705 Church Rd Wayne, PA 19087
Property details
About 705 Church Rd
705 Church Rd, Wayne, PA offers a rare chance to own a piece of one of Pennsylvania’s most historic estates. This 7,040 sq. ft. home is set within the renowned Ardrossan estate, a cornerstone of Colonel Robert Montgomery’s legacy. Originally known as Aeola, it was renamed Hopelands in 1929 under his stewardship. In 1930, famed architect Horace Trumbauer renovated the estate. Ardrossan’s heritage extends beyond its grandeur—it inspired The Philadelphia Story, based on Montgomery’s daughter, Helen Hope Montgomery Scott, later adapted into a Hollywood classic starring Katharine Hepburn. This home has been carefully stewarded by the family until now. Set on 14.4 of the most premium acres in Radnor Township, 705 Church Rd is surrounded by the pastoral beauty that has defined Ardrossan for generations. Thanks to the family’s efforts, the area retains its rolling hills and open landscapes. Today, with 160 acres of the estate now part of Radnor Township parks and nearly 300 acres under conservation easements, these breathtaking views remain preserved. Hopelands is framed by expansive green landscapes, maintaining the historic charm of Ardrossan and its surroundings. Entering the property on Church Rd, across from the renowned Chanticleer Garden, offers a dramatic first impression. A long, tree-lined drive leads to the stately stone estate. Classic details include a columned entryway, intricate moldings, an elegant front door, a second-floor balcony, period black shutters, dormers, and a circular front drive. To the right, beyond a split rail fence, golden fields of corn and endless vistas stretch across the property. To the left, horse stables, a tennis court, a detached garage with Carriage House, and a dramatic stone gateway and courtyard await. The driveway continues to a second entrance on Abrahams Lane. This 3-story manor blends Federal and Colonial Revival architecture with luxurious details evoking timeless elegance. Features include original stonework, intricate millwork, wide plank hardwood floors, and period fireplaces. The home’s distinctive architecture is reflected in its classical proportions, a warm foyer, and refined interior with large reception rooms, echoing the sophistication of early 20th-century Main Line estates. Public records list the home’s construction date as 1840, though parts may date back to 1720, with the 30-by-18-foot stone core likely built over a century later. The main level includes a living room, dining room, library, butler’s pantry, kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom, and 2 powder rooms. French doors off the dining room, living room, and library open to brick and stone terraces with sweeping views. The second floor features a spacious primary suite with a fireplace, sitting room, and 2 bathrooms, along with 3 additional large bedrooms and 3 full baths. The third floor is divided into two sections: one with 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath, previously used as a guest room and guest bath, and a music room; the other with 3 bedrooms and 1 bath, originally intended for staff. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a living piece of history in an extraordinary setting. A grand canvas for restoration, Hopelands at Ardrossan offers prestigious lineage, unparalleled acreage, and timeless design in one of the Main Line’s most coveted locations. Seize this extraordinary chance to become the next steward of Hopelands at Ardrossan—where history, elegance, and possibility converge.
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Summary
- MLS Number: PADE2079626
- MLS Name: BRIGHT
- Office Name: BHHS Fox & Roach-Rosemont
- Office Phone: (610) 527-6400
- Listing Agent: Karen Strid
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Last updated on: 2/6/2025, 3:20:50 AM Eastern. If you have any questions regarding the accuracy of this data, please contact us at help@rockethomes.com.
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![view of front of home](/homes/listing-images/51529430_S0366/S0366/S0366-R0100/803484159952/803484159952-1.jpg?version=1738783660&width=640)
$5,500,000
705 Church Rd
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Price information
Property sales
Date | Event | Price |
---|---|---|
Oct 06, 1997 | Home Sold | $9,623,916 |
Oct 06, 1997 | Home Sold | $3,499,110 |
Tax history
Year | Assessment | Property Tax |
---|---|---|
2024 | $2,148,156 | $43,432 |
2023 | $2,148,156 | $42,152 |
2022 | $2,148,156 | $41,255 |
2021 | $2,148,156 | $66,267 |
2020 | $768,112 | $26,720 |
2019 | $768,112 | $25,966 |
2018 | $768,112 | $25,457 |
2017 | $768,112 | $24,924 |
History based on county public records data.
Nearby schools
7
Wayne Elementary School
Public District KG-5
1.0 mi
•651 W Wayne Ave
7
Radnor Elementary School
Public District KG-5
1.8 mi
•20 W Matsonford Rd
8
Devon Elementary School
Public District KG-4
2.0 mi
•400 S Fairfield Rd
School ratings are a score out of 10, where 10 is the highest and 1 is the lowest.
Neighborhood
The neighbors living near this home have an average income of $182,212. Most Wayne, PA residents have annual incomes $200k+. Most families are married, no kids. Typical level of education for residents in this area is post secondary degree.
Frequently asked questions
About 705 Church Rd
This home is located at 705 Church Rd in Wayne, PA and zip code 19085 in the Villanova neighborhood. This 7,040 square foot home, which was built in 1840, sits on a 14.40 acre lot. Features: 9 bedrooms, 9 bathrooms. It has been listed on Rocket Homes since February 5, 2025 and is currently priced at $5,500,000.
In January 2025, from all listings sold in Wayne, PA there were more than 8 sold above asking price, over 7 sold below and more than 4 were sold right at the asked price. The number of homes for sale in Wayne, PA decreased by 10.9% between December and January 2025. Listings spent 49 days on the market in January 2025, and had a median list price of $905,125 during the same period.