I was alerted to this amazing real estate opportunity by the Preservation Ready Sites Web Page. It is a preservation web page listing a growing on-line catalogue of Buffalo’s architectural assets. The catalogue includes pictures, history, condition, and other pertinent information for hundreds of historic buildings, both grand and diminutive. It lists buildings in critical need of investment as well as those in good hands and those lost to history. It is an invaluable preservation resource that brings to light wonderful buildings like this one that often go unnoticed.
The beautiful Bird Avenue church has recently been listed for sale along with the adjacent wood frame house. Both buildings are in very good condition and include a little extra land if you insist on having a few parking spaces. Some info from the listing:
For sale – Realty USA Listing
Amazing opportunity to own historic building 1 block from Buffalo’s newest development. 11,600 sq ft. includes separate 3 bd 2 bath home and separate lot for parking on Hoyt. Very well maintained. New heating system & electric. 2 story church has original slate roof, organs, woodwork and tons of stained glass. We have drafted plans to convert to housing available upon request. Home alone sells for $150k. Cash only, no owner holds. Full kitchen. Mens and women’s multi stall baths with showers.”
Asking price $350,000 – $400,000.
Needless to say, this price is a steal! I mean come on wood work; slate roof; organs (plural)! Hopefully this beauty gets into the hands of the right owner. It can be a real anchor in the renewal of this neighborhood. Of course in the wrong hands it will become a noose that strangles the life from these streets. Small churches like this are easy conversions and can yield the kinds of apartments that attract the people Buffalo desperately needs back to the city.
I plan to devote a regular Buffalo Rising story to Preservation Ready Sites (PRS) listings. If you see any buildings on the list you believe should get some extra attention please feel free to contact BRO with your request. If you think there is an important building missing from the PRS site let them know. They want to hear from you. The group describes themselves thus:
ABOUT US
PRS is an independent/grassroots media watchdog group
PRS is comprised of citizens interested in architectural preservation and quality new design
PRS is NOT another preservation group – we look to collaborate with existing preservation organizationsOUR MISSION
Create a media platform that raises public awareness about Buffalo buildings at risk
Document issues affecting the status of the buildings
Create calls to action to enable the public to get involved
As I noted above, this site is a major resource that can be a critical tool in the effort to save Buffalo’s valuable architectural heritage. You can get in touch with the group at this link . You can also join a vigorous ongoing preservation conversation on their Facebook Page.