c.1919 Three Bedroom Iowa Handyman Special Reduced to $49K
OHU50K Notes $59,000 Reduced to $49,000
c.1919 Three Bedroom Iowa Handyman Special. Easy walk to the public library and history museum. Home is in need of repair.
Realtor Comments
Opportunity is Knocking! Big yard, bold potentialthis home is ready for the right handy homeowner or investor to bring it back to life. Located on a generous lot in a quiet town, this three-bedroom, two-bath property features a charming wraparound porch that adds curb appeal and character. While it does need repairs and updates, it offers a solid foundation for those ready to bring their vision to life. The main floor includes a convenient combined bathroom and laundry area, and detached up to three car garage. Whether you’re looking to expand your rental portfolio or craft a home that reflects your personal style, this ones got bones worth building on. So, bring your toolbox and your ideasthis small-town fixer is ready for its next chapter!
- 3 bed
- 2 bath
- Build date 1919
408 N Harrison St, Laurens, IA 50554 $59,000 Reduced to $49,000
- Contact Realtor: Kelly Bierl
- Google Map
- Niche
Pros
• Extremely Affordable Cost of Living
Living costs are 30% lower than the U.S. average and 12.6% below Iowa’s state average, with housing especially cheap. Median home values hover around $65K–$71K, and rent for a two-bedroom is typically under $700/month.
Estimated monthly cost for a single person is just ~$1,733/year, or ~$20,800—well below national norms.
• Very Low Crime & Safe Environment
Laurens boasts crime rates 70% below the national average and 57% below Iowa’s. Your overall chance of becoming a crime victim is approximately 1 in 144 . Violent crimes are very rare. Annual crime is decreasing year-over-year (~19% drop recently)
• Strong Homeownership & Stable Community
Homeownership rate is around 80%, higher than national average (~65%). The community feels settled, quiet, and family-friendly, with many retirees and long-term residents
• Schools & Education
The Laurens–Marathon Community School District (K‑8) maintains a low student-teacher ratio (~11:1). Graduation rate is ~88%, and test scores above national average (~60%)
• Livability & Health
Laurens earns excellent ratings on livability platforms (e.g. Livability Score ~74/100, Citytistics grades A+) and health/safety scores are high due to good facilities and air quality
Cons
• Small Population & Limited Amenities
With just ~1,230 residents, Laurens lacks amenities like restaurants, retail shops, cultural offerings, or public transit. Most errands require driving to nearby towns
• Employment & Economic Limitations
Job growth is modest and benefits may be limited
• Slight Population Decline
Population has decreased by ~6–7% over the past five years, with slower growth and potential future strain on services and economic vitality
• Healthcare Costs Slightly Above Average
While overall living costs are low, healthcare expenses are modestly higher than Iowa or national averages
• Limited Diversity
The town is predominantly White (~87%) with modest racial and ethnic diversity and culturally conservative leanings. Options for cultural variety are minimal
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