Priced at $30,000, the property at 122 North Avenue in Battle Creek, Michigan
A Historic Opportunity: Transforming 122 North Ave, Battle Creek, MI
Priced at $30,000, the property at 122 North Avenue in Battle Creek, Michigan represents a rare opportunity for homeowners, investors, and visionaries alike. Built in 1881, this historic structure carries the charm of a bygone era while offering flexible redevelopment potential under T3 zoning.
With five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a current configuration as four residential units, this property stands as a blank canvas ready for transformation.
Situated within the Calhoun County Land Bank’s Transform This Home (TTH) Program, this fixer-upper is not just a purchase—it’s a commitment to revitalization, community investment, and long-term value creation.
Property Overview
Address: 122 North Ave, Battle Creek, MI 49017
Price: $30,000
Year Built: 1881
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 4
Current Use: 4 residential units
Construction Status: Existing structure (not new construction)
The building is currently set up as a multi-unit residence, but that is only one of several possible futures. Depending on the buyer’s goals and rehabilitation plan, the property could be reimagined as:
A single-family home
A mixed-use property with a business on the main level and residential space above
A rehabilitated multi-unit rental property
This flexibility is one of the property’s most compelling features.
Zoning and Redevelopment Potential
The property falls under T3 zoning, which allows for a wide range of uses. This zoning classification supports residential density while also permitting certain commercial or mixed-use applications. For buyers interested in adaptive reuse, this opens the door to creative redevelopment strategies that can align with neighborhood needs and market demand.
However, zoning flexibility also comes with responsibility. If the property is rehabilitated as a multi-unit dwelling, an engineer’s report will be required. This report must address:
Foundation integrity
Floor systems
Roof condition
Fire separation criteria
These elements must be incorporated into the overall rehabilitation plan and approved as part of the city’s inspection process.
On the other hand, if the buyer chooses to rehabilitate the property as a single-family home, this engineer’s report is not required, potentially reducing upfront costs and simplifying the approval process.
The Transform This Home (TTH) Program
This property is offered through the Calhoun County Land Bank’s Transform This Home (TTH) Program, which is designed to encourage responsible rehabilitation of vacant or distressed properties.
The program is primarily intended for buyers who plan to:
Purchase and restore the home as their primary residence
Convert the property into a viable rental unit
Rehabilitate and resell the home to an owner-occupied buyer
While investors are welcome to apply, preference is given to applicants who intend to live in the home as their primary residence. This emphasis reflects the Land Bank’s mission to stabilize neighborhoods and promote long-term community investment.
Program Requirements and Buyer Expectations
Participation in the TTH Program requires buyers to demonstrate both planning and financial readiness. Specifically, applicants must:
Establish a detailed rehabilitation plan
The plan should outline the scope of work, intended use of the property, and how the home will be brought up to code and occupancy standards.
Demonstrate sufficient resources
Buyers must show that they have the financial capacity to complete the rehabilitation.
Complete rehabilitation within 12 months
The property must be fully rehabilitated to occupancy within one year of purchase.
Comply with city inspections
Additional inspections by the City of Battle Creek will be required throughout the rehabilitation process.
These requirements are designed to ensure that properties do not remain unfinished or underutilized, protecting both the surrounding neighborhood and the integrity of the program.
Offer Submission Process
The Land Bank follows a structured and transparent offer review process:
Offers are reviewed on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month
All offers must include:
Proof of funds (POF)
A preliminary questionnaire
According to the seller, any offer submitted without these documents will not be considered. This policy underscores the importance of preparation and seriousness when pursuing this opportunity.
Who This Property Is Best For
This property is ideal for several types of buyers:
Owner-Occupants with Vision
Buyers looking for a unique historic home and willing to invest time and effort into rehabilitation can create a one-of-a-kind primary residence, potentially with income-producing space.
Investors Seeking Value-Add Opportunities
At a $30,000 purchase price, the property offers a low entry point for investors experienced in renovation, especially those comfortable navigating municipal requirements and inspections.
Developers Interested in Mixed-Use Projects
With T3 zoning and a layout that supports multiple uses, the property could be repositioned to serve both residential and small-scale commercial needs.
A Chance to Revive History
Built in 1881, 122 North Avenue has stood for more than a century. While time has taken its toll, the bones of the building offer a tangible connection to Battle Creek’s past. For the right buyer, this is not just a renovation project—it’s an opportunity to preserve history while shaping the future.
With thoughtful planning, adequate resources, and a commitment to completion, this property can be transformed into a vibrant, functional space that contributes to the neighborhood and generates long-term value.
Final Thoughts
Properties like 122 North Ave do not appeal to everyone—and that’s exactly what makes them special. This is a project for someone who sees potential where others see work, who understands that transformation takes effort, and who values both affordability and impact.
At $30,000, with flexible zoning and support through the Transform This Home Program, this property stands as a compelling opportunity for buyers ready to roll up their sleeves and bring a historic structure back to life.
FROM ZILLOW
