c.1940 South Carolina Fixer Upper For Sale on One Acre $195K

Large 5BR/3BA Older Center Hall-Style Colonial Home w/Wrap Around Front Porch on 1-Acre Lot in a Small-Town Location!! The Lot is Flat w/Some Tall and Mature Magnolia Trees Plus Plenty of Additional Room to Roam!! Call Now, Come See, and Make This One Your New Place to Call Home!!

• 5bed
• 3bath
• 4,096sqft
• 1acre lot
• Circa 1940

More South Carolina Properties

Pros

• Unmatched Affordability: Bishopville is one of the most affordable places to live in South Carolina. As of 2026, the median home value is approximately $129,400, which is about 54% below the national average. For retirees or those looking to own property with minimal debt, the value here is exceptional.

   

• Unique Cultural Identity: The town famously embraces the legend of the Lizard Man of Scape Ore Swamp.The annual Lizard Man Stomp (scheduled for June 27, 2026) brings the community together with live music, vendors, and “monster-inspired” family fun, giving the town a quirky, distinctive personality.

   

• Pearl Fryar Cotton Topiary Garden: Bishopville is home to one of the most celebrated folk art gardens in the world. Pearl Fryar’s internationally recognized topiaries provide a stunning, peaceful landmark for residents and a consistent draw for visitors.

   

• Sparse Suburban Feel: If you value space and privacy, Bishopville offers a “sparse suburban” atmosphere. It’s a place where you can own a significant plot of land without the density or noise of nearby Columbia or Florence.

   

• Proximity to Major Arteries: Located right off I-20, Bishopville offers surprisingly easy access to larger hubs. You can be in Florence in 30 minutes or Columbia in about 50 minutes, making it a viable “quiet base” for commuters.

Cons

• Economic & Job Limitations: The local economy is modest, with major employment concentrated in the South Carolina Department of Corrections, local education, and retail (like Food Lion and Dollar General). High-growth corporate or tech opportunities are virtually non-existent within town limits, usually requiring a commute.

• Education Ratings: The Lee County School District generally receives average to below-average ratings. While the student-teacher ratio is favorable (approx. 10 to 1), state test proficiency scores in math and reading have historically lagged behind the state average, which is a key consideration for families.

   

• Limited Amenities: While there are local staples and a few bars and restaurants, Bishopville lacks a diverse commercial scene. Residents often find themselves driving to Sumter or Hartsville for “big box” shopping, movie theaters, or specialized medical care.

• Safety Perceptions: Crime rates in the area can be a point of concern. Some neighborhoods see higher rates of property crime, and the overall “Crime & Safety” grade for the town often sits in the C-minus range on national databases.

   

• “Quiet” Lifestyle: For some, the slow pace is a pro, but for others, it can feel stagnant. There is very little “nightlife” or activities for teenagers and young adults outside of school sports and community festivals.