One of Thorold’s most iconic landmarks, Keefer Mansion, is ready to hit the real estate market.
As ThoroldToday reported, the city recently put out a call for real estate agents to list the city-owned building on the housing market.
Six agents applied to sell the iconic heritage site, and City Hall has identified Karen Blackley of Boldt Realty Inc as the lucky realtor for the job. Thorold real estate agent Serge Carpino at Canal City Realty also put a bid in but he came in third place.
Keefer Mansion, located at 14 St. David St. W, was built by Hugh Keefer in 1885. Throughout the decades the building has seen many different tenants and uses. Most famously, at one point the building was converted into a hospital, and later a long term care home. It is then no wonder that Keefer Mansion is considered to be one of Thorold’s most haunted properties.
In 2002, the property was at risk of demolition so the city bought it. A 30-year lease agreement was drawn up with Keefer Developments who, in exchange for affordable rent, committed to restoring the building to its original condition.
Earlier this year, Keefer Developments, voiced their intent to walk away from the property.
“In accordance with Council’s direction to Staff, the City terminated its Agreement to Lease Keefer Mansion, for the purpose of listing the property for sale,” writes City Hall in a new report.
While it looks like Blackley will get the honours of selling the mansion, the pick still has to be signed off on by city council during their Tuesday evening meeting.
"The City can decide to not sell Keefer Mansion," writes City Hall. "However, there are costs to maintain the property, and Council has previously directed Staff to terminate the lease with the previous tenant, for the purpose of selling the property. For this reason, Staff recommends awarding a contract for realtor services and proceeding to list the property for sale."
