Veteran’s Day 2011 found me with some time off, so a trip to the Township Offices seemed in order.  Our goal was to find some original drawings or plans.  Or, at the very least the name of the architect.  The Ladies were very helpful and dug through what records they did have access to.  We didn’t find any plans, but we did find that the house was built in 1950 for one Benning Dexter, Professor Emeritus in the School of Music at UMich.  Professor Dexter was also the Chair of the Piano Division from 1961 – 1973.

The house was later sold to Bettie Mae Morrison for $1.00 around 1969.  Ms. Morrison owned the house until she died in 2008.  We think Ms. Morrison was also on the faculty at the University.  In the early 2000′s there was a water leak in the house.  While Ms. Morrison continued to pay taxes on the property, she moved out and the house sat vacant for about 10 years.

In 2010, the house was bought by Dave Moore of Canton Electric with the express intent of a quick restore and sale.  Moore reported that the house was a “hoarder’s dream”.  A car that had sat in the drive for the who knows how long, had sunk several inches into the ashpalt.  He also reported that he did find boxes of photos and random papers that he tried to pass along to someone.  A lot was lost as there was no family that could be found for Ms. Morrison.  We’re attempting to make contact with him to see if he would be willing to let us view what he has left.

Which brings us to 2011 and the Hickman/Felice family …

Completely remodeled and ready for new owners! New kitchen with stainless appliances, new flooring, stunning cabinets and counter tops. Wall of Andersen windows in front make for a bright and cheery living room and kitchen. All the mechanicals have been updated including: new sewer line, new gas line, new electric, new furnace and new On-Demand water heater. Lovely deck off living room and concrete patio off front help showcase the updated landscaping. Home sits on gorgeous 1/2 acre lot just a short walk to downtown.…

Compare with public facts

Stunning .54 acre lot in a very convenient and desirable location. Address is newport, house/lot faces side street, pre 100% at time of listing. Value in the land. Home is in need of massive repair. Probably not traditionally finance-able. Great for a builder, flipper or someone looking to demo and build new.