Why this home stands out
Homes this close to two active military installations — Norfolk Naval Shipyard and USCG Base Portsmouth, both roughly two minutes away — rarely offer this much square footage or this much architectural history. At 1,969 square feet spread across four bedrooms, 1528 Elm Avenue gives you room to grow inside a century-old home that carries the kind of craftsmanship you simply can't replicate in new construction. That combination is genuinely hard to find in Portsmouth.
PRENTIS PLACE and the Portsmouth real estate market
1528 Elm Avenue sits in a mature, established section of Portsmouth, Virginia — a city with deep roots in naval history and a waterfront identity that sets it apart from its Hampton Roads neighbors. The streets here are lined with early-twentieth-century homes that give the area a grounded, lived-in character, and the neighborhood moves at a pace that feels intentional rather than rushed. Portsmouth rewards people who appreciate authenticity: independent businesses, walkable blocks, and a real sense of community built over generations. The city itself is undergoing steady reinvestment, with its Olde Towne district drawing attention for its historic architecture, waterfront dining, and arts scene just a short drive away. For anyone weighing daily commute against quality of life, Portsmouth checks both boxes — you're close to work, close to the water, and surrounded by a city that has genuine personality. Whether you're planting roots here for the long term or simply want a home that holds its character across the years, this address delivers.
What's nearby
Day-to-day errands are easy from 1528 Elm Avenue. Martha's Mini Mart is just 0.1 miles away for quick stops, and a Dollar General sits 0.4 miles out for household staples. When you want a bite close to home, Jaliyah's is right around the corner at 0.1 miles, and Vickie's Convenience & Deli Subs is a short 0.3-mile walk. Cure, a local coffee shop, is 0.7 miles away for a proper morning cup. For staying active, the Effingham Street Family YMCA and Brikhouse Boxing and Fitness are both 0.5 miles out. Scotts Creek Park is just 0.3 miles away, and Jefferson Park and Columbia Court are each about 0.6 miles — solid options for outdoor time without getting in the car.
For different buyers
For military families relocating
Two minutes to Norfolk Naval Shipyard and two minutes to USCG Base Portsmouth — the commute math here is genuinely hard to beat. For a military family managing deployments, duty schedules, and everything in between, that kind of proximity reduces daily friction in a real way. A VA loan can make this four-bedroom, century-old home even more accessible, and the space means you're not cramped when the whole family is home.
For buyers drawn to character
If you've been searching for a home that has something to say — real bones, a real era, a real story — 1528 Elm Avenue is worth a close look. Built in 1920, this four-bedroom home carries the proportions and craftsmanship of a period when builders took their time. Nearly 2,000 square feet gives you room to restore, personalize, and make it entirely your own without sacrificing livability in the process.
More buyer questions
How far is 1528 Elm Avenue from Norfolk Naval Shipyard?
Norfolk Naval Shipyard is approximately two minutes from 1528 Elm Avenue by car, making it one of the closest residential addresses to the installation in the area. The short commute is a significant practical advantage for active-duty personnel and civilian employees alike.
How far is 1528 Elm Avenue from USCG Base Portsmouth?
USCG Base Portsmouth is also roughly two minutes away, putting two major military installations within an extremely short drive of the front door. Few addresses in Hampton Roads offer this kind of dual-base proximity.
What is the flood zone status for 1528 Elm Avenue?
Flood zone designation for this address is displayed in the FloodRisk tile on this page, which pulls current FEMA map data. Reviewing that information alongside your homeowner's insurance options is a good step before making any decisions.
Is there a homeowners association at 1528 Elm Avenue?
Based on available property data, 1528 Elm Avenue does not appear to be governed by a homeowners association, meaning no HOA dues or association rules apply to the property.
What can you tell me about the age and style of the home at 1528 Elm Avenue?
The home was built in 1920, placing it firmly in the early twentieth century and giving it over a hundred years of architectural history. Homes of this era in Portsmouth typically feature sturdy construction, generous room proportions, and details that reflect the craftsmanship standards of that period.
Curious whether 1528 Elm Avenue fits your situation? Tom and Dariya Milan know Portsmouth well — reach out and get a straight answer about this address and what it could mean for you.