c.1865 Three Bedroom Iowa Handyman Special $53K

There are 3 upstairs bedrooms and a main floor bath and laundry. The property is in need of significant updating and is being sold in as-is condition.

If interested in a property, please 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. 

Contact Realtor: Jo R. Trabert

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The Pros of Living in Wayland

1. Incredibly Affordable Housing

Your dollar stretches incredibly far in Wayland. The median home value sits around $115,200, which is nearly 60% below the national average. Whether you are looking for a historic home to renovate or a property with a spacious backyard, you can establish roots here for a fraction of what it costs in larger cities.

2. Highly-Rated Public Schools

For families, school quality is a major selling point. Wayland is served by the WACO Community School District(incorporating Wayland, Associates, Crawfordsville, and Olds).

• The Vibe: The district boasts a low student-to-teacher ratio (about 11:1 at the high school level), meaning students get highly personalized attention.

   

• The Reputation: WACO is consistently ranked well above average for Iowa schools, known for strong teacher support and highly active athletic and extracurricular programs.

   

3. Deep-Rooted Community Spirit

Wayland has a “neighbors helping neighbors” culture. It is a place where people look out for each other, local school sports are the Friday night focal point, and community events like the annual “Home-Town Days” bring everyone together.

4. Low-Stress, Quiet Lifestyle

If you want to escape traffic jams, noise pollution, and a hectic daily grind, Wayland offers total peace. The pace of life is slow, the air is clean, and you are surrounded by scenic Iowa countryside.

The Cons of Living in Wayland

1. Limited Local Amenities & Dining

With a population of just over 1,000, Wayland does not support a wide array of businesses.

• For major grocery shopping, department stores, diverse dining, or healthcare specialists, you will have to drive about 10 to 15 minutes north to the town of Washington, or about 25 minutes south to Mount Pleasant.

   

• Entertainment options within town limits are sparse, so you will be relying on surrounding areas for movie theaters, bowling, and modern recreation.

   

2. Limited Career Opportunities

The local economy is heavily centered around agriculture, the school district, and a few small local businesses. If you work in tech, corporate business, or specialized industries, you will likely face a commute to larger regional hubs like Iowa City (about 45 minutes north) or need to secure a fully remote position.

3. Harsh Midwestern Winters

Like the rest of southeast Iowa, Wayland experiences the full force of all four seasons. Winters can be brutal, featuring heavy snowfalls, freezing winds, and sub-zero temperatures. Managing snow removal and driving on rural, icy roads are standard parts of winter life here.

4. The “Small Town Fishbowl” Effect

While a close-knit community is a major positive for some, it can feel restrictive to others. In a town of 1,100 people, everyone tends to know everyone else’s business. If you highly value anonymity and a bustling, diverse social scene, the rural-suburban mix of Wayland might feel a bit isolating.