What could be more exciting than buying your first home? The answer to that question depends on where you’re coming from! Whether you’re looking for your first home or you’ve done it before, the fact of the matter remains the same: A house purchase is a big deal, and it’s not something to be taken lightly. With Thanksgiving just behind us, I had a moment to reflect on my hometown of North Providence, RI.
A Rhode Island Native, I am proud to say that North Providence is my hometown. I grew up across the street from the old Geneva fire station on Douglas Avenue in the Town of North Providence. As a child, I always enjoyed being close to my schools – Stephen Olney for Elementary, Birchwood for Junior High, and Davies for High School. You can say that North Providence is in my blood, so I am happy to help you on your journey to homeownership.
There are so many wonderful things about North Providence. Over the years, I’ve watched it flourish and grow, from newly built complexes and elementary schools to thriving new businesses lining Mineral Spring Avenue. This thriving community makes it one of the best places in RI to find a home. If you’re looking to move, there are several important things to keep in mind while looking at homes in North Providence, RI – particularly if you want to find the best one possible – so let’s look at some of them below.
A little history
The Town of North Providence, Rhode Island, was settled in 1636 but not incorporated as a town until 1765 and originally included parts of Providence and Pawtucket. In fact, when Samuel Slater founded the Slater Mill in 1793, it was initially part of North Providence. It wasn’t until 1874 that the eastern section of North Providence, including Slater Mill, became Pawtucket. As a result, North Providence officially became the smallest town in the smallest state.
Early settlers built now historic houses, including the Joseph Smith House and others listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Centuries of living are evident in colonial architecture and historical monuments, so you’ll find lots of charm and history nestled among modern construction, buildings, homes, and amenities.
While just short of 6 square miles, the Town of North Providence may be the smallest town in the smallest state, but it still offers a lot to potential homeowners! With easy access to Providence, Johnston, Smithfield, Lincoln, and Pawtucket, it’s a great choice for those who want to live in a small town with suburban flair and character but commute to the bigger cities for work.
A great place to live
North Providence, whose slogan is “growing with greatness,” is one of RI’s most populated communities. North Providence is full of terrific amenities, parks, and attractions that make it a great place to live and raise a family. In fact, the town was ranked among one of the Best Places to Live in America by Money Magazine and dubs itself “the gold standard of small town living.” Our Lady of Fatima Hospital and other nearby medical centers bring integrated health care to the region, and the New England climate allows for four seasons of diverse recreation options.
The town has two major parks, Stephen Olney Memorial Park and Governor John A. Notte Memorial Park, which host many festivals and events throughout the year. It has excellent hiking trails, recreational facilities, a freshwater beach, and a campground. Schools in North Providence are highly rated, with eight elementary schools, three middle schools, and two high schools. Both Stephen Olney Elementary and McGuire Elementary were recently torn down and rebuilt, showing that North Providence is dedicated to providing quality education opportunities.
Called “the gold standard of small town living,” North Providence prioritizes public safety and recently completed a brand new, state-of-the-art public safety complex, bringing together the Police and Fire Departments and municipal court. They also have the only Insurance Service Organization (ISO) Class 1 Fire Department in the state, one of only 64 nationwide.
Though fairly kicked back throughout the week, you can see a lot more activity and excitement during weekends and holidays. Some fun and notable events include the Summer-Autumn Farmer’s Market, Mayor Lombardi’s Annual Fishing Derby, The Memorial Day Parade Celebration & Festival, Independence Day celebrations and fireworks at Gov. Notte Park, Pumpkins in the Park by the towns Youth Commission at Halloween time, and the annual Christmas tree lighting on the front lawn of the town hall. Plus, with close proximity to Bally’s Twin River in Lincoln and a short drive to the state capital of Providence, there’s no shortage of things to do.
In the past few years, North Providence has received several improvements to its infrastructure and city government, making it an even better place to live. If you’re looking to buy a home in the area, let’s take a look at the local homes for sale in North Providence that make it such a great place to live.
Homes for sale in North Providence
In the friendly area of North Providence, you’ll be in good company with over 32,000 residents and close to 15,000 housing units. With an average age of 42, the residents of North Providence are well-established and made up of families of all age groups. Nearly 60% of the town’s residents are homeowners. Over the recent months, roughly 95 homes have been sold with an average sold price of $333,934 – an increase of almost $13,000 from the previous period. Average prices range from less than $150,000 to over $490,000. The average home sold had roughly 1400 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.
North Providence prides itself on pristine upkeep, friendly streets, and community spirit. Built on centuries of tradition & New England charm, history abounds with historical sites and architecture. At the same time, expansion has brought modern construction and green incentives in both commercial and residential units. A revitalized economy has seen the construction of new facilities that bring new economic opportunities, including those for small business owners, professionals, and entrepreneurs. Over the years, I have personally watched the transformation of Mineral Spring Avenue, with the addition of several new and thriving businesses. This makes North Providence an excellent option for many homebuyers seeking a new home for themselves and their families.
You can find diverse housing options in North Providence, from beautiful condos and quaint multi-unit housing options to modern family homes. I would be honored to join you on your journey to homeownership in North Providence and beyond.
Bottom Line
North Providence might be the smallest town in the smallest state, but it has significant benefits for homebuyers. Homes for sale in North Providence range from historic properties to modern family homes, condos, and multi-unit housing, making it a diverse landscape for homebuyers. With close proximity to Providence and other RI cities, plus Boston and New York, North Providence is a great place to call home. As my hometown, I’d be happy to guide you through the great selection of homes for sale in North Providence.
Buying a house is a complicated and maybe the most significant financial decision ever. The more you know going in, the easier time you will have. It’s vitally important to work with a reputable Realtor® who can guide you through the process and ensure that your best interests are considered in all negotiations.
When it’s time for you to search for homes for sale in North Providence, connect with me, Jay Rezendes, owner of The 401 Group and an award-winning RE/MAX RI Right Choice Realtor®. I’m committed to delivering the highest level of service, support, and convenience throughout the journey, and I’d be happy to show you why my satisfied clients are happy to call me their Realtor® for Life.