-round retreat centered around nature and privacy.

Lyme, New Hampshire Location

The property is located in Lyme, New Hampshire, a community known for its rural New England character and natural surroundings.

For buyers who value privacy and acreage while still wanting access to a recognizable community, Lyme can offer an appealing balance.

The area provides a setting where country landscapes, wooded properties, and traditional New England architecture contribute to the overall environment.

Prospective buyers should evaluate the location according to their own commuting, employment, shopping, healthcare, school, recreation, and travel needs.

Because this property is located in a rural setting, transportation and driving distances should be considered carefully before purchase.

Paved Road Access

The property benefits from paved road frontage.

The listing reports approximately 459 feet of road frontage.

Paved access can be an important practical feature for a rural property, particularly during winter conditions.

Buyers should nevertheless investigate driveway conditions, drainage, snow removal responsibilities, sight distances, and any applicable road-access easements.

The combination of a paved road and a large rural parcel provides a practical balance between accessibility and privacy.

Utilities and Infrastructure

The home is equipped with 200+ amp electrical service and circuit breakers.

The property uses private sewer infrastructure, while the listing indicates cable availability.

Heating is provided through oil-fired hot water, and cooling is not listed.

These systems are typical considerations for a rural New Hampshire property.

A buyer should obtain information about the age and condition of the boiler, oil tank, plumbing, electrical service, private sewer system, water supply if applicable, and other infrastructure.

Heating costs can also be an important factor in the total cost of ownership for a New Hampshire home.

Renovation Potential

The property appears particularly suitable for buyers who enjoy improving distinctive homes.

The house already has architectural character, so renovation does not necessarily mean completely reinventing the property.

Instead, improvements could focus on modernization while preserving the elements that make the home memorable.

Potential projects could include kitchen updates, bathroom improvements, interior painting, flooring refinishing, lighting upgrades, energy-efficiency improvements, garage repairs, landscaping, and basement organization.

The scope of work should be determined only after a professional inspection and contractor estimates.

Energy Efficiency Considerations

For a buyer planning a long-term renovation, energy efficiency may be worth considering.

Older windows, insulation levels, heating equipment, air sealing, and lighting can all influence ongoing energy expenses.

A professional energy assessment could identify areas where improvements may provide better comfort and lower operating costs.

Potential projects could include insulation upgrades, weatherization, efficient lighting, improved thermostats, heating-system maintenance, or other measures appropriate for the home’s structure.

Energy improvements can be especially valuable in climates where heating represents a substantial portion of annual household expenses.

Potential as a Primary Residence

Although the property has strong retreat characteristics, it could also function as a full-time residence.

The three-bedroom layout, multiple bathrooms, kitchen, living areas, basement, garage, and acreage provide the basic components of a comfortable year-round home.

The main-level three-quarter bathroom and hard-surface flooring are also listed among the property’s accessibility-related features.

For buyers considering full-time residency, however, the home’s current condition, heating system, internet availability, road access, maintenance requirements, and winter weather considerations should all be carefully evaluated.

Potential as a Second Home or Vacation Retreat

The property could also appeal to buyers seeking a second home.

Nearly 20 acres can create a strong sense of separation from everyday urban life.

The post-and-beam architecture, wood stove, natural light, and wooded setting reinforce the idea of a peaceful retreat.

A second-home buyer could use the property as a seasonal escape, weekend destination, or long-term family gathering place, depending on personal circumstances and local regulations.

Important Due Diligence Before Purchase

Large rural properties require more due diligence than a standard residential lot.

Prospective buyers should consider verifying:

• Exact acreage and boundaries
• Survey information
• Zoning requirements
• Potential land-use restrictions
• Road frontage
• Driveway access
• Easements and rights-of-way
• Property taxes
• Private sewer condition
• Water supply
• Electrical system
• Heating system
• Oil tank condition and ownership
• Roof condition
• Foundation
• Basement moisture
• Structural condition
• Garage condition
• Wood stove and chimney
• Drainage
• Wetlands or environmental considerations
• Tree conditions
• Internet availability
• Insurance costs
• Any applicable building permits
• Potential future construction requirements

The detached garage in particular should be inspected because the listing indicates that it needs work.

Financial Considerations

At a list price of $495,000, buyers should evaluate the property according to the complete cost of ownership rather than purchase price alone.

The annual property tax is listed at approximately $9,736, which is an important recurring expense.

Buyers should also budget for insurance, heating, maintenance, property management if applicable, landscaping, snow removal, septic maintenance, driveway maintenance, and repairs to the detached garage.

Large acreage can be rewarding, but it also requires ongoing stewardship.

A detailed household budget should account for both the home’s operating costs and the land’s maintenance requirements.

Property Facts at a Glance

Price: $495,000

Location: Lyme, New Hampshire

Property Type: Single-Family Residence

Architectural Style: Cape / Post-and-Beam

Year Built: 1988

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 3

Full Bathrooms: 2

Three-Quarter Bathrooms: 1

Living Area: Approximately 1,764 square feet

Total Structure Area: Approximately 2,772 square feet

Lot Size: Approximately 19.5 acres

Road Frontage: Approximately 459 feet

Heating: Oil, Hot Water

Cooling: None listed

Appliances: Dryer, Electric Range, Refrigerator, Washer

Basement: Full, Unfinished, Interior Entry

Garage: Detached garage, needs work

Parking: Gravel, 2 spaces listed

Exterior: Wood Siding

Foundation: Poured Concrete

Roof: Standing Seam

Outdoor Feature: Covered Porch

Land Characteristics: Country Setting, Field/Pasture, Secluded, Wooded, Rural

Electric: 200+ Amp Service, Circuit Breakers

Sewer: Private Sewer

Zoning: RD

HOA: None listed

Annual Property Tax: Approximately $9,736

Price Per Square Foot: Approximately $281

Road: Paved

Who Is This Property Best Suited For?

This property could appeal to a variety of buyers.

A country lifestyle buyer may appreciate the privacy and nearly 20 acres.

A second-home buyer may be attracted to the retreat-like atmosphere and distinctive architecture.

A renovation enthusiast could enjoy improving the house while preserving its natural woodwork and post-and-beam character.

A nature enthusiast may value the wooded acreage, field areas, natural shade, and rural setting.

A workshop or hobby enthusiast may find the detached garage particularly useful after repairs.

A multigenerational household could potentially benefit from the three-bedroom, three-bathroom configuration.

A long-term homeowner may appreciate having enough land to accommodate changing lifestyle needs.

Final Thoughts

This Lyme, New Hampshire property is the type of real estate opportunity that stands apart from a typical residential listing.

At $495,000, the property offers approximately 19.5 acres, a charming 1988 post-and-beam Cape, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, approximately 1,764 square feet of finished living space, a full unfinished basement, and a large detached garage that needs work.

But the numbers tell only part of the story.

The real appeal lies in the combination of architecture and land.

The natural woodwork, curved staircase, skylights, double sliding doors, wood stove, and abundant natural light give the home a distinctive personality. Meanwhile, the wooded acreage, field and pasture areas, natural shade, paved road access, and secluded setting create a private environment that can support a wide range of lifestyles.

This is not simply a house on a lot. It is a country property with enough land to provide a sense of space and independence.

The property does require thoughtful evaluation. Buyers should carefully inspect the house, detached garage, heating system, private sewer, basement, roof, structure, and land. The annual property tax is also a significant ownership expense that should be included in any affordability calculation.

For the right buyer, however, the property offers an appealing foundation for a long-term New Hampshire retreat.

With nearly 20 acres and a character-filled post-and-beam home, the opportunity is less about buying a finished product and more about shaping an existing property into something personal. A buyer can preserve the craftsmanship, improve the home’s functionality, repair the garage, enhance the outdoor spaces, and gradually create a residence that reflects a specific vision.

Whether imagined as a year-round home, private country estate, weekend retreat, hobby property, or long-term family getaway, this Lyme property offers an uncommon combination of privacy, acreage, craftsmanship, and potential.

Disclaimer: Property information, dimensions, acreage, taxes, utilities, zoning, condition, and other details should be independently verified by prospective buyers, their agents, inspectors, contractors, attorneys, and other qualified professionals. Any renovation, land-use, agricultural, recreational, construction, or other future plans are subject to applicable zoning requirements, permits, regulations, property conditions, and financial feasibility.

 

 

Listed on Zillow