c.1900 New York Handyman Special Reduced to Under $50K
OHU50K Notes $53,900 Reduced to $49,900
This New York handyman special offers three bedrooms, 1.5 baths, a detached garage, front porch and metal roof. It has a recent red paint job, eat-in kitchen, some hardwood floors, and public water and sewer, but the home is partially gutted.
Realtor Comments
Investor Special in the Village of Gouverneur! This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers a great opportunity to add value with your finishing touches. Featuring a spacious living room, an eat-in kitchen, and a den that could be used as an office or additional living space. The property includes a detached garage and is connected to public water and sewer. Recent upgrades include a brand new forced-air natural gas furnace. The home has good bones and has been partially gutted, providing a head start for your renovation plans. Ideal for investors or handy homeowners looking to build equity. Don’t miss out schedule a showing today!
- 3 bed
- 1.5 bath
- 1,386 square feet
- Build date 1900
118 William St, Gouverneur, NY 13642 $53,900 Reduced to $49,900
- Contact Realtor: Trevor Gibbons
- Google Map
- Niche
Pros
• Very affordable housing & cost of living
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Median home values (≈$87K–$135K) are ~60–70% below state and national averages
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Overall cost of living runs ~25–38% below U.S. and New York averages
• Low crime & safe environment
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Crime rates are ~26–29% lower than NY state and national averages, with about a 1‑in‑62 chance of being a victim
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Rated B+ for crime by local livability sites
• Outdoor recreation opportunities
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Close to Black River, St. Lawrence River, Adirondacks—ideal for fishing, hiking, boating, snowmobiling
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Health & fitness receive solid grades and air quality is excellent
• Community atmosphere & proximity to amenities
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Earns B+ for overall livability; locals enjoy parks, events, and a tight-knit feel
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Diversified workforce—local hospital, schools, some manufacturing jobs .
• Good schools at the high-school level
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Gouverneur Junior/Senior High ranks among NY’s top 10%, with 80–84% proficiency in math and reading vs. NY averages ~46–49%
Cons
• Weak local economy & low incomes
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Median household income (~$32K–45K) is ~40–50% below NY’s average; unemployment around 5–6% .
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Job market rated poor—limited opportunities in higher-paying sectors .
• Educational gaps at lower grades
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Elementary/middle schools score poorly (D–), test proficiency lags behind state averages .
• Declining/small population
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Village population ~3,600; town ~6,550, down ~7.5% since 2010 .
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Limited local amenities; many errands require driving
• Higher local taxes & utilities
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Property taxes are relatively high, and utilities cost more compared to housing affordability
• Cultural/political conservatism & lack of diversity in views
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Conservative-leaning, which may feel stifling to some populations
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Remote rural feel; limited nightlife or arts scene.
Perspectives from Residents
From Reddit discussions:
“Gouverneur is pretty remote…Not a lot of jobs…a beautiful area.”
“About 80% of the family’s in Govie live below the poverty line…dying town.”
Is Gouverneur Right for You?
Great fit if you:
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Seek affordable housing & low cost of living.
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Want a safe, close-knit rural community with outdoor recreation.
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Prefer small‑town pace and can commute for work or amenities.
Maybe not ideal if you:
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Need strong local employment or higher incomes.
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Prioritize excellent education for younger children.
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Want cultural diversity, vibrant nightlife, and liberal environments.
