c.1925 South Dakota Farmhouse on 5 Acres $140,000
OHU50K Notes $140,000
Realtor Comments
Peaceful and scenic 5 +/- acre homestead that has been owned by one family for a century! 4+ bedroom, two-story home with a spacious yard surrounded by mature trees. The main floor has one bedroom, a partial kitchen area, living/dining room, enclosed front porch, and entry/mudroom with a sink. The second floor has one bathroom and three bedrooms plus a flex space that could be used as a small bedroom or office or combined with an adjacent space. From the second floor are stairs to a spacious unfinished attic space, ideal for storage with potential for conversion to additional living space. There are some original built-ins, hardwood floors, and woodwork that lend character to this 1925 home. The home has not had significant updates, but is habitable and has tremendous potential as a restoration project! Mechanicals are functional. The electrical panel was updated in 2001 but the wiring is the original knob and tube. The radiators and heating pipes are original, with a propane hot water boiler that replaced the coal boiler in 1981. Windows are original to the home. Steel siding is in good condition. The roof is approximately 15 years old. The property has a well for household water, drilled in 1994, and a septic system that may need repair or replacement. There are two outbuildings that have some useful life remaining. The property will be surveyed and platted to encompass approximately 5 acres, with an easement granted for the driveway. Seller and buyer will collaborate on the exact property boundaries. Conveniently located on a paved county road approximately 1 mile from Interstate 29. Fargo, North Dakota is one hour north and Watertown, South Dakota is one hour south.
- 4 bed
- 1 bath
- Build date 1925
If interested in a property, pleases 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.
Pros
1. Low Cost of Living & Affordable Housing
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Rosholt’s overall cost of living is about 8% below the national average.
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Housing is particularly affordable—median home prices are around $109,400–$116,700, which is approximately 41% lower than the national average.
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Median rent is also significantly lower, at about $666, versus roughly $950 nationally.
2. Strong Employment & Income Metrics
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Median household income is around $62,375, in line with national figures.
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Per capita income ranges from $29,800 to $33,200, close to or slightly below national levels.
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Rosholt features a low unemployment rate (~2.3%–5.5%), outperforming both state and national averages.
3. Exceptional Safety
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Crime rates—including violent and property crimes—are among the lowest nationwide, earning an A+ in Crime & Safety ratings.
4. High Homeownership & Community Stability
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Over 76% of residents own their homes, compared to 65% nationwide.
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The small population fosters a tight-knit, welcoming community feel noted by residents.
5. Good Livability & Walkability
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Rosholt ranks above average for livability in South Dakota, with residents highlighting walkability, friendliness, and a strong sense of community.
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Surprisingly, walkability is rated excellent, uncommon for rural towns.
6. Favorable Taxes & Infrastructure
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There’s no state income tax in South Dakota.
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Sales tax is modest—about 4.5%, lower than the U.S. average (~7%).
Cons
1. Limited Population & Rural Isolation
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Rosholt is very small—the population is around 379–430 people.
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The small size can lead to fewer services, amenities, and social opportunities.
2. Fewer Amenities & Need for Driving
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While walkable in parts, many amenities—shopping, services—are not nearby, making a vehicle essential.
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Public transportation is nearly nonexistent.
3. Job Market Is Modest & Narrow
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Employment growth over the past year declined slightly (-2.8%), with projected future growth (22%) below the national pace (33.5%).
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Local economy relies heavily on sectors like agriculture, transportation, healthcare, and wholesale.
4. Climate & Outdoor Options Limited
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Weather can be less comfortable—fewer mild days compared to average climates.
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Outdoor recreation opportunities are fewer, though the rural setting offers its own charms.
5. Racial & Cultural Homogeneity
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The community is predominantly White (around 96%), with limited ethnic diversity
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Cultural variety is modest, which may feel insular to newcomers.
6. Fixed-Line Internet May Be Slow
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While mobile internet speeds are good, fixed-line broadband may be slow or inconsistent.
