A historic fixer-upper in San Antonio is on the market for any buyer brave enough to face the work needed to restore the $700,000 property — and possibly fend off a few ghosts.
The home was built in 1890 by renowned San Antonio architect James Riely Gordon, who constructed the Bexar County Courthouse, a structure added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1977.
Gordon, known for his dramatic Romanesque Revival style, later moved to Dallas and then New York City, where his profile rose even further. Indeed, by the time of his death, he was so entrenched in the Big Apple that Texas wasn’t even mentioned in his New York Times obituary.
It’s clear that a master’s hand was at work with this three-story property just a few blocks away from Woodlawn Lake, where some of the most unique architecture in the city can be found.
However, it’s also true that this old gal has seen better days.
Originally constructed as an orphanage, the property has also had lives as a Catholic mission and most recently, a bed and breakfast. And judging by the boarded up door in the kitchen, it might have also been the setting of a zombie invasion, but we could be wrong.
Its sheer number of bedrooms (11!) and bathrooms (eight!) still makes the property conducive for something beyond a single-family home. The listing offers up ideas such as a boutique hospitality concept, event venue, offices or mixed use. A grand restoration would be required to convert it into a purely residential property, but that too is within the realm of possibility.
What’s clear is that this architectural gem is worth the TLC.
“Historic character is found throughout, including original hardwood floors, a grand staircase, wooden balcony, tin roof, original windows, and timeless clawfoot tubs,” its listing states. “Many historic elements have been preserved over the years, maintaining the integrity and story of the home while offering a canvas for thoughtful updates and restoration.”
Hey, maybe the ghosts can pick up a hammer.
This home is listed by Shane and Clint Neal with eXp Realty
All photos and listing info via Realtor.com.
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