3 Beds 3 Baths 2,861 Sqft

A custom-built 1949 mid-century home with a full basement in Vicksburg, Mississippi, listed at just $65,000.

Some listings make you look twice at the price.

In Vicksburg, Mississippi, a custom-built home finished in 1949 is listed for $65,000. It has three bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, a den, a kitchen with a breakfast area, and more than 2,800 square feet on the main floor alone.

Below that sits a full basement, once used as a recreation room, with its own half bath.

The listing even includes a photo of the house right after it was completed in 1949, next to how it looks today. That side-by-side tells a story of a house that has stood for more than 75 years.

Here is a closer look at what this home offers and what a buyer should check before making an offer.

Property Overview

• Price: $65,000
• Location: 3000 Short Cherry St, Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180
• Bedrooms: 3
• Bathrooms: 3 (2 full baths on the main floor, 1 half bath in the basement)
• Main floor: 2,861 square feet
• Basement: 832 square feet
• Era: Completed in 1949
• Style: Custom-built mid-century home
• Rooms: Living room, dining room, den, kitchen with breakfast area
• Basement use: Former recreation room
• Sale note: Agent-owned property

A Custom Home From 1949

The listing describes the home as a modern classic from the 1950s era, custom built and completed in 1949.

Custom homes from this period were often built with care. Owners chose their own layouts, materials, and details rather than buying from a standard plan.

Homes from the late 1940s also mark a turning point in American architecture. After World War II, builders moved toward cleaner lines, larger windows, and more open, family-friendly layouts. This house sits right at the start of that era.

Then and Now

One of the most unusual parts of this listing is the pair of photos.

One shows the home today. The other shows it just after it was finished in 1949.

Comparing the two lets buyers see what has changed and what has stayed the same. It can also guide restoration. Original features in the older photo, such as trim, windows, or landscaping, could inspire a new owner who wants to bring back the home’s first look.

The Main Floor Layout

The main floor holds all three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and the main living spaces.

That means a buyer could live entirely on one level. No stairs for daily routines, which suits families, retirees, and anyone planning to stay long-term.

At 2,861 square feet, the main floor is spacious. Many modern homes with three bedrooms are significantly smaller.

The Living Room

The living room serves as the home’s main gathering space.

In homes from this period, living rooms were often designed with large windows and room for family furniture. Look for original features like built-ins or a fireplace during a showing.

The Dining Room

A separate dining room offers a place for family meals and holiday dinners.

Formal dining rooms were standard in custom homes of this era. Today, they can stay as dining rooms or become offices, libraries, or playrooms.

The Den

The den adds a second living area.

Dens were a hallmark of mid-century homes. They were often the casual family room, the place for television, reading, or hobbies, while the living room stayed more formal.

Having both spaces gives families flexibility.

The Kitchen and Breakfast Area

The kitchen includes a breakfast area and plenty of cabinets.

A breakfast nook is a classic mid-century feature, perfect for casual meals and morning coffee.

Generous cabinet space is a big plus. In an older home, though, buyers should expect the kitchen may need updating. Check appliance condition, plumbing, and wiring.

The Bedrooms

All three bedrooms are on the main floor.

Given the home’s overall size, the bedrooms are likely comfortable. Check closet space, since homes of this era often had smaller closets than buyers expect today.

The Bathrooms

The main floor has two full bathrooms, and the basement adds a half bath.

Bathrooms from the late 1940s and 1950s sometimes still have original tile in classic colors. Some buyers love this vintage look and keep it.

Check for leaks, cracked tile, and aging plumbing.

The Full Basement

The home has a full basement of 832 square feet.

Basements are uncommon in much of Mississippi, which makes this one unusual. It was once used as a recreation room, a popular feature in homes of this era.

With its own half bath, the basement could become a game room, home gym, workshop, storage area, or hobby space.

Basements in the South deserve careful inspection. Look for moisture, water stains, cracks, and signs of past flooding.

Why the Price Is So Low

At $65,000, the price stands out immediately.

Low prices on large older homes usually reflect a combination of factors. These can include needed repairs, outdated systems, the local market, or a seller who wants a quick sale.

The listing does not describe the home’s condition in detail. Buyers should assume work may be needed and should verify everything through inspection before making plans.

Agent-Owned Property

The listing notes that the home is agent-owned.

This means the seller is a licensed real estate agent. Agents selling their own property are generally required to disclose that fact.

For buyers, this can mean a seller who understands the process well. It is still wise to have your own agent and your own inspection to protect your interests.

About Vicksburg, Mississippi

Vicksburg sits on bluffs above the Mississippi River in Warren County.

The city is famous for its role in the Civil War. Vicksburg National Military Park preserves the battlefield and draws visitors from around the country.

The city has a historic downtown, river views, casinos, and a long cultural history. Jackson, the state capital, is about 45 minutes east.

Vicksburg also has some of the most affordable housing in the country, which is part of why homes like this can be listed at such low prices.

Updates to Expect in a 1949 Home

A home of this age may need updates in several key areas:

• Roof condition and age
• Electrical wiring and panel capacity
• Plumbing supply and drain lines
• Heating and air conditioning
• Windows and insulation
• Foundation and basement walls
• Kitchen and bathroom fixtures

Ask what has been updated and when. Request any receipts or records.

Lead Paint and Older Materials

Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint.

A late 1940s home may also include asbestos in flooring, pipe insulation, or siding. Test before starting renovation work, especially if children will live in the home.

Living Here as an Owner-Occupant

For a buyer looking for space on a budget, this home could be a remarkable opportunity.

Few places in the country offer nearly 2,900 square feet, plus a basement, for this price.

With careful updates, it could become a comfortable, spacious family home with real mid-century character.

Investor Potential

Investors may also see value here.

A low purchase price leaves room in the budget for renovation. Once updated, the home could work as a long-term rental or resale property.

Run the numbers carefully. Check local rental rates and recent sales of renovated homes in the area.

Possible Projects and Improvements

• Update the kitchen while keeping the breakfast nook
• Refresh or restore vintage bathrooms
• Finish the basement as a modern rec room
• Update electrical and plumbing as needed
• Replace or repair the roof if needed
• Add insulation and efficient windows
• Restore mid-century details shown in the 1949 photo
• Improve landscaping and curb appeal

Financing Options

At $65,000, financing can be surprisingly tricky.

Some lenders have minimum loan amounts and may not offer mortgages this small. Credit unions and local banks are often more flexible for low-priced homes.

Conventional loans are possible if the home is in good enough condition. FHA and VA loans require homes to meet minimum property standards, which can be an issue for older homes needing repairs.

Renovation loans such as the FHA 203k or Fannie Mae HomeStyle can include repair costs in the mortgage.

USDA loans cover many areas outside city limits. Eligibility for this address should be confirmed with a lender.

Many buyers in this price range use cash, which can make offers more attractive to sellers.

Insurance

Insurance in Mississippi can be more expensive than in many other states because of storm and wind risk.

Insurers will also ask about the roof, wiring, plumbing, and heating in an older home.

Check whether the property sits in a flood zone, particularly given Vicksburg’s location near the river. Get quotes before closing.

Questions to Ask Before Buying

• What is the current condition of the roof?
• When were the electrical and plumbing systems last updated?
• Does the heating and air conditioning work?
• Has the basement ever flooded or had water issues?
• Is the property in a flood zone?
• What is the lot size?
• Are there any foundation issues?
• Has the home been vacant, and for how long?
• What are the annual property taxes?
• Are there any code violations or liens?
• Has the home been tested for lead paint or asbestos?
• What updates, if any, have been made over the years?

Inspection Is Essential

At this price, an inspection is more important than ever.

Start with a general home inspection. Add a foundation or structural inspection, especially because of the basement. Have the roof, electrical, and plumbing systems examined closely.

A sewer line camera inspection is wise for homes of this age. Older drain lines can crack or fail.

The inspection will show whether the low price is a true bargain or reflects significant needed work.

The Price in Context

At $65,000, this home works out to roughly $23 per square foot for the main floor alone.

That is an extremely low figure by national standards. Even with a substantial renovation budget, the total cost could remain far below what similar space would cost in most of the country.

Compare recent sales in Vicksburg to understand local values for both renovated and unrenovated homes.

Who This Home Is For

This home suits buyers who want space and character at a very low price and are prepared for possible updates.

It works for families, first-time buyers with renovation plans, mid-century design lovers, and investors.

It may not suit buyers who need a move-in ready home without any work.

Final Thoughts

This custom-built 1949 home in Vicksburg offers rare value.

Three bedrooms and two full baths on the main floor. A living room, dining room, den, and kitchen with a breakfast area. A full basement rec room with a half bath. And nearly 3,700 square feet in total, counting the basement.

The photo of the home in 1949 is a reminder that it was built to last. With a careful inspection and the right plan, it could shine again for its next chapter.

View the full listing on Zillow: 3000 Short Cherry St, Vicksburg, MS

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