It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a listing with a celebrity connection will garner more interest upon hitting the market.
This is true even of the long-deceased celebrities of yore, including the woman who originally penned that quote as the opening line of her 1813 “Pride and Prejudice.”
That title, along with Jane Austen’s subsequent coming-of-age tale “Northanger Abbey” (published in 1817) and prior work, “Sense and Sensibility” (published in 1811), were all written at this Hampshire, UK estate that’s now listed for $10.43 million.
In addition to composing three of her six major novels at the property, known as Steventon House, the late author was also born on the grounds — and called this her home for 25 years.
“Many homes across the country can lay claim to having ties to some of Britain’s most historical figures, however only Steventon House was the birthplace of iconic author Jane Austen, where she wrote some of her most significant works,” Ed Sugden, who holds the listing with fellow Savills agent Steven Moore, told Mansion Global.
The estate listed Thursday alongside Knight Frank.
“While the original house no longer stands, what is there today is the glorious Georgian vision of her older brother Edward, which is very befitting of the world that Jane wrote about,” added Sugden.
Indeed, the original 16th-century house where Austen was born in 1775 was replaced by the one that today stands, and that’s where she penned those famed works.
She passed away in 1817 at the age of 41.
Set on just over 51 acres, the house is accessed via a tree-lined drive.
Inside are various period furnishings, fireplaces, millwork and hardwood floors mixed with modern conveniences, including a temperature-controlled wine cellar and spa-like bath in the primary suite.
On the grounds, there’s a swimming pool, a tennis court and plenty of lush landscaping, from a walled garden to cherry trees and a wisteria walk.
Other structures include a brick-built coach house with room for two cars, stables and garden machinery — as well as a two-bedroom cottage with a kitchen, a dining room, a sitting room and a utility room.
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