Nearby and nice: Fontana gem offers possibilities

Address: 465 Fontana Drive
Neighborhood: Fontana
Asking: $448,000
Assessment: $376,000  
Year Built: 2002 
Size: 3,478 fin. sq. ft., 560 unfin.
Land: 0.41 acres
Agent: Lori Meistrell, RE/MAX Affinity Group,  434-296-0007      
Curb Appeal: 8 out of 10

With the Martha Jefferson Hospital joining other businesses on Pantops, the nearby Fontana community would seem a convenient location to put down roots. Just off Route 20 North, it’s a short drive to downtown, UVA, and all points along the bypass.

Many mature trees survived development of this undulating parcel, and subdivision amenities include a clubhouse, workout room, pool, tennis courts, and walking trails. Darden Towe Park is a stone's throw away for kids active in river paddling or sports leagues. And of course nearby Pantops Mountain provides stores, doctors, restaurants, and services, while in the other direction, a picturesque country road through horse country leads to vineyards, theaters, and historic landmarks. Those who call Fontana home don’t have much to complain about.

This handsome brick colonial sits atop a hill with views of the city. A secluded well-kept yard has a wood deck and play set, and a newly paved driveway leads to a two-car garage, with additional guest parking to the side.

Just inside the spacious foyer, the living room doorway is framed by columns and a stylized casing. Made for entertaining, the expansive living room opens to a dining room accented with picture-frame wainscoting.

The original eat-in kitchen is sunny, with warm maple accents, laminate countertops, and an array of windows and cabinetry— including a built-in desk. The center island’s small bar separates the kitchen from an informal dining nook with views to the woodsy side yard– though upgrades to granite and higher-end appliances would replace comfortable with “wow.”

Off the kitchen, a family room has a gas fireplace, and French doors open to the deck. A pantry, laundry room, bathroom, and storage closet lead to the garage. Walls are freshly painted in subdued colors, and oak floors throughout this level are in exceptional condition— all assuring an effortless move.

A formal stairway leads to the second floor’s four bedrooms and study. Families with kids about to hit the “tween” stage will find separate bedrooms a plus. The master suite, with high tray ceiling and mountain views, boasts a sizeable bath with jetted tub, separate shower, and solid-surface double-sink vanity. The remaining three bedrooms share a full bath in the hall.

Teenagers can lay claim to uncharted territory in the walkout basement. The current owners have finished the perimeter walls and laid Berber carpet, making it ready for some fab furnishings and decor. A full bath separates a workout area with natural lighting (that could be converted into a bedroom) from the adjoining space. Here is plenty of room for play: pool, foosball, or ping pong. By adding a few walls in this expansive area, an in-law apartment could be easily created with room for lounging and dining. French doors bring daylight into an ideal space for a kitchenette next to the bath.

This house is roomy without being cavernous. Buyers will find it is immaculate and ready for occupancy.

With the expected continued growth in the Pantops area and the potential of businesses like the CFA Institute moving into the old Martha Jefferson space on this end of town, purchasing a house this size in this location would seem a wise investment for now and the future.
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