Why this home stands out
Homes from the mid-1940s carry a solidity that newer construction rarely matches — thick walls, established lots, and proportions that feel genuinely livable rather than squeezed. At 111 Smith Ave, that era's craftsmanship pairs with a location that puts Naval Medical Center Portsmouth and Norfolk Naval Shipyard both inside a ten-minute commute, making the address as practical as it is full of personality.
SIMONSDALE GARDENS and the Portsmouth real estate market
Portsmouth is one of Hampton Roads' most underrated cities — a place with real history, a working waterfront, and neighborhoods that have been home to Navy and civilian families alike for generations. The area around 111 Smith Ave reflects that character: modest, well-kept streets where neighbors tend to know each other, mature trees line the sidewalks, and the pace feels a step slower than the busier corridors across the water. Portsmouth sits in its own independent city jurisdiction, meaning city services, parks, and infrastructure are managed locally. The broader city offers a revitalized Olde Towne district, a ferry connection to Norfolk, and a genuine sense of place that newer suburban developments simply can't replicate. For anyone who values authenticity over polish, Portsmouth delivers.
What's nearby
Daily life is genuinely easy from 111 Smith Ave. Groceries are covered with Food Lion and MP International Grocery both within half a mile, plus a Dollar General just 0.7 miles out. Hungry? Papa Johns Pizza and Heaven's Kitchen are practically around the corner at 0.2 miles, and Bubba-N-Frank's Portsmouth is a quick 0.4-mile trip for something heartier. Coffee and a quick bite are handled by Wawa and URBAN ICE within a mile. When it's time to move, Marable's Fitness, Crunch Fitness Portsmouth, and TIGER Academy of Martial Arts are all under a mile away. Portsmouth City Park, the Links at City Park golf course, and the Portsmouth Volleyball Center round out the recreation options at 0.8 miles.
For different buyers
For military families relocating
With Naval Medical Center Portsmouth just eight minutes away and Norfolk Naval Shipyard reachable in nine, 111 Smith Ave is a natural fit for military households. A VA loan can make ownership here straightforward, and the short commute means more time at home between duty days. The 3-bedroom layout gives growing families room to breathe across multiple tours.
For first-time buyers
A 1945-built home with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, and 1,360 square feet gives first-time buyers real space without the complexity of a larger property. Portsmouth's established neighborhoods tend to offer more square footage per dollar than newer suburban pockets, and the walkable access to groceries, parks, and restaurants means you won't feel car-dependent from day one.
More buyer questions
How far is 111 Smith Ave from Naval Medical Center Portsmouth?
Naval Medical Center Portsmouth is approximately 8 minutes by car from 111 Smith Ave, making it one of the closest residential options to that installation in the area.
How far is 111 Smith Ave from Norfolk Naval Shipyard?
Norfolk Naval Shipyard is about 9 minutes away by car, putting it well within a comfortable daily commute from this address.
What is the lot and home size at 111 Smith Ave?
The home offers 1,360 square feet of interior living space across a 3-bedroom, 2-bath layout, built in 1945 on an established Portsmouth lot.
Is 111 Smith Ave in a flood zone?
Flood zone status for 111 Smith Ave is displayed in the FloodRisk tile on this page — check that section for the current FEMA designation and what it means for insurance.
Are there parks or recreational facilities near 111 Smith Ave?
Portsmouth City Park, the Links at City Park golf course, and the Portsmouth Volleyball Center are all within 0.8 miles, giving residents solid outdoor and recreational options close to home.
Want to know more about 111 Smith Ave or the Portsmouth market? Tom and Dariya Milan at LPT Realty are happy to walk you through everything — reach out and let's talk.
