Eighteen months after listing their historic Kennebunk home for $2.25 million, Tom’s of Maine founders Tom and Kate Chappell have sold it for $1.7 million.
Tom’s of Maine, a manufacturer of natural oral and personal care products
Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Kennebunk, Tom’s of Maine has been a subsidiary of global consumer products maker Colgate-Palmolive Co. (NYSE: CL) since 2006 and employs 120 people.
They listed their home at 99 Main St. with Portland-based Legacy Properties/Sotheby’s International Realty.
“The buyers for the Chappell property are a multi-generational family from Michigan,” Dana Whitney, the brokerage’s marketing director, told Mainebiz. “They are relocating to Kennebunk full-time with the intention of operating a boutique B&B in the historic property and making the most of the prime Main Street Kennebunk location.”
Interest was nationwide with buyer interest from Maine to California and more than 20 showings.
The Federal-style Colonial, once known as Lexington Elms, was built in 1799 by architect and housewright Thomas Eaton for Kennebunk native Nathaniel Frost.
The Chappells have lived there since 1983 and raised five children there. In addition to being business owners they are artists, authors and philanthropists.
The 1.6-acre property includes organic gardens with apple trees, herbs, and vegetables and a long circular drive leading to a three-bay barn, according to a news release.
The 7,500-square-foot house has 20 rooms, including seven bedrooms, eight wood-burning fireplaces and an accessory apartment with a cathedral living room.
There’s a courtyard, covered porch entry, tiled mudroom and stenciling done in the dining room by 18th century New England artist Moses Eaton. The kitchen has “leathered” granite counters that have more of a matte finish, a slate farmers sink and a walk-in pantry. An octagonal sunroom has a vaulted wood ceiling.
“This estate is more than just a home,” said Andi Robinson, who listed the property with Elaine Prendergast. “It’s a reflection of the Chappell family’s legacy of creativity, sustainability and care for the community.”
The house is equipped with solar panels, geothermal heating and energy-efficient systems. The family has described their home as “all-natural,” according to the release.
The approach to marketing the property included leveraging the brokerage’s global reach; highlighting the house’s versatility as a single-family residence, multi-generational home or commercial property; and providing weekly updates and hands-on guidance to the Chappells.
The property drew global attention through advertisements in magazines, social media promotion and features in Robb Report, Mansion Global and Mainebiz.
“This sale required not only dedication but a clear understanding of the property’s value and the type of buyer we were seeking,” said Robinson. “Strategic advertising and personalized service were key to showcasing the home to the right audience.”
