412 South Ridgewood Road

***Dear Future Homeowners,***

*I know this is long, but I have had 54 years to love this house and this community—South Orange and Maplewood. They are two different towns, but one community.*
We bought this house in 1972. It was our starter house. I liked it, but whenever I visited other houses, I thought I wanted something bigger. Yet here I am, 54 years later. It has served me well, and I have many cherished memories that I will take with me as I pass this home on to you—so that you can create your own legacy.
Welcome to South Orange. It is a special place that offers all the finest advantages and services you can imagine, along with wonderful neighbors who truly care about one another. This is a neighborhood that celebrates together. From births to graduations to weddings, we are there for each other. And when times are tough, we are there too—cooking meals, driving each other where needed, and lending support. I have to mention the Christmas cookies from Barbara across the street. I still keep her “cookie tin” with me in hopes of continuing to receive her cookies.
My two children were both born, raised, and married from this house. Over the years, countless parties and traditions began here. There was the Annual After-Thanksgiving Dinner Trivial Pursuit Dessert Party where everyone was welcome. The Yearly Pig-Out Party—held on the last Saturday of the holiday season—brought about sixty people together to indulge in chocolate desserts and international coffees as we bid the holidays farewell until the next year. From birthdays for my kids and now my grandkids, to family gatherings and even repasts, this house has seen it all. We shared it with two dogs, three cats, two goldfish, one guinea pig, and a hermit crab—not all at once, but some along the way.
The deck has probably always been my favorite spot. The minute it turns warm, I sit in my rocking chair and listen to everything around me. Past summers were filled with barbecues or quiet dinners for two outside. It was always the perfect way to end a busy day on a summer evening. Even now, I sit there just to watch the flowers and tomatoes grow.
We are so lucky to live close to New York. In only about 30 minutes—by car or train—you can be in the city. Over the years, we’ve welcomed many guests: my kids’ college roommates, international colleagues, and friends. The proximity to NYC has always made this house appealing, and somehow, there has always been room for one more.
Being equidistant to both towns meant we could walk to The Reservoir in South Orange for pizza, or to St. James Gate in Maplewood for a burger. Both towns offer terrific restaurants and shops to explore—less than half a mile in either direction.
Right down the street is a wonderful cluster of shops: Renaissance Consignment, where Nancy will help you find a designer outfit for a fraction of the price; The Framing Mill, where Rick ensures your framing is perfect; SOMA Sounds with vintage records; The Valley Vintage Annex for treasures; Milk Money for children’s consignments; West Village for teens and beyond; A Paper Hat for art supplies; and even a vegan bakery. Farrell Field is just at the bottom of Lenox or Audley Streets, with a playground, baseball field, and two tennis courts—only a block away.
True, this is just a house with four walls, good bones, and a great location. But you will be the ones to fill it with laughter, giggles, tears, and—most importantly—love. You will make it more than a house. You will make it a home—your home.
*I wish you all the happiness and good things that life here can hold.*
*From the Current Homeowner,*
*Arlene Hirst*

Reel ESTATE

Overflowing with charm, this inviting South Orange home offers the perfect blend of character, comfort, and convenience. With its beautiful curb appeal and prime location close to both South Orange and Maplewood downtowns, you'll love being just minutes from shops, dining, parks, and the train. Inside, the first floor welcomes you with a sun-drenched living room and cozy sunroom ideal for relaxing with a book or morning coffee. The formal dining room is ready for gatherings big and small, while the kitchen is bright and cheery. Step outside to enjoy a sizable deck and a sweet backyard oasis that's perfect for barbecues, gardening, or simply unwinding. Upstairs, three comfortable bedrooms and a full bath provide peaceful retreats. The third-floor attic and unfinished basement with half bath, offer incredible storage and future potential for expanded living space. On the market for the first time in 54 years, this is a home that feels warm the moment you arrive ready to welcome its next chapter.

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