5 Bedroom Iowa George F. Barber Queen Anne Under $90K
OHU50K Notes $89,900
Realtor Comments
This is an old Victorian Mansion built in 1900 in the Queen Anne style. This house has all the original quarter sawn oak woodwork. It includes all the tall baseboards and 3 pocket doors that function. This home is going to need a lot of renovation to bring it back to the exquisite home that it was 100 years ago. The original tall fireplace with mirror is intact and looks beautiful. The hardwood oak flooring is intact throughout the house. If you’re looking to restore a piece of history than this 126-year-old mansion is what you are looking for. There is over 2400 sq. ft. of living space which does not count the full finished attic turned into a master suite with a giant walk-in closet. The woodwork alone in this mansion is breath talking. There are no homes built like this anymore.
- bed
- bath
If interested in a property, pleases contact the realtor whose link is provided in the post below, or contact an agent of your own choosing. Independent verification of details and status is recommended.
450 Main St, Farnhamville, IA 50538 $89,900
- Contact Realtor: Reggie Kopecky
- Google Map
- Niche
Family History
This was the home of Charles Beacham (1868-1957). He was treasurer of the Farnhamville Bank, which he founded with his father. He married Laura Wilson (1871-1941) in 1891. They raised their four children in this home, daughters Fern and Francis, and twin sons Oscar and Orville.
Pros
1. Affordable housing
- Home prices are significantly below national averages, making homeownership accessible for many buyers. Recent estimates place average home values around $135,000, though individual properties vary widely.
- Rent and overall housing costs tend to be much lower than in larger Iowa cities.
2. Quiet, low-density living
- With fewer than 400 residents, Farnhamville offers a peaceful environment with little traffic, noise, or congestion.
- Residents often describe small Iowa towns as close-knit places where people know their neighbors. Community-oriented living is one of the main attractions of rural Iowa.
3. Lower cost of living
- Multiple livability analyses rate the town’s cost of living favorably compared with national averages.
4. Generally good small-town quality of life
- Livability rankings give Farnhamville above-average scores for affordability, housing, and overall quality of life.
- Public schools are often rated around average to above average in broader community rankings.
5. Good fit for people who enjoy rural lifestyles
- Farming country, open space, slower pace, and a strong sense of local identity appeal to many retirees, remote workers, and people seeking a quieter environment.
Cons
1. Very limited amenities
- There are few restaurants, stores, entertainment venues, healthcare facilities, or professional services within town.
- Residents typically drive to larger communities such as Fort Dodge, Jefferson, or Des Moines for many services.
2. Small job market
- Employment opportunities within Farnhamville itself are limited, and many residents commute elsewhere for work.
- Economic growth tends to be slower than in larger metropolitan areas.
3. Population decline
- The town has experienced a gradual population decrease over time, a common challenge among rural Midwestern communities.
- Population decline can make it harder to sustain local businesses and services.
4. Higher poverty levels than you might expect
- Despite low housing costs, poverty rates are reported above national averages in some datasets.
5. Rural limitations
- Fewer healthcare specialists, fewer shopping options, limited nightlife, and less cultural diversity than larger Iowa cities.
- Winters can be cold, snowy, and windy, and you’ll likely need a car for nearly all errands.
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