RAYMOND – “Naturally Ever After,” this 180-acre property was called when it boarded horses several years ago, and the sublime pastoral setting evokes exactly that sense of storied peace and contentment. Ancient stone walls date back to the original farm more than two centuries ago, and town history mentions the presence of a gold mine on this land, which is the highest point in Raymond.

Truly, here is an equestrian’s dream. The seven outbuildings include a barn with 14 stalls, a big workshop, tack room, and hot water; covered riding arena; large hay-storage shed, and four-door utility/tractor barn. Paddock, electric fencing, a vast pasture, a pond, and miles of trails enhance the picture, and a new owner would have the opportunity to board the four horses (Duchess, T.J., Calvin and Simba) now in residence.

When built in 1986, the Colonial was noted by Down East Magazine as one of Maine’s first hybrid post-and-beam/conventional homes. Similarly noteworthy are the massive granite-slab steps at the front and back entrances, and the long stone walls that frame the inground pool and paved surround – stone dug from the property. Custom wooden gates are a sweet accent to this huge pool area, which is ideal for entertaining, and includes a multi-person hot tub on the covered porch.

Inside, the great room is beautifully bright beneath an exposed-beams cathedral ceiling, and has a Jotul woodstove with brick-wall background. The adjacent kitchen has been updated and features stainless, high-end appliances, extensive beadboard, box-beam ceiling, and lovely granite counters including island with gas range. Bedroom, bath, laundry, and a spacious office with built-ins complete the first floor; the newly screened farmer’s porch is a haven for fine-weather relaxation.

The second floor is comprised of two complete suites, set off by a door in the hall. At the front of the house, the primary suite – huge bedroom and bath, and deep walk-in closet with built-ins – enjoy particularly pretty views. The second/guest suite comes with a cool extra – a sauna. Also a cattle farm (Hill’n’Vale) in its recent past, the property lends itself to a range of uses – organic farm, raising other livestock, or even a family compound, if one were to build a second home (for which 50 acres of cleared land are available).

The home at 19 Farm Road, Raymond, is being shown by appointment by Bridget King of The Maine Real Estate Network. To arrange a viewing, please contact Bridget at 774-4224 ext. 212; 749-4791; or at [email protected].

Price: $990,000
Built: 1986
Rooms/bedrooms: 7/3
Baths: Three full
Square feet: 2,156
Garage: Two-vehicle, direct entry
Lot size: 180 acres
Taxes: $4,754

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Home of the Week is provided at no cost. Staff photos by Derek Davis.
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