This is one of those Charlotte unicorns you read about in magazines, but rarely see on the market. We couldn’t be more proud to list this beauty for sale.

The Dutch Colonial house in the McCrorey Heights neighborhood just north of uptown is the perfect combination of rich history and modern style. It was built around 1917 for a barber and civic leader named J. Henry Warren. Warren helped choose the colors for Johnson C. Smith University (navy blue and gold), according to a story written about the home by the former historian for the Museum of the New South. Over the years, it has been home to many AME Zion ministers and other prominent members of Charlotte’s African-American community. 

For 5 Points Realty broker Megan Barnes it was love at first sight. “I KNEW the instant I saw it, it had to be mine,” Megan says. When she was looking for a home in 2009, she had strict criteria: it had to be within a 10 minute cab ride of uptown and the fun that surrounded it. She also wanted a home with some age and character. “I knew when I saw it online I loved it, even in its shambles. But when I saw it in person and drove through the McCorey Heights neighborhood, I loved it so much more. I saw so many cute homes, all with well-maintained yards, I saw how easily accessible it was to uptown and all the major highways and it literally just shone so bright to me. I saw and felt the area’s beauty before I knew anything about its amazingly rich history.”

Loan delays were just one reason Megan couldn’t snatch up the home right away, but it was just a matter of time before it was hers! She immediately poured herself into preserving the home’s classic elements and updating it with modern conveniences. Today, the house is an eclectic home and garden space that is welcoming and relaxing.

The home is surrounded by charmingly created places to gather for all kinds of creatures. The landscaping has contributed to the North Carolina Butterfly Highway and is a certified wildlife habitat. 

After you pass the Koi pond you’ll find this stunning southern front porch complete with a swing for sipping iced tea. At night, the fish share their water with birds and rabbits that stop by for a drink.

The natural light that pours into the living room shows off the stunning, original hardwood floors. Every inch of this home is welcoming. This area is perfect for snuggling up with a book or hosting a neighborhood game night. 

The kitchen and dining areas are flush with upgrades that complement the home’s original character. 

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the master carpenter-built custom closet. It has shelves, drawers and hanging space from floor to ceiling. In the corner there’s a spinning shoe rack (swoon).

The master en-suite bathroom is an urban oasis. Relax in the extra large jetted tub or decompress in the eight foot walk-in shower with dual shower heads and body sprayers. 

The backyard is truly a work of art. There are several different gathering spaces including a 10×15 deck and a professionally-installed swing hanging from the black walnut tree. Commercial grade lighting hangs above creating a romantic atmosphere for an evening party or late-night rest in the hammock. 

There’s also a 12×24 shed in the back for yard things that could be converted into an office or mother-in-law suite.

There is much to love about 1923 Oaklawn. Aside from the antique beauty and updated features, the neighbors are the icing on the cake! Many of them have deep roots in McCrorey Heights. They share a love of dogs, wildlife and plants and are just the most welcoming, neighborly people. 

It’s come a long way don’t you think?

Excellent job Megan renovating this amazing home! We live where we love.

If you’re interested in 1923 Oaklawn Avenue, the McCrorey Heights neighborhood or anywhere else in Charlotte, let us help you find your dream home. Contact us