BEFORE: 317 Meeker in South Orange
Vive la difference! 317 Meeker after renovation.
Last September, businessman and veteran house-flipper Usman Sharif and realtor Jill Sockwell teamed up when Sharif bought a mid-century split-level in the West Montrose neighborhood of South Orange with plans to transform it into a dream house.
Now, Sharif, Sockwell — and some happy new homeowners — are living the dream.
317 Meeker, which was in foreclosure, was purchased by Sharif for $225,000 last year and closed for $590,000, on May 12. Back in September, Sockwell had predicted that, based on Sharif’s estimates, the house would list somewhere “between $505k-$530k.”
With the help of architect Harold Tullis and a team of electricians, plumbers and contractors, Sharif expanded, updated and renovated the house, increasing its size from 1,828 sf to 2,740 sf, extending the footprint 15 feet into the backyard, raising the roof 10 feet to add a third-level master suite, adding a two-level deck, and opening up interior spaces.
The first-level expansion has allowed for a more open interior space and a larger, modern kitchen — plus a powder room. The new third-level master suite includes a sitting area, walk-in closet, master bath and its own private deck.
Other amenities: The master bath features a tub and separate tile shower with glass frame-less door, double vanity, and laundry. The basement is now finished, and the driveway has been widened to accommodate two cars. Sharif also added a wood burning fireplace with a tile surround and mantel in the living room.
The house now also features central air.
Sharif oversaw the construction while Sockwell, who is a real estate agent with Keller Williams Mid-Town Direct and a member of the Robert Northfield Team, helped in choosing details and finishes and marketing the property.
“We got the house under contract before it was even finished and went on market,” noted Sockwell. Because the new owners got involved early on, Sharif and Sockwell worked with them in picking out paint colors, tiles, and lighting.
Sockwell added, “The buyers were locals, a young family that was in a rental at Gaslight.”
Enjoy photos of the transformation by clicking on any image below. To see more “before” photos, visit here.
