As the Alabama housing market stands poised and ready to rebound in 2024, Alabama REALTORS® are optimistic that they will soon be able to offer an increased inventory. Homebuyers in the south are looking for more than just four walls and a roof — they desire comfort and charm, a sense of community and belonging, and perhaps a twinge of nostalgia from simpler times.

A 145-year-old rural farm on the outskirts of Boaz offers just that. 

Listed by Laura Walden, 853 Ellis Road is a working farm consisting of a five bedroom main house, a three bedroom farmhouse, and a charming two bedroom A-frame guest or rental house. 

(Justin Carter/High Tide Aerials)

It’s clear that owners Randall and Peggie Haney poured their hearts into creating an idyllic, traditional farmhouse that is ready for the next owner to immerse themselves in the rural life. Since the house stands within the Boaz city limits, owners have the opportunity to enjoy life on a farm while having access to the city’s utilities and public safety.

The property’s main home was rebuilt in 2020 and showcases a beautiful open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, custom-built cabinetry and a stone fireplace. The large living room windows overlook two lakes, both of which were installed by the owner and stocked with catfish and bass. Walden also notes that the main home is ADA compliant, making the residence a sustainable option for individuals with disabilities. 

The home has previously been used as a place to gather with friends and family, and it’s not hard to see why. All three homes on the 53-acre property are constructed with large decks that overlook the lakes, which are perfect for dinner parties or social gatherings. The property is shaded by pecan trees, and summer produce abounds with a fruit orchard containing blueberry and blackberry bushes.

(Justin Carter/High Tide Aerials)

For those who are interested in the farm life, the property makes it incredibly easy to just straight in, as it’s fully ready to act as a working dairy and cattle farm. Beyond the pasture, the property contains a five-horse stable, a large metal chicken coop, greenhouse, hay barn, and a dairy barn with a canning station and full bath. The Haneys have enjoyed watching school-age children observe the magic of working the farm and they believe the property offers a great educational opportunity to the community.

REALTOR® Laura Walden notes that while the housing market has been less than ideal, there are still a number of unique and noteworthy homes currently on the market, much like 853 Ellis Road.

“Real estate has had many ups and downs lately,” Walden says. “As REALTORS®, we’ve had to get creative, but we are choosing to be optimistic and we’re beginning to see things pick back up.” 

Source: The North Alabama Home Listing Drawing Local Attention SoulGrown (March 26, 2024) Alabama Association of REALTORS®