c.1900 Historic Fixer Upper Baldwin Mansion For Sale in Alabama Reduced to Under $100K

$109,900 Reduced to $99,900

Five-bedroom, 3.5-bath historic Baldwin Mansion for sale with beautiful windows, double porches and bay window, all on a 0.83-acre lot. A grand staircase, hardwood floors, stained glass and built-ins are some of the original features.

Realtor Comments

If you ask me, this house IS Cloverdale. It is the very first house you see as you enter the Garden District. This captivating historic home known as the Baldwin Mansion is located in the heart of Montgomery. It is one of the very first homes built in this city. With its timeless Southern charm and rich architectural heritage, this property offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history while showcasing your personal touch through renovations and restoration. With a renovation budget of about $180, 000 to $200, 000, you should be able to get the roof replaced, HVAC installed, paint, flooring, light fixtures, electrical, and all carpentry done. I don’t know of any foundation problems but the home has been standing since the late 1800s. I don’t know of any plumbing issues either but it will take that budget and you can list the home for $100 a foot which is north of $400, 000 and it could possibly sell for that. Ask your realtor for sold comps in Cloverdale and if they are selling for over $100 a foot then this deal makes sense. You should make at least $40,000-$50, 000 if you do it right. It is zoned for single family and multi-family units.

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.

398 Felder Ave, Montgomery, AL 36104  

•  Reduced to $99,900Contact Realtor: Keithan J. Jones – Keithan Jones, Broker
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This house is known a s the Baldwin Mansion as it was owned by the family of Dr. Benjamin James Baldwin (1856-1932), an ear, eye, nose and throat physician,  from the late 1920s to 1953. The doctor married Mary Morris in 1884, and the union created two children, Elizabeth and Josiah. After Mary’s death, the doctor married Kate Sistrunk in 1896, with whom he lived in this home. After the Baldwins, the home was purchased by the Hagedorn family.

The Garden District of Montgomery, Alabama, is a historic and charming neighborhood known for its beautiful, tree-lined streets, classic Southern architecture, and strong sense of community. It’s a highly desirable area for those who appreciate both the aesthetics of older homes and the convenience of being near downtown Montgomery. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of the Garden District:

Pros:

1. Historic Charm and Architecture: The Garden District is filled with stately, historic homes, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You’ll find large, Southern-style mansions with sweeping verandas, Victorian-era homes, and early 20th-century bungalows. The area is known for its unique and well-preserved architecture, which gives it a distinct, charming character.
2. Tree-lined Streets and Green Spaces: The neighborhood is beautifully landscaped, with mature trees, gardens, and well-maintained yards. The green space and canopy of trees add to the sense of tranquility and aesthetic appeal, making it a peaceful place to live or visit.
3. Proximity to Downtown Montgomery: The Garden District is just a short distance from downtown Montgomery, so residents have easy access to the city’s cultural, dining, and entertainment options. Being close to the downtown area also means quicker access to work, shopping, restaurants, and other amenities without the hustle and bustle of city center living.
4. Community Feel: The Garden District has a strong sense of community, with friendly neighbors and local events that bring people together. It’s a great place for those looking for a close-knit, family-oriented environment. The area also has a mix of both long-term residents and newcomers, adding to the community’s diversity and vibrancy.
5. Walkability: The neighborhood is highly walkable, especially for those who enjoy strolling through tree-lined streets or walking to nearby parks, cafes, and shops. The area’s design encourages a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle.
6. Good Schools: Montgomery has several highly rated public and private schools, and many are within a reasonable distance from the Garden District. This makes the neighborhood particularly appealing to families.

Cons:

1. Older Homes and Maintenance: While the historic homes are a major selling point, they can also come with significant maintenance challenges. Older homes may require ongoing repairs, updates, and upkeep, which can be costly and time-consuming. Some properties may not have modern amenities or energy efficiency compared to newer homes.
2. Higher Property Prices: Due to the neighborhood’s desirable location, historic appeal, and proximity to downtown, property prices in the Garden District can be higher than in some other parts of Montgomery. This can make it less affordable for first-time homebuyers or those on a tighter budget.
3. Limited Commercial Amenities: While the Garden District is close to downtown Montgomery, the neighborhood itself is primarily residential with fewer commercial amenities. This may require residents to travel a short distance to find a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
4. Traffic and Parking: Although the area is relatively quiet, some residents report that certain parts of the Garden District can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or when events are held in nearby downtown areas. Additionally, older homes may not have garages or ample parking spaces, which can make parking a bit of a challenge in some areas.
5. Flooding Risk: Like many older neighborhoods, parts of the Garden District are located near waterways or low-lying areas, which can make them prone to flooding, particularly during heavy rains or storms. Flooding has historically been an issue in certain parts of Montgomery, and prospective homeowners should check local flood maps and insurance rates.
6. Gentrification Concerns: While the area is desirable, some residents and critics have raised concerns about the gentrification of the neighborhood, where increasing property values could push out lower-income families or change the neighborhood’s character. This is a broader issue for many historic districts in urban areas.