A well-known ice cream shop in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, is now on the market. Little’s Dairy Barn, a family-owned business that has operated for nearly five decades, is listed for sale at $1.2 million. The sale includes the building, all equipment, and the business itself, along with a 1.17-acre property that features a newly renovated two-bedroom, two-bath home.
Rich History and Community Impact
Founded by Robert Little in May 1973, Little’s Dairy Barn has built a loyal customer base over the years. The LaPorte family has owned and managed the shop since 1998. Listing agent Chris Losco of Balsley Losco emphasized the shop’s popularity, noting, “It’s been in business about 50 years and has an incredible following.” The seasonal operation runs from late March through late September, with eager customers lining up on opening day.
“People line up the first day they open,” Losco remarked. The business is not only popular among patrons but also among job seekers. “It’s one of the few businesses that has a waiting list to work there,” he added.
Real Estate Dynamics and Future Prospects
Showings for the property commenced last Tuesday, and since then, Losco has averaged three appointments per day with pre-qualified buyers. “My phone is ringing off the hook,” he said, emphasizing that he only shows the property to serious inquiries. While there have been “a couple” of offers, Losco believes it is still early in the process.
The ranch-style home included in the sale has undergone extensive renovations and has not been occupied since. “Everything is brand new — the heating, cooling, electric, plumbing, siding, roofing, and windows,” Losco detailed. The primary bedroom includes an ensuite bathroom, along with a walk-up attic and a half basement.
According to data from New Jersey Realtors, the median sale price of a single-family home in Egg Harbor Township was $435,000 in October. The renovated home could potentially be rented for around $2,500 per month or used by the new owner of the business.
Looking ahead, Losco expressed hopes that the new owner will maintain the shop’s legacy within the community. “I think everybody’s hope, because it’s such a staple in the community, is whoever buys it keeps it the same and expands the business and maybe offers other things.”
Little’s Dairy Barn serves as more than just an ice cream shop; it represents a cherished tradition for many families in the area. As the search for new ownership begins, the community watches closely, hoping to see the beloved establishment continue to thrive.
