Historic Windber Mansion with Modern Upgrades: A Rare Opportunity at 1401 Somerset Ave
Nestled in the heart of Windber, Pennsylvania, 1401 Somerset Avenue stands as a remarkable testament to timeless craftsmanship, architectural elegance, and smart modern living.
Priced at $175,000, this grand historic mansion is more than just a beautiful residence—it’s a unique opportunity to own a piece of Windber’s history while benefiting from income-producing potential.
With nine bedrooms, six bathrooms, and two renovated apartments, this expansive property offers unmatched versatility for homeowners, investors, or those seeking a combination of both.
From the moment you arrive, the scale and character of this home make a lasting impression. The stately façade, welcoming porch, and historic detailing hint at the grandeur that awaits inside.
Whether you dream of restoring a historic mansion to its full glory, creating a multi-generational living space, or living comfortably while rental income helps offset your mortgage, this property delivers on every front.
A Grand Entrance into Timeless Craftsmanship
Step inside and you’re immediately transported to an era when homes were built with intention, artistry, and enduring quality. The grand foyer sets the tone, showcasing some of the most stunning original woodwork you’ll ever encounter.
Rich wood tones, intricate detailing, and beautifully preserved finishes reflect a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in modern construction.
Throughout the home, original built-in cabinetry, detailed trim work, and solid wood features tell the story of a residence designed to impress and endure. These historic elements create warmth, character, and a sense of permanence that cannot be replicated. For lovers of classic architecture, this home is nothing short of a dream.
Yet despite its historic roots, the mansion has been thoughtfully updated to meet modern expectations—offering the perfect balance between old-world charm and contemporary convenience.
Spacious Living with Endless Possibilities
With nine bedrooms and six bathrooms, the scale of this home opens the door to countless possibilities. Large families will appreciate the abundance of private spaces, while those seeking flexible use will find the layout ideal for home offices, guest suites, creative studios, or hobby rooms.
The bathrooms include four full baths and two half baths, ensuring convenience and comfort throughout the home. Whether hosting guests, accommodating tenants, or simply enjoying the luxury of space, this layout supports a wide range of lifestyles.
The home’s generous square footage allows for elegant entertaining as well as quiet, private living. High ceilings, spacious rooms, and natural light enhance the feeling of openness, while the historic design maintains a sense of intimacy and warmth.
A Smart Investment: Live in the Mansion, Let the Apartments Pay the Mortgage
What truly sets this property apart is its income-producing potential. In addition to the main mansion, the home includes two renovated apartments, making it an exceptional opportunity for buyers seeking both a residence and a financial asset.
Imagine living in this historic mansion while rental income from the apartments helps cover your mortgage, taxes, or maintenance costs. Alternatively, investors may choose to rent out all units for strong cash-flow potential in a property that stands out from typical multi-unit buildings.
This dual-purpose design makes the home especially appealing in today’s market, where flexibility and affordability are more important than ever. Whether you’re an owner-occupant or an investor, this property works for you.
Modern Upgrades for Peace of Mind
While the home proudly displays its historic character, it has also seen a number of important modern updates, ensuring comfort, efficiency, and safety for today’s owners.
Recent improvements include:
New ceiling fans for improved air circulation and comfort
Updated electrical sockets and a new electric panel, providing peace of mind and modern capacity
Some new plumbing, addressing key functional upgrades
A new hot water tank, ensuring reliable hot water throughout the home
Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, offering durability, style, and easy maintenance
Additionally, much of the front porch decking has been replaced, enhancing both curb appeal and structural integrity. The porch itself is a standout feature—an inviting space to relax, entertain, or simply enjoy the charm of the neighborhood.
The home also boasts a newer roof, a major upgrade that adds significant value and reduces future expenses. Combined with reasonable property taxes, these updates make ownership more affordable and predictable than many buyers might expect for a home of this size and character.
Outdoor Appeal and Practical Parking
Beyond its interior charm, the property offers practical outdoor features that enhance everyday living. The concrete parking area and off-street parking provide ample space for residents and guests alike, with uncovered parking available. This is especially valuable for a multi-unit property, ensuring convenience without sacrificing aesthetics.
The large porch serves as a visual centerpiece, inviting you to slow down and enjoy the surroundings. Whether sipping coffee in the morning or unwinding in the evening, this space embodies the gracious lifestyle that historic homes are known for.
A Home with History and Heart
Homes like this are rare—not just because of their size or features, but because of the stories they carry. This Windber mansion has stood the test of time, witnessing generations of life, change, and community. Owning it means becoming a steward of local history while shaping its next chapter.
For preservation-minded buyers, the home offers an opportunity to honor its original character while continuing thoughtful updates. For practical buyers, it delivers space, income potential, and modern improvements at an exceptional value.
Location: The Charm of Windber, Pennsylvania
Located at 1401 Somerset Avenue, the home sits within the welcoming community of Windber. Known for its small-town charm, rich history, and scenic surroundings, Windber offers a peaceful lifestyle with access to essential amenities.
The area provides a balance of quiet residential living and convenient proximity to shopping, dining, schools, and healthcare. For those who appreciate historic communities and a slower pace of life, Windber is a wonderful place to call home.
Motivated Seller – A Rare Opportunity at an Exceptional Price
At $175,000, this property represents an incredible value—especially considering its size, condition, income potential, and historic appeal. The motivated seller makes this an even more compelling opportunity for buyers ready to act.
Whether you envision restoring a grand mansion, creating a multi-generational home, or leveraging rental income to build wealth, this property offers the flexibility to match your goals.
Final Thoughts
The historic Windber mansion at 1401 Somerset Ave is more than just a house—it’s a lifestyle, an investment, and a piece of living history. With breathtaking original woodwork, modern upgrades, nine bedrooms, six bathrooms, and two renovated apartments, it offers unmatched versatility at an affordable price point.
FROM ZILLOW