c.1920 Two Bedroom Indiana Handyman Special Under $40K

901 Lawndale Ave, South Bend, IN 46628   $39,900

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: BEER, BRAD

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Pros

1. Affordable Cost of Living

   • Overall living expenses are ~15–26% below the U.S. average; housing is particularly inexpensive—median home around $165K–177K, rent about $850–1,155/month

2. Strong Culture & Vibrant Community

   • Home to the University of Notre Dame and IU South Bend, offering sports (Notre Dame football, minor-league baseball), arts (Symphony, Performing Arts), and events like Fusion Fest

3. Outdoor Access & Unique Amenities

   • Enjoy kayaking/fishing on the St. Joseph River, biking trails, and the nation’s first artificial whitewater course (East Race)

4. Growing Job Market & Tech Investment

   • Strong sectors in education, healthcare, manufacturing, and rising tech, thanks to downtown fiber expansion, data initiatives, and Ignition Park developments

5. Diverse & Neighborly Culture

   • South Bend ranks A+ for diversity, and locals frequently praise its friendliness and tight-knit feel

6. Good Transit Access & Connectivity

   • Options include Transpo bus system, ride-share, commuter rail to Chicago, plus a local airport—all supporting easy travel

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⚠️ Cons

1. High Crime in Pockets

   • Overall crime (37 per 1,000 residents) is elevated; higher on the west and southeast sides, though safer zones exist

2. Brutal Winters

   • Long, cold, snowy winters with average January temps around 20°F—typical for the Midwest

3. Limited Nightlife & Walkability

   • Outside downtown, entertainment is sparse and nightlife limited; many locals rely on cars .

4. Public Transit Not Ideal

   • Bus routes are limited and inconsistent. Most residents drive even short distances

5. Income & Poverty Disparities

   • Per-capita income is under $20K (vs. ~$34K U.S.), and a quarter of residents live in poverty—significant disparities persist

Here are some pros and cons of living in the Near Northwest neighborhood of South Bend:

Pros

1. Community Feel: The neighborhood has a strong sense of community with friendly residents and local events.
2. Historic Charm: Many homes feature beautiful historic architecture, adding character to the area.
3. Accessibility: Close proximity to downtown South Bend provides easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
4. Parks and Green Spaces: Several parks are available for recreation, offering space for outdoor activities.
5. Diversity: The neighborhood is known for its diverse population, enriching the community experience.

Cons

1. Crime Rates: Some areas may experience higher crime rates, which can be a concern for residents.
2. Older Infrastructure: Some homes and public facilities may require updates or maintenance due to their age.
3. Limited Amenities: While there are local shops, the availability of larger retail stores and services may be limited compared to other areas.
4. Traffic Issues: Congestion can occur, especially during peak hours, making commuting more challenging.
5. Economic Variability: The economic stability of the area can be inconsistent, affecting property values and local businesses.

 

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This was the home of Thomas S. Sparks (1883-1942) and his wife Flora (1882-1979). The couple married in 1915 and never had children. THomas worked as an electrician for an automobile manufacturer. After his death in 1942 at the age of 59 from bladder cancer, Flora continued to live in the home. She owned the home outright, but to earn income, she gave music lessons out of the home.

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