A Hidden Gem Awaiting Transformation
Nestled in the scenic outskirts of Augusta, Kansas, this distinctive 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers a rare blend of space, potential, and privacy. Situated on an expansive 4.2-acre lot, the property provides a unique opportunity for those who value rural charm, wide-open spaces, and long-term investment potential. Though the residence currently requires extensive renovation, its large lot size, multiple outbuildings, and convenient location make it a compelling choice for the right buyer.
Originally constructed in 1960, the home retains elements of mid-century American architecture, offering a solid foundation for creative redesign. Whether you’re an investor looking for a project, a land developer envisioning future possibilities, or a homeowner seeking acreage with flexibility, this property holds exceptional promise once properly restored.
Property Overview
Spacious Layout and Comfortable Dimensions
The interior of this Augusta home covers approximately 1,743 square feet of living space, offering a comfortable floor plan ideal for a variety of lifestyles. The layout includes four well-sized bedrooms and three full bathrooms, allowing for both privacy and shared family spaces. A combination of laminate and carpet flooring complements the warm tones throughout the house, while large windows welcome natural light into the main living areas.
The open kitchen and dining area create a welcoming hub for family gatherings or everyday living. With a little modernization, this space could easily become the heart of the home—perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying home-cooked meals with a view of the sprawling acreage outside.
The property also includes a separate living room, offering flexibility for different interior design possibilities. Whether transformed into a family entertainment room, formal sitting area, or home office, the layout encourages adaptability.
Interior Features and Amenities
Inside, you’ll find essential home features that provide a strong foundation for updates and improvements. The property currently includes:
- Kitchen Appliances: Refrigerator, range, and dishwasher
- Ceiling Fans: Installed in select rooms for air circulation and comfort
- Heating and Cooling System: Forced air powered by natural gas, paired with central air conditioning for year-round climate control
While the systems and appliances will need to be inspected and potentially replaced during restoration, their presence provides a solid starting point for renovation planning.
Outdoor Living and Land Features
One of the most attractive aspects of this property is its 4.2 acres of land, offering endless possibilities for outdoor living, hobbies, and expansion. The large, irregularly shaped lot has already been fenced, making it horse-friendly and suitable for livestock, pets, or small-scale agricultural use.
Outdoor amenities include:
- Wood Deck – Ideal for relaxing evenings, outdoor dining, or entertaining guests
- Concrete Patio – A durable, low-maintenance space for gatherings or recreation
- Detached 3-Car Garage – Provides ample storage for vehicles, tools, or hobby equipment
- Additional Outbuildings – Perfect for use as workshops, storage sheds, or potential studio spaces
The wide-open acreage allows for creative land use—whether for gardening, hobby farming, recreational activities, or even future development projects.
The Property’s Setting
Located in the peaceful community of Augusta, the property combines rural serenity with convenient access to essential amenities. Residents in this area appreciate the balance between small-town living and proximity to Wichita, which is only a short drive away. The neighborhood offers access to good schools, local shops, and outdoor recreation, including parks, trails, and nearby lakes.
For buyers seeking a property that offers privacy without isolation, this home’s location provides the perfect balance—secluded enough to enjoy nature, yet close enough to daily conveniences.
Condition and Key Considerations
Important Note on Property Condition
While this home offers undeniable potential, it is essential for interested buyers to understand that the property is being sold strictly “as-is.” The current condition of the residence requires major rehabilitation before it can be safely occupied.
The most critical issue is water contamination caused by crude oil infiltration into the private well. This contamination renders the home unlivable in its present state, as the well water cannot be used safely for drinking, cooking, or bathing. Addressing this issue will require professional environmental remediation and the installation of a new water system.
As a result:
- Traditional mortgage financing will likely not be available.
- Cash buyers or those with access to private financing are best suited for this purchase.
- The seller will not complete any repairs or water treatment prior to closing.
- Plumbing, HVAC systems, and the water heater will all need full replacement after remediation.
Buyers considering this property should be experienced in major renovation projects or prepared to invest in comprehensive restoration to make the home habitable again.
Tax and School District Information
The property falls within the Augusta School District, providing access to elementary, middle, and high schools known for their supportive learning environments. Families with children can benefit from the district’s commitment to education, extracurricular activities, and community engagement.
- Annual Property Taxes: Approximately $4,384 (as of 2024)
- School District: Augusta Unified School District
These details offer transparency for potential buyers calculating long-term ownership costs.
Investment Potential and Long-Term Vision
Despite its current uninhabitable condition, this property presents significant investment potential for those with vision and resources. Its combination of large acreage, multiple structures, and prime location make it a versatile asset once restored.
Potential future uses include:
1. Residential Redevelopment
Buyers can renovate or rebuild the existing structure to create a modern family home, luxury farmhouse, or rural retreat. With over four acres available, there’s ample space for landscaping, gardens, or additional structures such as a guesthouse or barn.
2. Hobby Farming or Equine Property
The fenced lot and existing outbuildings make it a strong candidate for equestrian use or hobby farming. Owners could introduce small-scale livestock, develop stables, or cultivate produce for personal use.
3. Storage and Workshop Space
The large detached three-car garage and multiple outbuildings are ideal for vehicle storage, woodworking, metalwork, or other hobbies requiring workspace. After the water issue is resolved, these facilities could also be used for business or creative pursuits.
4. Future Development Opportunity
Given the acreage and flexible zoning potential in the Augusta area, the property might appeal to investors looking to subdivide or redevelop in the long term. As surrounding communities grow, the demand for spacious rural properties with proximity to city centers continues to increase.
Financial and Practical Considerations
Before purchasing, buyers should carefully budget for remediation and renovation costs. The most significant financial considerations include:
- Water System Replacement: Drilling a new well or connecting to municipal water, plus necessary filtration systems
- Plumbing Overhaul: Replacement of pipes and fixtures contaminated by crude oil
- HVAC System Replacement: Installing new heating and cooling systems after remediation
- Structural Updates: Assessing and repairing any areas affected by water exposure or inactivity
- Interior Renovations: Updating flooring, paint, kitchen, and bathrooms after infrastructure repairs
While the $50,000 listing price reflects these challenges, the value lies in the land, location, and redevelopment potential.
Community and Lifestyle Benefits
Beyond the property’s immediate features, Augusta offers a welcoming, small-town lifestyle appreciated by families and retirees alike. The city provides essential amenities such as grocery stores, restaurants, and healthcare facilities, while maintaining a friendly community feel. Residents enjoy parks, trails, and community events that promote a sense of belonging and connection.
The town’s proximity to Wichita allows for easy access to employment opportunities, cultural attractions, and major shopping centers while still maintaining a peaceful rural atmosphere.
Environmental Responsibility
The issue of water contamination requires careful attention, but it also presents an opportunity for responsible environmental stewardship. Buyers can play an active role in restoring the land’s natural integrity. Working with environmental professionals to remediate the crude oil contamination will not only make the property livable again but also contribute to preserving local groundwater quality for the broader community.
Such restoration efforts can potentially increase the property’s long-term value and align with sustainable homeownership practices.
Potential for Customization and Creativity
Unlike many pre-built suburban homes with fixed designs, this property offers a blank canvas for customization. Buyers can reimagine every detail—from floor plans and finishes to landscaping and outbuilding use. Whether you envision a modern farmhouse, rustic retreat, or multi-generational family home, the existing structure and acreage provide endless creative opportunities.
With proper investment and a thoughtful renovation strategy, the property could become a showcase of transformation—turning an overlooked fixer-upper into a one-of-a-kind Kansas estate.
Market Perspective
Augusta and surrounding areas have seen growing interest from buyers seeking larger lots and rural living spaces. As remote and hybrid work continue to influence lifestyle choices, properties with acreage have become increasingly desirable. Even in need of renovation, this home’s combination of land size, accessibility, and potential sets it apart from smaller, higher-priced urban listings.
For investors, this means a chance to acquire real property at a low entry cost and significantly enhance its value through targeted upgrades.
Summary of Key Details
Final Thoughts
This property represents a unique opportunity for the right buyer—a chance to transform a challenged home into a thriving estate or profitable investment. While extensive work is needed to restore livability, the land, size, and structure offer solid potential. For those with vision, resources, and patience, this property in Augusta, Kansas, can evolve from a renovation challenge into a rewarding real estate success story.
The combination of affordable pricing, large acreage, and redevelopment possibilities makes it ideal for experienced investors, builders, or buyers who enjoy hands-on projects. With careful planning and professional remediation, the property can regain its value and stand as a testament to the benefits of thoughtful restoration.
Disclaimer
All information provided is based on publicly available data and should be independently verified by potential buyers. Environmental assessments and inspections are strongly recommended before purchase. The property is being sold strictly “as-is”, with no warranties or guarantees by the seller regarding condition or habitability.
