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Listing broker remarks

They simply don’t make homes like this anymore. Set in one of Reading’s most loved Birch Meadow neighborhoods, just steps from downtown, this turn-of-the-century Colonial offers 10 rooms, 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths and the kind of craftsmanship, scale and character that is nearly impossible to replicate today. The moment you step inside, the striking foyer sets the tone. Warm, welcoming and rich with architectural detail, it gives you an immediate sense of what makes this home so special. It’s not simply a pass-through space; it’s a beautiful introduction to the craftsmanship and character that continue throughout the home, and one of those details that feels even more special in person. Throughout, you’ll find 9-foot + ceilings, hardwood floors, ornate millwork, stained-glass windows, original cast-iron radiators, beautiful built-ins and substantial pocket doors, all reminders of an era when homes were built with incredible attention to detail. The large bedrooms continue that sense of scale, while a walk-in pantry adds both function and another layer of old-home charm that is increasingly hard to find. A walk-up attic offers exciting possibilities for future expansion, while two separate driveways provide added flexibility and potential to explore an ADU, subject to town approvals through oversized detached garage. Thoughtful updates over the years include a newer roof, replacement windows, new appliances, updated electrical and a new oil tank. And then there’s the location. You’re just moments from the Birch Meadow school complex and YMCA, with fields, courts, playgrounds and recreation practically outside your door. Downtown Reading, local restaurants, shops, coffee, the commuter rail and everything that makes this community so special are all within easy reach. It’s a location that allows you to truly become part of the neighborhood and enjoy a lifestyle where so much of your day-to-day life is right around you. Owned by the same family for nearly six decades, this home has been the backdrop for generations of memories and is ready for someone new to make it their own. Rich in architectural detail and ready for its next chapter, this is a home you need to experience in person to fully appreciate.— Classified Realty Group

Key details

  • 2,378 sq ft
  • 11,626 lot sq ft
  • 4 beds
  • 2 baths
  • 1900 built
  • $357 / sq ft
  • $8,946 2026 taxes
MLS #
7⁠3⁠5⁠7⁠4⁠0⁠0⁠6⁠
Last updated
Address
38 Highland St
Town
Reading, MA
ZIP
01867
Deed (Bk/Pg)
11805 / 363

Map

Neighborhood: Reading

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.