Charming Historic Home in Jacksonville’s Riverside Area: A Value-Add Opportunity!
Asking Price: $165,900
Step into a piece of Jacksonville’s past with this 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom single-family home located at 2748 Ernest St, Jacksonville, FL 32205. Built in 1928, this 820 sqft residence (though public records may show slightly more adjusted square footage) offers historical charm and significant potential for a buyer with vision. With an estimated refinance payment of $1,008/mo, this property represents an attractive entry point into the desirable 32205 zip code.
Key Features & Market Insights:
- Historic Character: Built in 1928, this home offers unique architectural details and the opportunity to restore its original charm while incorporating modern updates. It sits on a 5,360 sqft lot.
- Highly Desirable Zip Code (32205): The 32205 zip code, which includes the popular Riverside and Avondale neighborhoods, is a vibrant and growing area of Jacksonville. It’s known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, local businesses, and proximity to downtown. The population in 32205 is primarily white, with a large number of people in their late 20s to early 40s and many single adults.
- “Balanced” to “Buyer’s” Market: While the overall Jacksonville market is “somewhat competitive,” the 32205 zip code is currently described as a “Balanced Market” by Rocket Homes and a “Buyer’s Housing Market” by other sources.
- The median sold price for homes in 32205 was $290,666 in May 2025, up 3.8% year-over-year. For 3-bedroom homes in 32205, the median sold price increased by 0.9% year-over-year to $282,500. This property’s asking price of $165,900 is significantly below this median, indicating strong value.
- A notable 65.9% of homes in 32205 sold below asking price last month, suggesting ample room for negotiation for savvy buyers.
- Homes in 32205 average 48 days on the market (up 13.8% year-over-year), providing buyers with a reasonable timeframe for due diligence.
- Low Estimated Refinance Payment: The estimated $1,008/mo refinance payment makes this property highly accessible for those looking to buy rather than rent. (As always, buyers should factor in all potential costs for renovation, taxes, and insurance for a true monthly expense).
- No HOA Fees (Likely): Properties of this age and price point in this area of Jacksonville typically do not have HOA fees, contributing to lower ongoing ownership costs.
- Good Walkability and Bikeability: The property boasts a “Somewhat Walkable” Walk Score® of 67/100 and a “Bikeable” Bike Score® of 54/100, meaning many errands can be accomplished on foot or by bike.
- Property History: The property last sold for $46,000 in February 2021, showing substantial appreciation since then. Property taxes for 2024 were $1,941 on an assessed value of $90,282. Taxes have steadily increased in recent years.
Jacksonville Location (32205) & Amenities:
- Riverside/Avondale Access: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Riverside and Avondale, known for their historic architecture, eclectic shops, trendy restaurants, and cultural attractions.
- Downtown Proximity: Easy access to downtown Jacksonville’s business district, entertainment venues, and the St. Johns River.
- Parks and Green Spaces: The area is dotted with parks and green spaces, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation.
- Schools (Duval County Public Schools): The property is assigned to Duval County Public Schools. Nearby assigned schools include:
- Central Riverside Elementary School (PK-5, 7/10 GreatSchools Rating, 0.4 mi away) – This is a relatively well-regarded elementary school for the area.
- Lake Shore Middle School (6-8, 3/10 GreatSchools Rating, 3.4 mi away)
- Robert E. Lee High School (9-12, 3/10 GreatSchools Rating, 0.8 mi away)
- Note: While elementary school options are decent, middle and high school ratings are generally lower. Families prioritizing top-rated schools may need to explore school choice programs or private education.
Important Considerations:
- Condition & Renovation: Given its 1928 build date and competitive price, this home will almost certainly require significant renovation and updates to modernize its systems, finishes, and potentially expand the single bathroom. Buyers should budget accordingly for extensive repairs and improvements. This is an ideal project for a seasoned investor or a homeowner committed to a major renovation.
- Single Bathroom: With 3 bedrooms and only 1 bathroom, some buyers may find this limiting and could consider adding a second bathroom as part of their renovation plan.
- Crime Rate: Jacksonville’s overall crime rate is relatively high compared to state and national averages, particularly for property crimes (1 in 19 chance of being a victim of property crime). While the 32205 zip code itself is generally considered “somewhat safe” to “pretty safe” by residents, buyers are strongly encouraged to research localized crime data for the specific neighborhood and street from official police department sources to assess their comfort and safety levels.
- Flood Risk (Minimal to Moderate): This property’s “Flood Factor” is Minimal, and its flood risk is not changing. This is a positive indication, suggesting lower flood insurance costs and less concern compared to higher-risk areas. However, as with any Florida property, it is always recommended for buyers to verify the official FEMA Flood Map Service Center (MSC) for 2748 Ernest St, Jacksonville, FL 32205, to confirm the exact flood zone designation and understand any potential flood insurance requirements.
- Other Climate Risks: Jacksonville faces an “Extreme” Heat Factor (7 days above 107°F this year) and an “Extreme” Wind Factor (extreme risk of severe winds over the next 30 years). Buyers should ensure their homeowner’s insurance adequately covers potential wind damage.
This home at 2748 Ernest St offers a compelling opportunity for affordable homeownership in a desirable Jacksonville location. For the right buyer willing to invest in its renovation, this historic property could be transformed into a charming and valuable asset.
Priced at $165,900 – unlock the potential of this Jacksonville classic! Schedule your private showing today.
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