
157 Main Street Essex — Photo 1 of 22
Recent Drop: $160,000
$765,000
Essex, MA 01929 — In Town
Beds
2
Baths
1.5
SqFt
2,123
Style
Single Family
Built
1885
GREAT NEW PRICE Endless possibilities and serene overland views top the list of highlights with this “almost” landmark 3-story building that dates to 1885 and borders the Great Marsh to the rear in downtown Essex. The former Ellen Neily Gallery for decades, this Mixed-Use Antique property with 2 decks that housed a retail gallery/shop on the 1st floor with residential space above and a 3rd floor attic – with Essex River views - offers new owners or developers exceptional flexibility. Use the 2nd floor living quarters with 2 bedrooms, full bath, kitchen dining and living rooms and to create a live-work lifestyle, use both levels for business or transform the entire 2,200 sf building into living quarters. Your options that include being an owner occupant, landlord, investor/developer go on forever. Extras: The 1st floor has a covered patio, the 2nd floor deck overlooks sprawling fields lined with mature trees and you have 3-car off-street parking.
* Analysis is based on 8 actively listed and recently sold comparable properties strictly within Essex, MA.
Gas Water Heater • Range • Refrigerator
Public Transportation • Shopping • Park • Walk/Jog Trails • Stable(s) • Golf
Flooring - Hardwood
Flooring - Hardwood
Bathroom - Half
Bathroom - Full
Was $790,000
Aug 14, 2026
MLS® 73538836
Was $825,000
Jul 21, 2026
MLS® 73538836
Jun 24, 2026
MLS® 73540713
Was $925,000
Jun 23, 2026
MLS® 73538836
Jun 19, 2026
MLS® 73538836
3,621
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B01003)
$156K
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B19013)
25.4%
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B25003)
992 housing units permitted in the last 12 months (-15% vs the prior 12 months) — 515 in 5+ unit buildings
U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (through Jun '26)
Massachusetts allows one accessory dwelling unit by right in single-family zoning districts statewide (M.G.L. c. 40A §3; 760 CMR 71.00, effective Feb 2025). Estimated maximum ADU size for this property: 900 sq ft (the lesser of 900 sq ft or half the 2,123 sq ft principal dwelling). Lot size: 4,848 sq ft.
Based on listing data, which indicates the property type — not the zoning district. Local dimensional, septic (Title 5), and historic-district requirements still apply. Not legal advice — verify with the municipality.
Listing Agent: Ann Rick Gloucester Group
Listing Office: J. Barrett & Company
MLS® Number: 73538836
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