Classic Brick Beauty in Burlington: 317 S Central Ave
Listed at $81,900, 317 S Central Ave in Burlington, IA 52601 presents a rare opportunity to own a stately brick home overflowing with character, space, and architectural charm. Situated proudly on a corner lot, this expansive property blends historic elegance with incredible potential.
With four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a two-car garage, this is the kind of home that invites vision, creativity, and transformation.
From the moment you approach the property, the timeless appeal of the brick exterior sets the tone. Solid, enduring, and rich in character, brick homes have long been admired for their durability and classic aesthetic. Positioned on a corner lot, the house benefits from added curb presence, extra yard space, and greater natural light from multiple exposures.
A Grand First Impression
Step through the front door and you’re immediately welcomed by an expansive foyer that makes a bold architectural statement. Spacious entryways are increasingly rare in modern construction, which makes this home’s layout particularly special.
The foyer features beautiful woodwork and elegant French doors, creating a sense of sophistication and warmth. A thoughtfully designed coat closet with a built-in bench adds both function and charm—perfect for Iowa’s changing seasons.
The wood detailing throughout the home reflects craftsmanship from an era when homes were built with artistry and attention to detail. From trim and moldings to doors and built-ins, the rich textures provide a strong foundation for restoration or enhancement.
A Kitchen Designed for Possibility
One of the standout features of this home is the HUGE kitchen. Generous in size, this space offers endless potential for redesign or modernization. Whether you envision a chef-inspired culinary workspace, an open-concept gathering area, or a charming vintage-style kitchen that honors the home’s heritage, the square footage is there to bring your ideas to life.
Adding to the appeal is a walk-in pantry—an increasingly sought-after feature. With ample storage space, this pantry allows for organization and functionality that modern homeowners crave. It also opens up possibilities for creative customization, from custom shelving to built-in cabinetry.
Three Fireplaces—A Rare Find
Few homes at this price point offer not one, not two, but three fireplaces. The formal dining room features a fireplace that adds elegance and ambiance—perfect for hosting holiday dinners or intimate gatherings. Imagine a beautifully set dining table illuminated by soft firelight during winter evenings.
The living room also boasts its own fireplace, creating a cozy yet spacious setting for relaxing with family or entertaining guests. Additionally, the den includes a third fireplace, making it an ideal retreat for a home office, reading room, or media space.
Fireplaces serve as natural focal points in a room, and having three throughout the main level enhances both aesthetic value and resale potential.
Four Spacious Bedrooms
On the second floor, you’ll find four large bedrooms, each offering ample space and natural light. Unlike many older homes where bedrooms can feel compact, these rooms are generously sized, providing flexibility for family living, guest accommodations, or creative use such as hobby rooms or studios.
One of the bedrooms includes its own fireplace and beautiful stained glass accents, adding a distinctive touch of artistry and historic charm. Stained glass details throughout the home create a warm, colorful glow as sunlight filters through, offering a sense of character that modern builds simply cannot replicate.
A Landing with Endless Options
Another remarkable feature of the second floor is the large landing area. Spacious enough to function as a home office, reading nook, or study space, this flexible area enhances the home’s versatility. The stained glass windows on the landing elevate the space, transforming what might otherwise be a simple hallway into a visually stunning architectural highlight.
With remote work increasingly common, having a designated office space separate from bedrooms is a major advantage. This landing provides just that—privacy, natural light, and character.
Bathrooms and Layout
The home includes two bathrooms—one full bath and one half bath. While the property is being sold as-is, the existing layout provides a solid framework for renovation. Whether you choose to restore vintage elements or create updated spa-like retreats, the space allows for meaningful upgrades that can significantly increase value.
Garage and Parking
Practicality meets convenience with a two-car garage, offering secure parking and additional storage. In a historic home setting, a garage of this size is a valuable feature. The corner lot positioning may also allow for improved access and maneuverability.
Investment Potential
At $81,900, this home represents an exceptional opportunity for buyers looking to invest sweat equity into a property with strong bones and undeniable character. The “sold as-is” status makes it clear that updates and repairs may be needed, but it also means buyers can personalize renovations to their exact tastes and standards.
Properties with original woodwork, multiple fireplaces, stained glass windows, and expansive layouts are increasingly rare—especially at this price point. With thoughtful updates, this house could become a true showstopper.
Ideal for Visionaries
This home is perfect for:
Investors seeking renovation potential
DIY enthusiasts ready for a rewarding project
Historic home lovers who appreciate craftsmanship
Buyers looking for space at an affordable price
The structural presence, classic materials, and generous layout provide a strong foundation for transformation.
The Burlington Advantage
Located in Burlington, Iowa, this home benefits from small-town charm combined with essential amenities. Burlington offers community warmth, scenic surroundings near the Mississippi River, and a cost of living that remains attractive compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Owning a property like this in Burlington allows buyers to enjoy both affordability and architectural character.
A Canvas for Creativity
Ultimately, 317 S Central Ave is more than just a house—it’s an opportunity. The expansive foyer, French doors, massive kitchen, formal dining room, living room, den, four bedrooms, large landing, stained glass accents, and three fireplaces combine to create a property filled with possibility.
With vision and care, this spacious brick home can be transformed into a stunning residence that honors its past while embracing modern comfort. Whether you restore it to its former glory or reimagine it entirely, the potential is undeniable.
FROM ZILLOW