Small South Austin home turns on the charm for $390K

At 735 square feet, this cute cottage is just that—a cottage—but it’s offered at a bargain, at least for the neighborhood. (It’s also well under the city median price for single-family homes.) It has been reduced $10,000 from its original asking price, and, according to the listing, received more than $90,000 in upgrades.

It also fits well with the original, intimate, and creative nature of its South Austin neighborhood (even if the sky overhead might not be as electric as the photo indicates). Built in 1945, the two-bedroom, one-bathroom home is on a large, fenced lot that backs to Bouldin Creek and features a deck and a sporty area (not quite a full sport court, but definitely a place to practice your free throws).

Refinished hardwood floors, paneled doors, and beadboard, a farmhouse sink, and butcherblock counters in the kitchen contribute to the period feel, while upgraded mosaic bathroom floors and window shutters blend in well.

Other, less visible upgrades include a tankless water heater, new electric panel, HVAC, and foundation work.

• 2109 Thornton Road [Realty Austin]