
38 Highland St Reading — Photo 1 of 42
Beds
4
Baths
2
SqFt
2,378
Style
Single Family
Built
1900
They simply don’t make homes like this anymore. Set in one of Reading’s most loved Birch Meadow neighborhoods, just steps from downtown, this turn-of-the-century Colonial offers 10 rooms, 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths and the kind of craftsmanship, scale and character that is nearly impossible to replicate today. The moment you step inside, the striking foyer sets the tone. Warm, welcoming and rich with architectural detail, it gives you an immediate sense of what makes this home so special. It’s not simply a pass-through space; it’s a beautiful introduction to the craftsmanship and character that continue throughout the home, and one of those details that feels even more special in person. Throughout, you’ll find 9-foot + ceilings, hardwood floors, ornate millwork, stained-glass windows, original cast-iron radiators, beautiful built-ins and substantial pocket doors, all reminders of an era when homes were built with incredible attention to detail. The large bedrooms continue that sense of scale, while a walk-in pantry adds both function and another layer of old-home charm that is increasingly hard to find. A walk-up attic offers exciting possibilities for future expansion, while two separate driveways provide added flexibility and potential to explore an ADU, subject to town approvals through oversized detached garage. Thoughtful updates over the years include a newer roof, replacement windows, new appliances, updated electrical and a new oil tank. And then there’s the location. You’re just moments from the Birch Meadow school complex and YMCA, with fields, courts, playgrounds and recreation practically outside your door. Downtown Reading, local restaurants, shops, coffee, the commuter rail and everything that makes this community so special are all within easy reach. It’s a location that allows you to truly become part of the neighborhood and enjoy a lifestyle where so much of your day-to-day life is right around you. Owned by the same family for nearly six decades, this home has been the backdrop for generations of memories and is ready for someone new to make it their own. Rich in architectural detail and ready for its next chapter, this is a home you need to experience in person to fully appreciate.
Immersive Experience
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Market Value Analysis
* Analysis is based on 24 actively listed and recently sold comparable properties strictly within Reading, MA.
Property Details
Financials
Parking
Interior Specifications
Climate & Utilities
Building & Exterior
Property & Lot
Amenities & Appliances
Range • Dishwasher • Disposal
Neighborhood
Public Transportation • Shopping • Pool • Tennis Court(s) • Park • Walk/Jog Trails
Geography
Floorplan Breakdown
Structural Layout
Living Room
Lvl First14 x 13
Flooring - Hardwood, Open Floorplan
Dining Room
Lvl First15 x 14
Closet/Cabinets - Custom Built, Flooring - Hardwood
Kitchen
Lvl First17 x 13
Flooring - Vinyl, Pantry, Countertops - Stone/Granite/Solid, Stainless Steel Appliances
Family Room
Lvl First17 x 15
Closet/Cabinets - Custom Built, Flooring - Hardwood, Open Floorplan, Pocket Door
Master Bedroom
Lvl Second14 x 14
Closet, Flooring - Hardwood
Bedroom 2
Lvl Second14 x 14
Bedroom 3
Lvl Second11 x 11
Closet, Flooring - Hardwood
Bedroom 4
Lvl Second17 x 8
Flooring - Hardwood
Bathroom 1
Lvl FirstBathroom - 3/4, Bathroom - With Shower Stall, Flooring - Vinyl, Dryer Hookup - Electric, Washer Hookup
Bathroom 2
Lvl SecondBathroom - Full, Bathroom - With Tub & Shower, Flooring - Vinyl
Population
25,612
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B01003)
Median Household Income
$166K
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B19013)
Renter-Occupied Homes
17.6%
U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 2024 5-Year Estimates (B25003)
New Construction Permits — Middlesex County
2,667 housing units permitted in the last 12 months (-2% vs the prior 12 months) — 1,709 in 5+ unit buildings
U.S. Census Bureau, Building Permits Survey (through Jun '26)
ADU Potential
Massachusetts allows one accessory dwelling unit by right in single-family zoning districts statewide (M.G.L. c. 40A §3; 760 CMR 71.00, effective Feb 2025). Estimated maximum ADU size for this property: 900 sq ft (the lesser of 900 sq ft or half the 2,378 sq ft principal dwelling). Lot size: 11,626 sq ft.
Based on listing data, which indicates the property type — not the zoning district. Local dimensional, septic (Title 5), and historic-district requirements still apply. Not legal advice — verify with the municipality.
Listing Agent: Susan Gormady Group
Listing Office: Classified Realty Group
MLS® Number: 73574006
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