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Listing broker remarks

One of Manchester-by-the-Sea’s prettiest homes, the historic Col. Israel Tappan House offers the rare combination of antique character, beautiful updates, exceptional outdoor spaces, and an incredible village location. Just moments from downtown, the harbor, Singing Beach, shops, restaurants, and the commuter rail, this is a home where you are truly in the heart of Manchester on one of its most beloved streets. Bright, warm, and loaded with character, the home blends original architectural details with thoughtful renovations designed for modern living. A beautifully updated chef’s kitchen is bright and sunny with breakfast bar, ample cabinetry, and Viking range. The dining area opens to an expansive deck, creating wonderful indoor-outdoor flow for entertaining, dining, or simply enjoying the landscaped surroundings. Formal living and dining rooms add charm and versatility, while large windows and southern exposure fill the home with natural light. Upstairs, the primary suite enjoys its own private deck and seasonal views toward Manchester Harbor, joined by two additional bedrooms and a full bath. A separate, spacious suite above the heated garage offers tremendous flexibility as an office, studio, or 4th bedroom and is complete with a recently added full bath. The finished lower level provides additional living and recreation space leading to a screened-in porch. Outside, the property is every bit as special. Beautifully landscaped grounds create a private oasis in the heart of the village, with mature plantings, multiple decks, a screened porch, and fire pit offering inviting spaces to gather, entertain, or unwind. Morning coffee on the deck, summer evenings around the fire, a stroll into town for dinner, or a walk to the beach and harbor, this is a home that captures the Manchester lifestyle beautifully. Historic yet comfortable, elegant without being formal, and exceptionally well located, 12 Bennett is a rare opportunity to own a truly special home in the heart of Manchester-by-the-Sea.— Compass

Key details

  • 3,016 sq ft
  • 4,704 lot sq ft
  • 4 beds
  • 3.5 baths
  • 1730 built
  • $712 / sq ft
  • $14,728 2026 taxes
MLS #
7⁠3⁠5⁠8⁠0⁠9⁠5⁠5⁠
Last updated
Address
12 Bennett Street
Town
Manchester, MA
ZIP
01944
Deed (Bk/Pg)
37040 / 198

Historic designations

National Register
Tappan, I. F. House · includes MAN.B
Local Historic District
Manchester Historic District
MACRIS Inventory
Tappan Barn - Bray House

What this means for buyers →

Map

Neighborhood: Manchester

National Historic Landmark

Federally designated as nationally significant — the highest U.S. historic recognition. Section 106 review applies to federal undertakings affecting the property.

National Register

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Owners may qualify for the 20% federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit on certified rehabilitation work.

State Register

Listed on the Massachusetts State Register of Historic Places.

Local Historic District

Inside a Local Historic District. Exterior changes visible from a public way require approval from the local historic district commission.

Local Landmark

Individually designated by the town as a local landmark. Exterior alterations require commission approval.

MACRIS Inventory

Documented in MACRIS, the state historic inventory. Informational only — no regulatory constraints.

Article 85 (Boston)

Subject to Boston Article 85 demolition-delay review, which can pause demolition of buildings 50+ years old for up to 90 days.

Ch. 91 Waterways License

An active MassDEP permit for a dock, pier, seawall, or other structure on or over a Massachusetts waterway. Many older licenses are not digitized; this record is provided for reference only.

Massachusetts Great Pond

A Great Pond under M.G.L. Ch. 91 — the Commonwealth retains public rights to fish and navigate these state-designated waters. Private docks and other waterfront structures require a Waterways License from MassDEP.

Likely Great Pond

The MLS listing describes this property as being on a Great Pond, which would be a state-designated water body under M.G.L. Ch. 91. GIS data did not independently confirm the pond name — verification needed.