c.1915 New York Handyman Special With Hardwoods Under $50K
OHU50K Notes $49,900
Check out this two-bedroom, one-bath New York handyman special with a carriage house. Built around 1915, the home features a front porch, bay window, hardwood floors and wide baseboards.
Realtor Comments
Tons of potential in this 2 bedroom, 1 full bath home with oversized garage! First floor features living room with pretty bay window, formal dining room, laundry room with washer/dryer included, kitchen and a full bath. Upstairs is a large landing, 2 bedrooms and a bonus room that could be converted to home office, den, or a 3rd bedroom! Back mudroom connects via breezeway to garage with parking for one car plus more space for workshop or storage including a complete second floor. Vinyl siding and many vinyl windows throughout. Updated 200 amp circuit breaker panel with updated electric throughout! This home is being sold As Is.
- 2 bed
- 1 bath
- Build date 1915
46 Glen Ave, Hornell, NY 14843 $49,900
- Contact Realtor: Kathleen Hall
- Google Map
- Niche
Pros
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Affordable Cost of Living & Housing
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Hornell’s overall cost‑of‑living index is about 88 (where 100 = U.S. average), meaning living there is ~12% cheaper than average.
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Housing in particular is significantly cheaper: the median home value recently ~ $69,000 in one estimate.
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Rent is also relatively modest: average around $1,200/month for one‑bedrooms in late 2025.
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The city recently approved budgets with no tax hike (or even slight tax decrease) to keep affordability.
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Shorter Commutes & Manageable Traffic
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Average commute time in Hornell is about 17 minutes.
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Being a smaller city means less congestion compared to big metro areas; easier access around town.
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Tight‑Knit Community & Small‑City Feel
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Hornell is described as a “quaint suburb” with “welcoming neighbours, community parks, historic sites” in online guides.
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For those who prefer a quieter pace, smaller town scale can be a plus.
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Some local amenities: historic downtown, small businesses supported by community.
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Infrastructure Investment & Stability
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The city is making investments in infrastructure (water filtration, sewer upgrades) which may show long‑term commitment to quality of life.
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The local government seems focused on maintaining affordability and services with budget discipline.
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Cons
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Crime & Safety Concerns
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Hornell’s crime rate is higher than many communities: for example, one source says crime ~30 % above national average.
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According to CrimeGrade, Hornell ranks in the 38th percentile for safety (meaning it’s safer than 38% of U.S. cities, but less safe than 62%).
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Property crime, theft, and burglary rates are particular concerns.
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Limited Job Market / Lower Income Levels
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Median household income is modest: ~$46,300 in 2023.
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The jobs category receives lower scores: smaller scale economy, fewer specialty industries.
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According to an area guide, employment opportunities may be limited and commuting to nearby towns may be required.
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Population Decline & Aging Housing Stock
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The population has been slowly declining.
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Many homes and buildings are older, which means more maintenance, potential issues (lead paint, dated systems) are reported by locals. > “Housing is a steal compared to most of the US but be aware of lead paint and asbestos… since it’s all from late 1800s through early 1900s.”
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Amenities, Nightlife & Big‑City Features Are Limited
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For certain lifestyles—if you want extensive nightlife, big entertainment scenes, major cultural institutions—you may find Hornell somewhat limited. > “There’s literally nothing to do, I’m in my twenties… also a lot of pro trump people.”
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Public transportation is limited; walkability is low; most errands will likely require a car.
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Weather & Geographic Limitations (depending on preference)
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Winters can be snowy, and being in a more rural/upstate region means some things like specialty services or shopping might require travel. (While not explicitly stated in stats above, it’s implied by local commentary.)
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