Sure, almost a million dollars sounds like a lot for a fixer-upper. This one, though, might—might—be the rare case in which it’s worth it.
For one thing, it was built in 1906, and still has many of its classic Victorian/Queen Anne features somewhat intact: a wraparound porch with what look like hand-turned railings, transoms, decorative original windows, French and carved oval-faced doors, longleaf pine floor, high ceilings, cedar closets. and a clawfoot tub, to name a few.
Then there’s the location—in the East Cesar Chavez neighborhood (and specifically within the Willow-Spence Historic District), with downtown views, access, and Rainey Street in easy walking distance. The five-bedroom, three-bathroom house on 0.28 acres measures 2,920 square feet and has two living areas, a formal dining area, and, according to the listing, an attic that could work as a second story or loft-type space.
Of course, while the appealing historic features are largely intact, the historic lack of central heat and air-conditioning systems is also part of the home’s current condition.
On the other hand, there’s the fact that the original carriage house has been remodeled and updated and, while it departs almost completely from its heritage style inside, looks like a sweet place to live while you’re fixing up the front. (Or really, just a sweet place to live regardless—it would easily fetch half the asking price of the property on its own).
• 1004 Spence Street [Estately]