Ballard Park in Bradenton is full of older homes in various states of condition, some nicely remodeled and some…. well, not so much. This home is one of the nicest. It’s loaded with atmosphere and has a great location right on Wares Creek. (It’s so nice, in fact, that it already has an offer.)

It dates all the way back to 1920 and has a slightly unbalanced look, with its semi-wraparound porch, that adds a lot of eccentric charm. You can almost picture Blanche Dubois lounging on a wicker chaise, mint julep—probably her second or third—in hand.

Inside, the home has an unconventional layout that speaks of many changes and remodelings over the years. The living room has wood floors and a magnificent fireplace; check out the brick chimney on the exterior. The kitchen is up-to-date and has a nice eating area. There’s also a formal dining room, complete with a working aquarium.

The home only has two bedrooms, but both are unique. The one on the main floor has a fireplace, cork flooring, a remodeled bath and a porch. The master suite occupies the entire second floor and is a large loft-like space with a vaulted wooden ceiling. Adjoining is a room sized closet, a modern—and most unusual—bath, and a sun porch that could be a den or office.

There is a modern pool, plus a two car garage. The property backs onto recently dredged Wares Creek. It would be hard to find a more atmospheric home anywhere in the area. It’s packed with charm and surprises—not for everyone, but if you like this sort of thing you won’t find anything better.

1728 Ballard Park Drive is priced at $437,900. For more information, call Uli Wills of Premier Plus Realty at (941) 275-5154.