Clapp Conservation Restriction

When Nathaniel and Hester Clapp of Ipswich began thinking about downsizing from the gracious turn-of-the-century colonial they had purchased from Hester’s parents, their goal was to remain on the property, but move to a smaller home to be constructed elsewhere on the 21-acre parcel.

While the Clapps hoped a family member would move into the original home, there was no guarantee the time and location would be right for anyone in the family. That led them to think about conserving the property, in the event they decided to sell the original house, and much of the land.

Greenbelt’s staff worked with Nat, Hester and a local land planner to craft a conservation plan that defined an area for the new home, maintained the setting and views from the original dwelling, and protected the integrity of the farm fields, salt marsh and woodlands.

The land planning process concluded that if developed to its maximum extent, the property could support a total of four building lots. By donating a conservation restriction (CR) that eliminated two lots, the Clapps generated a significant federal income tax deduction, and were eligible for a state tax credit, as well.

At the completion of the project, the family was comfortable in the knowledge that not only had the property been protected in a way that honored their family’s history on the land, but that they had done so in a way that gave them flexibility for the future, whether the original home stays in the family, or if it is sold.