
7 John Wise Ave #2 Essex — Photo 1 of 40
$965,000
7 John Wise Ave #2, Essex, MA 01929
Essex, MA 01929
Beds
3
Baths
2
SqFt
2,141
Style
Single Family
Built
1900
Once part of the 300-acre Cogswell Estate and family-owned from the 1630s through the 1930s, this exceptional home embodies the timeless beauty and character of a bygone era. Originally built as a hunting lodge, the home retains an impressive collection of historic details, including original antique floorboards, an oversized brick fireplace, magnificent post-and-beam construction, and beautiful barn-wood doors. Surrounded by mature trees and framed by historic stone walls, the property offers a rare combination of elegance, privacy, and a profound sense of place. Two decks overlook the broad, open lawn, creating an exceptional setting for outdoor entertaining, gatherings, or simply enjoying the peaceful grounds. Thoughtful improvements enhance the home's comfort and functionality, including four (4) Bosch mini-split air-conditioning units, an upgraded primary suite, new kitchen appliances, and a new 200-amp electrical panel. The residence is thoughtfully arranged across two wings. The principal wing encompasses the main living spaces, including the dining room, living room, library, kitchen, and breakfast area. The second wing provides private sleeping quarters and a spacious family room, offering an ideal separation between living and entertaining spaces. Most recently configured as a two-bedroom residence, town records recognize the property as a three-bedroom home, with the additional bedroom readily achievable through minor alterations. For those seeking additional living space, the dry, open and clean walk-out basement has high ceilings with cement floors and walls, offering excellent potential for future finishing or an ideal workshop space. Rich in history, architectural integrity, and privacy, this is a truly special property—an authentic piece of Old Americana with the character and presence of a distinguished country estate.
Market Value Analysis
* Analysis is based on 8 actively listed and recently sold comparable properties strictly within Essex, MA.
Property Details
Financials
Parking
Interior Specifications
Climate & Utilities
Building & Exterior
Property & Lot
Amenities & Appliances
Gas Water Heater • Range • Refrigerator • Washer • Dryer
Neighborhood
Shopping • Walk/Jog Trails • Stable(s) • Golf • Bike Path • Conservation Area
Geography
Floorplan Breakdown
Structural Layout
Dining Room
Lvl First8 x 10
Skylight, Flooring - Stone/Ceramic Tile, Deck - Exterior, Exterior Access
Kitchen
Lvl First13 x 8
Flooring - Wood, Window(s) - Picture
Family Room
Lvl First12 x 23
Skylight, Flooring - Wood, Deck - Exterior, Exterior Access, Open Floorplan, Slider, Closet - Double
Master Bedroom
Lvl First17 x 16
Bathroom - 3/4, Deck - Exterior, Exterior Access, Slider, Closet - Double
Bedroom 2
Lvl Second19 x 12
Bathroom 1
Lvl First5 x 10
Bathroom - Tiled With Shower Stall, Flooring - Stone/Ceramic Tile
Bathroom 2
Lvl First8 x 6
Bathroom - Full, Flooring - Stone/Ceramic Tile
Property History
$965,000
Aug 24, 2026
MLS® 73567650
$4,200
Jul 30, 2025
MLS® 73388142
$4,200
Jun 9, 2025
MLS® 73388142
Population
3,621
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B01003)
Median Household Income
$156K
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B19013)
Renter-Occupied Homes
25.4%
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B25003)
New Construction Permits — Essex County
992 housing units permitted in the last 12 months (-15% vs the prior 12 months) — 515 in 5+ unit buildings
U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (through Jun '26)
ADU Potential
Massachusetts allows one accessory dwelling unit by right in single-family zoning districts statewide (M.G.L. c. 40A §3; 760 CMR 71.00, effective Feb 2025). Estimated maximum ADU size for this property: 900 sq ft (the lesser of 900 sq ft or half the 2,141 sq ft principal dwelling).
Based on listing data, which indicates the property type — not the zoning district. Local dimensional, septic (Title 5), and historic-district requirements still apply. Not legal advice — verify with the municipality.
Listing Agent: Julia Virden
Listing Office: J. Barrett & Company
MLS® Number: 73567650
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