379 N Fullerton Ave⋅Upper Montclair, NJ

Coastal serenity is embodied in this charming Sky Blue center hall colonial nestled in the popular and centrally accessible North of Watching (Norwatch) neighborhood. With a rich history spanning 60-years under one family's care, this home exudes warmth and coastal/nautical character. Boasting five bedrooms, an expanded chef's kitchen, and tasteful updates throughout, it offers comfort and functionality for modern living. Washer/Dryer in the basement and a second set located in the primary bathroom.The attached two-car garage with electric charging station and three-season outbuilding add convenience and versatility to the large corner lot. Beautiful landscaping enhances the curb appeal, creating a picturesque setting. Ideal for growing families or those seeking ample space, the finished basement and three floors offer endless possibilities. Are you ready to write the next chapter in this home's story?

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OWNER'S STORY

Stephanie’s parents bought this house in 1965 and Steph and her siblings grew up here. It was always full of music— blasting from all our various stereos. While the house overflowed with life and happiness, it always felt that it had unfulfilled potential. When we were dating in college in the 1970’s, we would come here on breaks, walk around the house, and dream about all the updates we would make if we owned the home.

After college, we moved to coastal Massachusetts, and we visited Steph’s parents frequently. During our Massachusetts years, we had our first child and purchased our first home. It was a phenomenal Revolutionary era house, with 200 years of history, yet 379 North Fullerton always felt more like home and embodied our history and vision for the future.

One day we called Steph’s parents to tell them that we were thinking of returning to the Montclair area. They informed us that, coincidentally, they were about to call us because they had purchased a beachfront condo in Florida. “Don’t sell the house to anyone else!” we cried. “We’ll take it!” We bought the house from them in 1990 and grew into it gradually. We raised two sons here. It was wild to have them attend the same schools Steph did (sometimes with the same teachers), live in the same bedrooms Steph grew up in, and trick-or-treat at the same houses on Aubrey and Carolin.

Those updates we dreamed of? We accomplished them all—and more—over the next three decades. With every renovation and addition, it was our passion and mission to bring out the full potential of the house that had brought us so much comfort. We wanted it to be the best house it could be while keeping it true to its original colonial style.

We also wanted to incorporate the coastal serenity that we fell in love with while in Massachusetts. You will notice nautical elements and spirit as you walk through the home. This is our homage to the feel of New England. Now that we’re both retired, we’re heading back up north to the Massachusetts coast to enjoy a simpler lifestyle. We will always be grateful to 379 North Fullerton for being a psychological refuge all these years. It’s our fervent hope that it will bring peace and joyful memories to its new owners.

-Mark & Steph