c.1900 Maryland Fixer Upper W/ Ballroom $55K

$55,000

Nestled beside the local church, this substantial Maryland fixer upper pairs timeless character with exceptional investment potential. Live in one half while collecting steady rental income from the other, or thoughtfully update both units to maximize your long-term yield.

More featured at 24 Church St, Lonaconing, MD, 21539

Realtor Comments

Own a piece of Lonaconing history! Built in 1900, the home retains remarkable original character: ornate wood trim and decorative moldings, leaded glass windows, hardwood floors throughout, and antique lighting fixtures, all set within generously sized rooms. A standout feature is the home’s original ballroom, awaiting restoration to reclaim its former grandeur. The previous owner began renovations, including a new roof, partial foundation repairs, exterior painting, and removal of exterior lead paint. Buyers should budget for further updates — water damage to ceilings and failing basement flooring remain from prior conditions. Sold strictly as-is. A rare opportunity for an investor or renovator with vision to bring this charming duplex back to life.

4bd
2ba
1,480sqft
Circa 1900

More Maryland Properties

24 Church St, Lonaconing, MD 21539 $55,000

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: Mr. Brian C Coester, Coester Real Estate Services, LLC, (888) 694-8494

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The Pros

Unbeatable Housing Affordability
- Low Cost of Entry: Lonaconing boasts home values significantly below both state and national averages.Median home prices hover around $110,000–$130,000, offering historic homes with character at a fraction of Maryland’s typical price tag.
- Overall Living Costs: Everyday expenses, including rent, utilities, and property taxes, are substantially lower than in eastern Maryland.
Small-Town Charm & Close Community
- Tight-Knit Atmosphere: With a population of around 1,300, it features a quiet, traditional small-town setting where neighbors know each other.
- Rich History: The town retains historical landmarks like the Lonaconing Furnace (Iron Furnace) and classic architecture lining its main streets.
Scenic Mountain Setting & Outdoor Access
- Appalachian Beauty: Surrounded by the forested hills of Western Maryland, the town offers dramatic valley views, autumn foliage, and proximity to nature.
- Nearby Recreation: State parks, hiking trails, fishing spots, and public lands—such as Dan’s Mountain State Park, Frostburg, and Deep Creek Lake—are all within an easy driving distance.
Low Crime Rates
- Safety: The town generally enjoys lower rates of violent crime compared to larger urban centers, making it appealing to buyers seeking a peaceful rural environment.

The Cons

Economic Limitations & Job Market
- Limited Local Employment: The local economy offers very few high-paying or diverse job opportunities. Most residents commute to larger nearby hubs like Frostburg or Cumberland, or work remotely.
- Economic Stagnation: Like many former industrial and coal-mining communities in Appalachia, economic growth is slow, and commercial investment is sparse.
Isolation & Lack of Amenities
- Few Local Businesses: Lonaconing has minimal retail, dining, or entertainment options. A full grocery trip or specialty errand requires driving to Frostburg (around 15 minutes away) or Cumberland (25–30 minutes away).
- Car Dependency: Public transit options are extremely limited, making owning a reliable personal vehicle mandatory.
Aging Housing Stock & Infrastructure
- Home Maintenance: Many properties in town were built in the early 20th century or earlier. While inexpensive, they often require major updates, maintenance, or energy-efficiency retrofits.
- Flood Risks: Nestled along Georges Creek, certain low-lying sections of the valley are prone to localized flooding during heavy rains.
Distance from Major Metro Areas
- Remote Location: It is quite isolated from major metropolitan hubs—driving to Baltimore or Washington, D.C. takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, making city day trips a significant commitment.

History

Origins: The land for the property was purchased in 1872, and the home was subsequently built by Joseph and Jennie Myers. They lived in the home with their children, Oscar, Nellie, Mary and Florence.

The Builders: Joseph Myers (b.1843) was a well-known local hardware merchant in the mining and industrial town of Lonaconing during the area’s peak late-19th-century growth in the George’s Creek Valley.

Architecture & The Ballroom: Built around 1900 (with 1870s/1880s framing elements noted in historical district archives), the large two-story frame structure features elaborate Queen Anne-style detailing, corner doorways, and high ceilings that house a distinctive, grand space known locally as the “ballroom”.

Later Years: The historic home was split into a multi-family duplex configuration during the mid-20th century before later restoration efforts sought to transition it back into a single-family residence.