Bargain Victorian: 231 St. Louis Ave
Shannon Howard | Nov 18, 2009 | Comments 4
You will not believe this listing price on this sweet old Ferguson farmhouse.
UPDATED, 1:55pm: If you’ve ever looked with wonder at Ferguson’s gorgeous old houses, dreaming of the day when you can buy and restore a vintage property of your own, have I got a deal for you! The cute little Victorian that sits right next to the Ferguson post office is for sale, and the price is truly stunning, even considering the poor economy.
Built in the 1890s, 231 St. Louis Avenue sits on land originally owned by William Ferguson himself, and except for some recent vinyl siding, it’s still very original. Basically, it’s one of those elusive, wonderful vintage houses where a little old lady lived forever and changed almost nothing. A true diamond in the rough, with 9-10-foot ceilings and gorgeous original millwork. And get this…as of tomorrow, it’s selling for just $12,000.
The listing says the house needs “extensive rehabbing,” but it is occupied, so the basic systems must be intact. I just heard from the real estate agent, and she says necessary updates include plaster repair, kitchen and bath remodels, sump pump repair, and installing new HVAC throughout. There are also wide-plank hardwood floors ready to be revived.
If I owned the house, I would plant a nice long row of golden bamboo to shield the post office. And because I’m a glutton for punishment, I would probably also restore the original siding. But at $12,000, I could do all that and still have a 1500-square-foot bargain on my hands.
Of course, the neighborhood around St. Louis Avenue doesn’t get the same attention as some of Ferguson’s other historic areas, but it is up-and-coming and safe, with a number of longtime residents. It’s also a block from the Ferguson Farmers Market and directly adjacent to the Ted Jones Bike Trail…the perfect central location from which to walk or bike nearly anywhere in town.
Backing to a creek, with Vincenzo’s and the police department just beyond, 231 St. Louis has a deep lot that’s just waiting for a nice, big garden. And besides the post office, it has only one neighbor, so it could be made into a lovely private oasis.
But hey, that’s for you to dream up. Take a look at 231 St. Louis, and who knows, you might find the historic house of your dreams! Just note that the property is part of an estate, so the sale will have to be approved by St. Louis County probate court.
Filed Under: Architecture • Real Estate
From the photo alone, I knew exactly what home you were talking about. It would be fabulous were it restored — makes me wish I had that kind of time, energy, and skillset.
I agree. For $12,000, surely we can find SOMEONE who is willing to restore this great house.
I’ve often admired that house on my trips to the post office. So much potential!!!
Anyone know what the deal is with the house next to it? It was on the market last week. I hope a rehaber bought it. those two house both rehabed would really look good together!