The home at 380 Upland Road spans more than 10,000 square feet, with 7,500 square feet in the main house and 2,800 square feet in the finished basement. It has seven bedrooms, five full bathrooms and four half baths.
Designed by West Chester-based Archer & Buchanan Architecture, the home was built in 2006 and conveys a classical design. Owners Michael Bailkin and his wife Billie replaced a previous house on the property to make a custom home of their own.
Known as Fox Hill Farm, the property comes with large equestrian facilities, including an indoor riding circle, a cross-country course and a 16-stall barn. Chester County and the Brandywine Valley have a history steeped in equestrian activities, and the property could draw a buyer who is looking to improve at riding or are already riding at a high level.
The outdoor space also has a 2-acre pond, a pool and tennis court. The property's “small” vineyard, which Michael Bailkin will miss the most, produces about 2,000 bottles a year of Gruner Veltliner, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc and Bordeaux Blanc varieties.
Inside the home, you can find a wine cellar, movie theater and a kitchen that can accommodate professional chefs and caterers. The house is ideal for people looking to host large events, said Michael, a real estate attorney in the New York office of law firm Akerman.
The Bailkins imported 200-year-old wooden floors from a French chateau, and installed them in the music room, living and dining rooms. The foyer features Italian marble from a former English manor.
The owners are looking to downsize and travel more now that their four adult children have moved out of the house, Michael said. The couple is seeking to spend several months internationally each year, also leading them to sell.
“There’s no use keeping a big place like that if we’re not going to spend as much time here,” he said.
The Bailkins plan to buy another home between Wilmington and New York, he said. They love the region and will choose a smaller home or rent while they travel. Their horses will be kept on a separate property, he said.
Michael believes the house would appeal to a local buyer who works remotely or could commute to areas like Philadelphia or King of Prussia. The home could also work well for someone who travels to Washington, D.C., or New York somewhat regularly, as he has done for years, he said. The third floor of the home has been converted into an office.