A scorched residence in Nassau County’s East Rockaway has listed for $399,900 — with the asking price also coming with some very honest advertising.
The house, located at 9 Elbert Pl., barely survived a deliberate fire set by its former tenant Kevin Meyer in 2020. But what some may see as a jaw-droppingly damaged residence, others may feel the spark of potential — especially on a quiet street within commuting distance of New York City.
The listing photos depict a haunting scene: once-pristine rooms now appear in images visibly engulfed in soot and ash, which includes the kitchen appliances. A white bathtub is now black, a space with apparent shelves shows full flame damage — and, outside, the windows are boarded up.
That’s because, according to the East Rockaway Fire Department, on March 30, 2020 first responders found heavy fire in front of the home, and neighbors informed them that someone was trapped inside.
Meyer was then discovered unconscious in the living room surrounded by heavy smoke. A firefighter proceeded to drag him through the back door of the home until he suddenly regained consciousness and fought the responder, which knocked off his breathing mask. Meyer then went back into the heavy smoke and fire.
Two firefighters began searching for him again where they found Meyer in the basement. They dragged him outside and handed him over to Nassau County police officers.
Meyer’s act led to charges of arson, reckless endangerment and criminal mischief — and left the property in dire need of restoration.
However, the home’s listing representative sees potential amid the ruins. The outer structure and floors remain intact, presenting a canvas for ambitious renovators to start anew. Another posibility: a teardown.
The timing couldn’t be more crucial, as rising mortgage interest rates tighten the grip on New York’s housing supply. With rates hovering around 7%, homeowners are hesitant to sell, exacerbating an already dire shortage of available homes.
With just 14 homes currently on the market in the East Rockaway School District area, competition is fierce.
Despite apparent skepticism over the price tag for the three-bedroom, one-bath, over 1,300-square-foot fire-damaged property, real estate agent Brian Lewis of eXp Realty emphasized the value of location and potential.
The scarcity of land in the area makes rebuilding an attractive option for prospective buyers seeking the liberty of a blank slate.
“This presents a rare and great opportunity for someone to build their dream home in a great location,” Lewis told The Post. “In this area there’s not much land left in which to build a new home, so buyers have to settle for what’s already built.”
“Someone spends near $1 million to buy an updated home and still has to settle,” he added. “With this home they would most likely spend less than $1 million total and be able to build the home of their dreams.”
What’s more, multiple offers have poured in.
“One man’s loss is another man’s gain,” Lewis said.
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts or are experiencing a mental health crisis and live in New York City, you can call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the five boroughs, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.