137 Stockton St, Hightstown, NJ 08520

Property Description

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.