Wednesday, October 28, 2009

House Tour - Union Springs, AL

Earlier this month, we took a trip to Union Springs, Alabama.
It's a small, laid-back town located about an hour and a half southeast of where we live. Century-old Victorian homes line many of the streets around town, and the ones that are for sale are priced incredibly low because of the towns proximity to the nearest large city (it's a 30 minute drive) and because they are in need of lots and lots of love.

Fun Facts about Union Springs:

Population: 2,989
Elevation: 522 feet
Antique houses: Tons
Number of seconds it took for us to fall head over heels in love with the house in the video you're about to see: One!


Isn't she beautiful? I swear to you, I've had two dreams about her since our visit!
:-)

Here's how the ad for the house reads:

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"Victorian House with lots of extras!
Columned porch with porch swing, columned entrance open to extra wide foyer, 5 mantles and hardwood floors throughout. Extra tall pocket doors and original wainscoting in the Dining Room. Large butlers pantry with built-in china cabinet, clawfoot tub in bathroom, irrigation system, magnolia and fruit trees.
Just needs a little TLC!
Sold "AS IS" but owner is willing to renovate more with price adjustment.
Fantastic Opportunity!"

$55,000

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Here are some photos we took while strolling around the house...


















What do you think? "The Lettered Cottage B&B"?
After all, the ad does say it "just needs is a little T(he) L(ettered) C(ottage)!"
;-)

K & L

167 comments:

Annika said...

This house is awesome! It looks so spacious and full of possibilities ... ! Thanks for sharing!

Laura said...

It's beautiful! At first I thought you were touring the very first home my husband and I bought when we were young-er newlyweds 15 yrs. ago, except our house had mostly been renovated beforehand but it was just 49,000.00 at the time. 11 ft. ceilings, 9 ft. pocket doors, columns, huge mantle with inset mirror, transom windows, large porch w/columns,
hardwood floors. It was a romantic house in Texas and we always thought it would be our B&B!
Love you guys and your blog!

Jennifer @ MillerMusings said...

I've never left a comment on here before, but I absolutely love what you've done with your little lettered cottage. I too have a LOVE of old houses and seeing ones in poor condition just breaks my heart. That house is absolutely amazing, and I can definitely see why you're dreaming over it. I think y'all should go for it, I'd love to see what you could do with that place!!

White cotton grass said...

Great house!

With a little TLC love it would turn in to a castle! ;)

have a nice day!

JR in Sweden said...

WHAT a gorgeous house! You guys would rock that place.

Unknown said...

Wow,I really understand why you fall in Love with this house. I wish I could have one of these too. But here at germany we don´t have such houses. So I have to take the 105 years old one, stone on stone build house of my grani. That´s not bad I think but just have small and not so hight rooms.
Wish you a nice and creativ day.
Christiane

Beautiful Day said...

What are you waiting for?! Seems like the perfect opportunity! And cheap as chips! You must be nearly finished your house, and then you'll have a new (old) house ready to go. Wendy xxx

B said...

Oh wow! It's gorgeous, I love the columns. Thanks for sharing :O)

Mom in High Heels said...

I watched the video and waited and waited for an exterior view of the house. When it finally popped up, I actually gasped. It's gorgeous.
If I were to live in AL I'd want one of the historic homes in Mobile. They are all so beautiful. I have a friend who lives in a bungalow that is simply stunning. The architectural details are often unexpected and incredibly delightful.
BTW, I love the song you chose for the video.

Beth@The Stories of A to Z said...

I think for $55K you should do whatever you need to in order to scoop that treasure up! I was sold the moment I saw the columns. Simply amazing, and in my mind's eye I can just see her come to life again. Get her.

Deb mcK said...

I love the old houses in Union Springs. If you haven't had the opportunity yet, check out the ones in Eufaula, AL (home tours every spring that are usually sold out early). Another town with some stunning homes is Brewton which is near me. Lots of timber money in the early days. Brewton is also the home of NDI which creates stunning artificial flower/plants and has an outlet store downtown. I enjoy your blog and projects.

Daryl at Vermont Cottage said...

It's gorgeous! Being practical, though, does it have heat and running water? Those are the two big things I look for in a reno, but that's because we'd have to live in it and work on it at the same time. You could really do a beautiful job with that house :).

amanda said...

OMG i would jump at this it is the most amazing house in such a beautiful town, and the price i can not believe the price, do you know how much we would pay for this in Australia, from 500,000 to 800,000, you are soooooo lucky in the US, i would grab this it has your names on it...........

Jess @ Frugal with a Flourish said...

What character!!! It would be hard to not dream about everything you could do there. That is a great find!

Lori said...

OMG ~ it is beautiful ~ such character and the price.... fantastic! I know it needs A LOT of TLC ~ but how could you NOT have dreams about her??

Honorablyfallen said...

I say shes got great bones L&K, I also say go for it! 55,000 HOLY POO!
What a deal and half!!! My husband and i bought a 170 year old farm house ( the oldest house in this antebellum town ) in Ivor Va, a village of 312, last year. I fell in love with the porch and and the huge over 6 foot tall and 3 foot wide doorway windows in all the rooms, on every wall. Our little house is about 1800 square feet but loaded with details. Like Bulls eye molding and 10 inch baseboard, even heart of pine plank flooring. You'll never look back once you do it. What a wonderful dream to have you two! -Sarahlynn
http://centuryoldhome.blogspot.com/

Alisa D. said...

It has you and Kevin written all over it. It needs you! It's beautiful now, but it would be amazing if you two got your hands on it.

Marcy {pine creek cottage} said...

It is amazing! I'm already dreaming about what you could do with that wonderful old home!

duchess said...

That house has you written all over it. So many great details - did you put in an offer?

Robyn said...

It's like the ad was written for YOU! LOVE love love it! THE mouldings, the foyer, the columns, the ceiling height, the LIGHT!

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Oh what a diamond in the rough!
I can just see the after. Yes, the Lettered Cottage is perfect.

People Who Know Me Would Say: said...

The possibilities are as limitless as the talent you each have!

It looks as though it was once so stately, while at the same time whispering romance. What a combo!

Sarah Parham said...

Are you going to buy it? For selfish reasons I hope you do - I would LOVE to watch you two transform it!!!!

Unknown said...

I say ya'll should go for it. I can already imagine what you and Kevin would do in there. That is not a bad price and maybe you could negotiate with the owner to get that price down even further. I think it would be a great investment because your readers would love to stay at your B & B.

Tales From My Empty Nest said...

What an amazing house!!!! I could totally see you guys renovating that place. I have always thought it would be so fun to run a bed and breakfast! My sister and her husband used to live in Brewton, Al(further south) and their town had some awesome old homes. Go for it!! You guys would do wonders fixing up that place!!! Love & blessings from NC!

myflsun said...

What a gorgeous house! It does need more than a little TLC, though. I think you guys are definitely capable of it! :)

MilkMaid said...

Killing. Me.

Le said...

Buy it! Your guys can do it! I am sure there might be historic preservation grants that would help to fund the restoration. You both have an amazing talent and passion for this! Go for it. Life here is so temporary.

Shari Sunday said...

Your blog is my inspiration in many ways. I am sure that you and Kevin will have a beautiful old house someday and it will be a showplace because of all the hard work and 'TLC' you have put into it. Congratulations on all your successes! I love your blog.

Shorely Chic said...

What a dream project!! So much to work with it's great!

geri said...

OH MY LORDY.
I am in love as well.
This is an awesome house that has your TLC all over it.

A new home, or B&B is exactly what would work for you both, especially at this price.
Some would run the other direction.
However we are talking Layla and Kevin who would take on this lovely, memory filled home as their personal challenge, embracing each new project.
You are both so ambitious and totally over loaded with creative and decorative talents and are pros at home re-construction.
Even more you have a love as I do for old homes that speak to your heart.

It was always a dream of mine to have a B&B,especially on Block Island, R.I.
Who knows, maybe one day with a winning Mega ticket. hehe

You guys would be an amazing INN COUPLE,In love with each other and your new "sit a spell" porch.
Not to mention it would keep you blogging for the next 50 years.
Keep Dreams always. geri.
P.S. You are both so fun to watch and listen to on your videos. So well done too.

Suzann said...

I would love to see you buy this. I can imagine how amazing it would be. Such a beautiful house. Such potential.

Claudia said...

Wow - it is gorgeous! Those high ceilings and the fireplace - and transoms! I can't believe it is only $55,000. What potential this little treasure has!

foggogs said...

unbelievable house! Up here in new england that price would not even cover a downpayment. It is such a clean slate that you could do anything and everything to. I can see why you like it.

Cute Beams said...

Lusting after this home! Thank you for sharing. I think you should take it on!

Sandy Shirley said...

Kevin and Layla - if you liked Union Springs, you would be mad for Eufaula! It's Union Springs times 10!

Chris Kauffman said...

I sure hope you are going to buy that baby , $55,000.00 I have never heard of such a house price , an SUV maybe but not a gorgeous house just waiting for love , sell that house of yours and buy that lady ...amazing , that house would be $355,000.00 in my city .
Chris
Just Beachy

{Emily} said...

I can totally see why you love this house! WOW! It's amazing and I can't believe it's only $55,000!!

The possibilities are endless!

Emily

Kasey said...

if you don't buy it I will!!!
omg...it's gorgeous girl...
i would die if there were houses for that price here.
I'm moving to Alabama!!
xo

Kasey said...

p.s. i think you need to come to my inspiring evening on the 5th of december....
you free?
xo

Southern Aspirations said...

oh my goodness, I love this house! Great bones! I'd love to pick up a little TLC-needed home in Alabama or Georgia.

Lisa said...

No wonder you are dreaming about her! I love that house! Can't you just visualize how amazing she would be with your TLC??? You can't manufacture that type of charm. It just has to be loved on to return to her glory! You are my very favorite blog!! Thanks for sharing and allowing me to dream right along with you!

Cheryl said...

That house looks like it has such potential. You and Kevin would really make it beautiful if you got your hands on it. I can see why you have dreamt about it twice already.
Yes, TLC B&B has a lovely ring to it.

Cheryl said...

That house looks like it has such potential. You and Kevin would really make it beautiful if you got your hands on it. I can see why you have dreamt about it twice already.
Yes, TLC B&B has a lovely ring to it.

Jess said...

I have been reading this blog for a long time and I don't think I have ever commented before, but today I MUST.
That house is perfect. To me anyways. I have dreamed of living in a house like that ever since I was a little girl. If you do get it and turn it into a B&B I would sign up to be the first guest!

Meg said...

Sounds like such a fun day! I too love older homes. That house is absolutely gorgeous - the details are incredible. You should definitely go for it!

Melissa Marie Head said...

You should buy it!! It is amazing and I can only imagine how gorgeous it would be after you and Kevin fix it up. I am not a fan of bed and breakfasts but would make an exception to visit yours.

Sandi @the WhistleStop Cafe said...

I think it has your name all over it!
Union Springs is full of treasures~ just waiting for y'all to explore them.

Tracy Wills said...

What a treasure this house could be for the both of you. I can only imagine how awesome it would look once you were done with it and for only 55,000, boy you couldn't even buy a mobile home in the bad part of town here in Tallahassee for 55, 000. Go for it!

Candace said...

BUY IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! That is my DREAM house!

Candy said...

Wow, what a home for an amazing price. Of course, it needs lot of "TLC" but...Wow. So when do you move in? ;-) I'd totally go visit the B&B!

Dianne said...

The first picture with the columns was a killer for me...wow! This house needs you! Poor Kevin would have to give up music though, there is so much to do in it. I say stay put and keep looking. :)

Mary said...

Oh my gosh Layla!! It is gorgeous...such potential! Reminds me so much of the house I grew up in! Oh, the things you guys could do with that beauty! Buy it! Buy it! ~mary~

Teresa said...

OMG! I love it. We have actually flipped 3 houses, the 1st an older home and I so wanted to keep it but we have a new farmhouse, but still not the same. The next was a new foreclosure and then the last was a smaller older home. I just love them. I wish, I wish I had an older home. Go for it. It is a big job though. Believe me, I know, well at least my husband does.

labluvr78 said...

OMG!!! If I were one to just pick up and move I would totally buy a house like that! I want one soooo bad but sadly we are currently stuck in a 1993 home we bought in 2006 at the height of the market :-( We will find a way... we will find a way...

And to you guys... Do it!

TheTomatoVine said...

Don't wait - you should buy this one now! It looks like it's full of so many wonderful possibilities & promise :)

Stephen and Larissa said...

Oh wow! It is gorgeous! I'm already picturing what it would look like with a little love. I bet it will get snatched up fast!!

Anonymous said...

ok! you both are so cute! i love it!and that house is wonderful! are ya gonna buy it? i would love to see what you you would do to it! love ya guys!

Julie @ Sweet Chaos said...

Please please buy her!! We'd buy it if it was near us! You'd ahve money left over for reno & that's important...She's gorgeous. Oh, the details. Bring her back & let us live vicariously through you guys! B&B it is!! Good luck ;). We're here for you every step of the way! LOL!

Unknown said...

I blogged about you and your awesome blog today. Go check it out. Thanks for all of your inspiration!

Gerry said...

Go for it! What are you waiting for? This sounds like a golden opportunity! You could work miracles with this house!

Jamie, the Very Worst Missionary said...

Is it so lame that your video gave me the chills?? hahaha! LOVE beautiful old houses and Cindy Lauper!

I hope your dream is realized sooner than you anticipate!

Anonymous said...

Made my heart skip a beat! We have remodeled a house in our little town that will be 100 years old in 2011. The fireplace has the exact mantle and the exact clawfoot bathtub as in your video. Ours is a much smaller house and had a very tall attic in it and so we turn it into a story and half. The walls upstairs had to be dormer. But I wouldnt trade it for the most beautiful or largest house in town!!

Debbie said...

This is amazing. What really surprises me is that the interior looks so much like the buildings at the Historical State Park where I am a Superintendent. What year was it built?

Unknown said...

Oh my goodness! Perfect fixer upper. Tons of potential!

Swan Family said...

You both could do some serious good damage in that house!! It's beautiful!

Meghann said...

Poor old house! I always feel so sad to see a beautiful house in bad shape like that. It could certainly be a beautiful house with many hours of reno's, but get a house inspection and make sure there aren't any rodents or termites!!

Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality said...

Wow, Layla! That place is a gem & what a price. I wish y'all could get it, don't know where Union Springs is, but boy oh boy, is that a beautiful place. SOOOOOO much potential! xo

Kelly said...

So, when are you kids gonna buy it, eh? Go for it! :)

erin's art and gardens said...

wowza! that house is amazing and i can see why you would be in love with her!! you could certainly work your magic on her, but...i hate to be the "buzz kill" here...try to picture yourselves actually living in that town...although the downtown had great buildings, it looked deserted? it's really the people that make a community... some friends of ours fell in love with an old home and fixed it up so cool, but they are completely unhappy with their boring town and the schools and no peers around and they will never be able to sell it for its location (big mistake)...there is a reason it is so cheap...as a hip young couple could you be happy there? just something to think about.

Kristi @ Addicted 2 Decorating said...

I can just picture that home completely renovated. Amazing! The doors, the moulding, the floors...wow. I can't believe the price. Sure, it needs a ton of work, but that price is still incredible!

Deanna said...

I want that house!

Bonnie said...

I'm dreaming already! I LOVE it! You should turn it into a B&B, can I book my reservation now?!?!

Carrie said...

I just died. Madly in love. Buy it...buy it fast...or else I will.

You guys are gems!

Anonymous said...

Kevin and Layla,
What a lovely place. I think the two of you would be wonderful host for a bed and breakfast. You know all your TLC followers would visit for sure. I can't wait to see what house the two of you get next.
Thanks for inspiring us all.
Wendy

Sarah Marie said...

Oh my gosh! I've been reading your blog for a few months now and I can't tell you how excited I was this morning when I opened up my Google Reader and saw your post! My family is all from Union Springs! My parents were both born and raised there...they moved to Florida a few years after they were married so that is where I was born and raised (I live in Nashville, TN now). But, my grandmother, some aunts and uncles, and a few of my cousins still live there and it is one of my favorite places to be! I LOVE Union Springs...I have so many wonderful memories of spending time visiting my grandparents and other family there! Looking forward to being there for Christmas! Thanks for your post. I'll have to pass it along to my family! :-)

Kimberly said...

Buy it! Buy it! Buy it!

Lissie24 said...

OH MY WORD!!!! LOVE IT!!! I have an obsession with old homes too, some people think I'm crazy! I get all giddy and giggly when I see homes like that! AMAZING!

Tote, Debby, Sammy and Caleb Jimenez said...

BUY IT!!!!!!
i love those tall doors! i think it's the perfect TLC!!! that house in my area would easily be $300,000 or more! even with the work it needs!

Cottage Dreamers said...

I would love to see what you guys could do with that house! We once bought a 1912 house for a similar price that had been badly mistreated. We poured almost 150k into fixing it back up in a year (full time.) It didn't have as much original character as yours but it was our favorite house project!

The Whispering Creek House said...

So awesome! MY heart is pounding!It is so amazing! I wish they built houses like this still i would love to find a blueprint and have it built where I live! We have a barn that is about 25 or more years old and We plan to build in the future! I would love the character of a house like this!Thanks for sharing!Hey i am doing a giveaway if you would like to stop by!

Anonymous said...

I'm thinking I live in the WRONG state.... (California)

Angie said...

OMG - this house is screaming for you to buy it!!! Please buy it and me and my boys from CA will come stay in your B&B when it's all done! Looks like a charming small town!

I'm Dominique said...

WOW I wish I lived there. You can buy houses similar to that here in Saskatoon (Canada) the only difference is oh atleast $300,000.000 and they probably need the same amount of work :/ you should probably buy it :)

Sharon@Sharon at Home said...

OMG how could you bear to leave? It would be amazing when it was completed with shiny windows, the floors gleaming, polished pocket doors, chandeliers and candle light.

A total fantasy home. I will dream about it too.

Kim @ Home Is Where The Heart Is said...

Wow, what an amazing home...so much potential!

Susan said...

It's beautiful. Great bones. The things you guys could do to it!!!

Shelley @ Born in a Barn said...

wow! in wyoming that house in that condition would list for three times that! those are few and far between out here! at those prices i would want to have 10 too!! my husband and i started out just like you two, 8 houses and 13 years of marriage later we are in our dream home! good luck, the mantle in the main room was stunning! thanks for the eye candy!!

Philigry said...

oh my lord! I love it, and the price is crazy!
I have to say that some of the pictures you took remind me a little of the house you are in now. of course, yours is in much better shape, but you know what I mean. it is very "you guys"
maybe it is supposed to be yours!

kelly@TearingUpHouses said...

of course it only took 1 second to fall in love with this place! i'm surprised it took that long. what great bones! i think a bed and breakfast would be WONDERFUL here.

i gasped when i saw the pricetag. you can't buy a closet for that in south florida. i'm jealous of the lucky duck who gets to live there!

kelly

Christina Rodrigues said...

wow what a gorgeous house!

Abbie said...

Wonderful! I'm a bit jealous b/c I have rooms and rooms of wallpaper to remove in my 99-yr-old house! But we are so blessed to have this house - small town has A LOT to do with price! We couldn't have purchased a house like this is any of the other places we've lived.

I can't wait to see what you do with this house or one like it in the future!

Unknown said...

I too love small towns with lots of charm and character. good thing you and your Hubby are in agreement about it, because me and my hubby are not. He's not really into old house, we're in conflict about it a lot! ;)

DecRenew Interiors said...

Isn't it fun to have a husband that shares the same joy you do? You would have this home fixed up in no time, lots of hard work but it would be a work of art when you are finished. Thanks for the tour.

Ruthie

Celeste Lux said...

I LOVE your blog, but this is the first time I've ever felt like posting a comment. You guys are young, talented and un-encumbered. This is the perfect time to take on a project like this....but let me just tell you that this is a lifestyle choice, a commitment. Things will never be completely done and you have to be okay with that. We got pregnant just as our first remodel was ending on our cottage farmhouse---things came to a SCREACHING halt after that. I'm just sharing all this from experience.....With that understanding, I say GO FOR IT!!!! Make the leap and never look back

Debbie said...

A.W.E.S.O.M.E.!! Can't believe only $55,000!!

Alyssa said...

You guys would make that house look amazing! Buy it! Buy it! Buy it! I love your blog by the way!

decorator to the stars said...

at $55,000 seems like a steal unless there's structural. i paid $25,000 for my victorian in 1985 built in 1835, stop by for a visit & coming soon on my blog a fall tour :) gio

IEA said...

i screams your name! what a pitty you are not moving right now, I could totally see you guys in that house!!! you said you like old houses but arn't you afraid of asbestos, totally messed up plumbing systems etc.? Iris

IEA said...

after reading thru some comments i must add that if you would to but it and beautify it and then make an B&B you could also toally offersome sort of class arts there!!! :-) Iris

Anonymous said...

OMG Layla, You and Kevin MUST do this. It is calling your name. It was made for you. It's serendipity. It's you without the polish. It's mean to be..It's your soul mate. Why haven't you signed yet? I'll book my room and a date as soon as you do!!

Mary Anne

Cottage on the Hill said...

WHAT are you guys waiting for??? That is a beautiful house at a great price!

Unknown said...

that house is fabulous!! you could do so much with it! and a nice price too!!
our house is 210 years old and we LOVE it!

Kathy said...

Oh what you two could do to this house! Awesome. Just make sure the foundation is ok and that there are no termites. You'll probably have to redo the wiriing and the plumbing too, but at that price - WOW! Love the pocket doors too. We've put them in all of our inside doorways and love them.

Anonymous said...

WOW...This really calls your name out!
DO IT! DO IT!

You would be the best thing that ever happened to this place...

p.s.
Now i know where i'm moving when my kids graduate!

Jacci said...

Kevin.

Layla.

Guys.

No kidding - I sat here with my hand on my mouth and tears in my eyes.

Oh, the possibilities for an old house like that.

~Jacci

The Grange at Parkwood said...

The drawback to houses like these (at least in my area) is that they are usually in less than desirable areas of town.

It's a shame to see the craftsmanship and beauty in these wonderful homes going to waste.

Meg said...

I'm sure you have, but if you haven't, you should visit Fairhope, AL! I lived there for five years and it is the cutest little town by the bay ever. And then you'll be close to all of the historic homes in Mobile and also close to the beach!

I adore that house and adore your style. I hope you get it so we can see what magic you'd create!

Leslie @ DIY Diaries said...

YES! Buy it. It's like Field of Dreams... if you build it, they will come.

Carla said...

My husband and I are looking at the same kind of houses you are. We love all the same things you do. We currently live in a 100 year old house but we have outgrown it and need something much bigger.
I can only imagine what you two would do with that house. Becasue it is amazing how much character you have made your house have when it really didn't have any when you bought it. So if you started with something like that I can only imagine.
I don't know how big of a town you currently live in but a town of 2500 that is small. I may not love a 30 min drive to get things.

Julianna Farmer said...

A-MA-ZING!

Mai-Brit @ thisfulllife said...

What an amazing place - I can see how it's stayed on your mind.

Lindsey said...

Wow! That is an amazing house! I hope you're getting it! I bet if you did do a B&B you'd have tons of visits from all of your blog readers! :)

Martha said...

That is one of the most BEAUTIFUL houses I have EVER seen! Thanks for sharing!

mariondee-designs said...

Hi Kevin and Layla, living in Australia I can only dream of houses like that! The tour of the houses, as you were going down the street gave me goose bumps as all I could say was OMG..OMG! If reincarnation is true, that is where I want to live.. in Alabama! That house is gorgeous and for $55,000 a true bargain. Lots of work but I know it will be a labour of love for both of you! Now that you've had a taste for that house, don't think it will be long before you move!! good luck to both of you, and it was so nice to see you on video too! take care, Maryann

Laurel said...

What an opportunity! I can't even imagine what you could do with a gorgeous house like that. Oh the possibilities.

Love the video, you two are super cute, even though now I need a cookie....

And adore the B & B idea, but wouldn't that make Layla have to cook????

Blue Muse said...

You should SO take that house! $55,000?? Are you kidding me? You couldn't buy a closet here for that! (coastal southern cali) I love all of those columns and those huge windows... So full of amazing possibility... so so so much.
xo Isa

Mallie said...

I love this house!!! I live in Columbus, MS. Me and my husband are wanting to move in a little town called Fayette, AL that has tons of older houses. The one we like the most is 95,000, but it has been updated a little bit. If you are able and willing I would so buy that house now!! There is nothing like living in a Small Southern town esp in an beautiful older home!

Nicole @ the style hatch said...

What a beautiful house and a fantastic price!!! The both of you would have so much fun fixing that house up, and I would have so much fun waiting for new posts from you (as I always do)

I think you should buy it!!! Thanks for sharing!

Nicole

http://sobeautifullyinspired.blogspot.com/

http://ourcountrychic.blogspot.com/

Somewhere In The Sun said...

I can't even imagine what y'all could do with this home, but I would love to follow along and see!!!

Bev said...

That house is so TLC....... fabulous !!!!

Erin Southwell said...

Does it have a guest bedroom for me, Mr. Marvelous, and the baby?? :) Seriously the baby was kicking like crazy during that video, so he clearly thinks it is a winner, just like his mama!! And so long as you get indoor plumbing for your $55,000, you cannot go wrong! I now know from experience that the mantles in that place are probably worth more than 55k! I was sold before seeing the exterior, but the exterior took my breath away. ::Buy! Buy! Buy! BUy!!::

Imagery by Kimberly said...

(((Layla)))

Remember, dreams DO come true.


Love,
Kim

Unknown said...

Being from the Montgomery area, we have family that lived in Union Springs. My great-grandparents are buried there, and we have visited lots of times. I love the houses in that area, and am so glad you got the opportunity to visit some of them. What a great place to have a B&B!!

Perfectly Lonely said...

I predict the housing prices will soon be on the rise in that area after that showing.Absolutely stunning.Seems such a waste that we have so many of these beauties here in the south that have been allowed to fall into such sad states.I wish I was in AL instead of here in MS..I WOULD SNAP HER UP IN A HEARTBEAT!!

lyla said...

i'll be dreaming about her too...LOVE the house.

Anonymous said...

Here is a little blurp I found about it. It was marked at $75,000
**********************************
Station agent E.J. Pierce built this quintessential Queen Anne in Union Springs, Alabama in 1907, dressing it up with pre-cut moldings, mantels, and cabinetry. The 2,300-square-foot home features walnut wainscoting, oak over mantels, and 12-foot-high Corinthian columns that divide the house's 10-foot-wide entryway from its octagonal front parlor. For the past seven years, the house has stood empty. When the owner of a local hunting lodge grew worrisome about its condition, he decided to snatch it up, hastily replacing the leaky roof to prevent any rain damage. Now he's looking for someone to give the old place a full restoration.
***********************************And here is the link with a photo:
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20278529_20621121,00.html

Amber said...

wow $55,000 what a steal! You guys would do wonders to that place!

Shana said...

Wow! Amazing house. And what possibilities! I'm trying to convince my hubby that we should move there. lol. :)

Meghan said...

So beautiful! I can't believe you're posting it...I'd be worried someone else would snatch it out from under me.

Melissa said...

Layla & Kevin,
My husband and I were born and raised in a area where old homes are a hot commodity (I would kill for a price like that!) because they tell a story and people tend to appreciate them. We were living in a small 1950's ranch (that we had redone) with 3 young daughters. It wasn't easy but we made the choice to buy an 1850 year old farmhouse because old homes had always been a draw for us. It has been difficult trying to redo this old girl while trying to make sure our daughters are having all of their needs met but I wouldn't change it for the world. In the end I feel they will be better people for it. I guess what I am just trying to say is to follow your hearts. There is something to be said for old homes...it's not easy but there is definitely a fantastic feeling within their walls. They need us and we need them. Good luck on your journey, wherever it may take you :)

Heather at Happy Chippy Junk said...

Beautiful!!

Sue said...

Dear Santa,
I know what I want for Christmas
Sue

Kelly said...

I blogged about that same house back in June when it was listed for $75k. Was amazed at the price drop. I LOVE the high ceilings and those columns are outrageously beautiful!

Country Contemporary said...

What a grand old house! I'd be snapping it up as soon as I had the chance! It's calling your names! Go for it!

Anonymous said...

You have to rescue her! She is calling for you to come and save her. Can you imagine how beautiful she would be once you worked your magic on her? I don't think it was an accident that you toured her. She is under your skin now.
Do it!

Betsy said...

love union springs..i have a friend who grew up there and one of my best friends lives in eufaula!! i know of some houses there that need some TLC!
good luck :)

amber said...

I've visited here a few times and always enjoy your creative eye and great sense of humor! :)

wow! this house is incredible.. what potential~ I've always thought it would be cool to open a B&B. though I do like sleeping in.. so I'm not sure how great of a host I'd make. ;)

Look forward to seeing what you guys do with the place!

Enjoy your day~ <3

amber.

Ramona said...

Absolutely!!!!

Smiles ~ Ramona

Delchick42 said...

This house has so much great potential! My sister and I used to dream about starting a B&B when were older. We have alot of old Victorian homes in our town. I love old houses. Thanks for sharing.

All things nice... said...

That house is sooo beautiful I love the columns they are really pretty. It is sooo cheap, you wouldnt get the ruins of an old house in Ireland for that money, you might get a shed if you were lucky. Thats a bargain,Id buy it if I had money and didn't live in Ireland

All things nice..

Darlene - Our Creative Life said...

I think you've found your next project for you & Kevin!

Destiny said...

Oh My! Think of how beautiful this house could be if fixed up! What a beautiful find! If I could move back south, I'd take it in a heartbeat!!! I could always use ANOTHER project to procrastinate on! Love your blog :)

Anonymous said...

O...M...G!!! I looooove this house. It is....(I'm speachless). The price tag alone gives me goosebumps. Um...I will definitely be dreaming about this house and what I would like to do with it. Wish it were closer (I'm in NJ)so me & hubby could take a nice scenic ride out to see it. Man, I wish you guys would get it...I'd be MORE obsessed with your blog then I already am...!

Anonymous said...

What are you waiting for? Buy it!!

I'll bet the owner would work out all sorts of deals for you in order to get it off his hands, judging by what one of your reader's posted.

Ask for:
-Owner Financing
-Closing costs paid by Owner
-Reduce Price?
-Closing date 6-9 months from now.

The biggest question would have to be, do you want to live in Union Springs?

Don't do anything too spontanious.
This really would be a big decision. Sweet Dreams...

Kristen in Atlanta

Tricia said...

Oh, be still my heart! I love old southern homes. My husband and I lived in the South so briefly, but the architecture will stay with me forever.

XO*Tricia

Amanda said...

Sadly, you may not get your money back out of a house in Union Springs. The houses are beautiful and so old, but that is about all there is to offer. Eufaula, Selma, and Mobile have beautiful homes as well.
It's such a shame to see the homes falling apart.

Patti said...

Beautiful, I think YES, YES, YES it should be the TLC B&B. Such beautiful structure this house has, it is a pallet waiting for you two to come and play. I can only imagine the true beauty that would be brought forth.

truly blessed said...

OMW what a fabulous house! It has ya'lls name written all over it!!! The possibilities are limitless (of course with a bit of $$). No wonder you've been dreaming about it. ♥

Jen - Balancing Beauty and Bedlam said...

No stinkin' WAY!! The columns alone are worth $55,000. WOW! Can't wait to see what you'll do with it, since it is calling your name.

John Arrington said...

This house was my grandmother and grandfathers house! When I was growing up in Union Springs we spent many hours there. I am told that my mom and dad were married in front of the beautiful fireplace and mantel. Would love to see you buy and restore. Good Luck!

Holly Austin said...

OH.MY.WORD. I love :) And say GO FOR IT!!!

Carla said...

Absolutely beautiful. I think it's calling to you.

Unknown said...

That is so amazing. I want to move there !

Linda@ Lime in the Coconut said...

Simply beautiful! Buy it!

Roeshel said...

Wow. I'm the same way...I grew up in a house that was built in 1850 but didn't appreciate it at the time. I find myself drawn to holder homes too now. My dream is to own an old Victorian in the south too one day. I loved the video and the tour. Thanks so much for sharing!

Roeshel

Anonymous said...

Wow! You guys HAVE to get it. Just absolutely amazing....And for that price. You could do great things in transforming it...

the Hawks said...

Why don't you buy it now? If my husband and I lived in AL, we'd snatch that baby up in a heartbeat. How many square feet did it have? I almost wish you would purchase it so we could see what you do with it!!!

Honey said...

Two things;

1) If you bought it - what would you name it? Come on, not an odd question since you (Layla) HAVE been dreaming about the house.

2) Maybe we boycott TLC until you buy the US house... :P hehe (not that I could ever stay away, but man that US house looks perfect for you guys.

Teri and her Stylish Adventure Cats said...

Amazing house, amazing you heard from the grandson of the previous owners, and amazing to know you two could take this one and make it your own. I'd love to live in your little cottage...

Jennifer said...

This has has wonderful "Bones"....I too love to check out older homes. This house is a steal. It has TLC written all over it.

The Real Estate Talker said...

K&L you can do it. With both of you working together on your dream, of owning an older house, anything is possible. I live in a house built in 1901, and I LOVE it, so much character, and history.
Go for it. Good Luck, let us know.
I am a real estate agent, and that price is GREAT
Cheryl

Its So Very Cheri said...

Oh I love older homes too. I grew up in a big older home and would love to redo a home like that.
Thanks for sharing
Cheri

Christy @ MCH PHOTOGRAPHY said...

love this house. I would love to see someone save it.

Stephanie said...

Oooo how absolutely beautiful is that!! I can just see it now, how perfect my furniture would look. How snuggly my kitty cat would be in a built in window seat. Thanks for sharing such a gorgeous space.

Jeannette said...

My husband and I came very close to purchasing this house.It is indeed a beauty.It would be wonderful if someone would purchase it and make it even more spectacular then it is now.

We instead purchased a 3600 sq foot house in Lamar Mo..Closer to my family but over a hundred years old.I still dream of this house though.

Susan said...

You should take a day trip to Eufaula, Alabama and visit some of the old homes there!!