An iconic historic property in downtown Hightstown. Prominently situated along well-traveled Stockton Street (County Route 571), at a main gateway to the Borough, the Baldwin-Smith House offers approximately 3,800 square feet of versatile commercial and residential space, an attractive live-work opportunity, exceptional architectural character, and outstanding visibility.
Located within Hightstown’s Downtown Gateway (DTG) Zone, the property benefits from a broad range of permitted use categories, including professional offices, retail establishments, art galleries, restaurants, financial institutions, personal and business services, and certain residential uses.
Conveniently located approximately five minutes from New Jersey Turnpike Exit 8 and within easy reach of Princeton Junction’s NJ Transit and Amtrak services, the property offers excellent regional access to Princeton, New York City, Philadelphia, and surrounding communities. A standout feature is the driveway, offering the uncommon advantage of access from both Stockton Street and Railroad Avenue, complemented by on-site parking and an adjacent municipal public parking lot. The property’s convenient accessibility makes it particularly attractive for professional offices, specialty retail, galleries, and other commercial uses. A concrete access ramp further enhances accessibility.
Inside, approximately 3,300 square feet of commercial space feature 9-foot ceilings, imported 8¾-inch-wide yellow pine flooring, custom-milled trim matching the original historic profiles, and a preserved staircase with original pumpkin pine treads. Full bathrooms are located on both the first and second floors.
A separate 16' × 32' rear section, encompassing 512 square feet and featuring a full kitchen, offers residential functionality with the flexibility for potential commercial use. This versatile space presents opportunities for owner occupancy, a live-work arrangement, or potential rental income.
Dating to approximately 1770–1785, the Baldwin-Smith House is considered one of Hightstown’s oldest surviving dwellings and is recognized as a Key Contributing Resource within the Stockton Street Historic District, listed on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. Originally a private residence, the property later housed one of Hightstown’s earliest stores and became Hightstown’s first post office in 1819. In 1852, it was purchased by Rescarrick Moore Smith, New Jersey State Treasurer, and remained in the Smith family until 1944.
The property underwent an extensive three-year restoration by the current owner, formally recognized by a proclamation from the Hightstown Mayor and Council in 2008. The restoration thoughtfully preserved the building’s historic character while incorporating modern infrastructure and amenities. The exterior features premium cedar siding, low-maintenance synthetic trim, and professionally landscaped grounds highlighted by a magnificent mature oak and established plantings. An automatic sprinkler and drip irrigation system, served by a separate water meter, provides convenient landscape maintenance.
Extensive building improvements include three independent natural gas forced-air heating and central air-conditioning systems, high-capacity electrical service, updated plumbing, and more than 40 high-end, energy-efficient windows featuring aluminum-clad exteriors and wood interiors.
Combining nearly 250 years of history with extensive restoration, distinctive craftsmanship, flexible-use space, and a prominent downtown location, the Baldwin-Smith House presents an exceptional opportunity for its next owner.
Buyer is responsible for independently verifying zoning, permitted uses, and any approvals required for an intended use with the Borough of Hightstown Zoning and Construction Offices. Seller and listing broker make no representations as to the suitability of the property for any specific use.
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Listing Snapshot
Price
$899,000
Days On Site
232 Days
Bedrooms
2
Inside Area (SqFt)
3,800 sqft
Total Baths
2
Full Baths
2
Partial Baths
N/A
Lot Size
0.28 Acres
Year Built
1770
MLS Number
NJME2074400
Status
Active
Property Tax
$13,492
HOA/Condo/Coop Fees
N/A
Sq Ft Source
Estimated
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Recent Activity
13 hours ago
Status changed to Active
13 hours ago
Price changed to $899,000
13 hours ago
Listing updated with changes from the MLS
8 months ago
Listing first seen on site
General Features
Acres
0.28
Cross Street
Forman St
Foundation
Stone
Levels
Two
Parking
Off StreetPrivateDrivewayParking Lot
Property Sub Type
Single Family Residence
Sewer
Public Sewer
Special Circumstances
Standard
SqFt Above
3800
SqFt Total
3800
Style
ColonialFederal
Water Source
Public
Zoning
DTG
Interior Features
Appliances
Gas Water Heater
Basement
Exterior EntryPartialUnfinished
Cooling
Central AirElectric
Electric
200+ Amp Service
Heating
Natural GasForced Air
Main Level Bedrooms
1
Bathroom 1
Level - Main
Bedroom 1
Level - Main
Bedroom 2
Dining Room
Kitchen
Level - Main
Living Room
Office
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Exterior Features
Construction Details
FrameConcreteStoneWood Siding
Pool Features
None
Roof
Asphalt
Community Features
Accessibility Features
Accessible Doors
MLS Area
Hightstown Boro (21104)
School District
EAST WINDSOR REGIONAL SCHOOLS
Schools
School District
EAST WINDSOR REGIONAL SCHOOLS
Elementary School
Unknown
Middle School
Unknown
High School
Unknown
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Real Estate - Newtown
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