Two Cozy, Adorable Dallas Homes — For Less than $100,000

2553 Kathleen Ave., Dallas

Last month, we went on a search to find the cheapest habitable home in Dallas — not only to prove they exist but also to highlight a market that doesn’t get the attention it needs.

And after that story was published, we heard from readers who asked for more. Today, we’re going to take a look at two houses, with one needing a little more spit and shine than the other, but both immediately habitable.

I’ve abided by the original guidelines – firstly, the homes must be move-in ready. They might not have brand new finishes, but the home should be clean, functional, and have all its windows and doors. Secondly, it can’t have a tenant in it — the premise is that a family could buy this house and live in it. Third, it had to be a single-family home — no condos, townhomes, etc.

Our first home is a two-bedroom, one-bath, 744 square foot home near Cedar Crest at 2746 Locust Ave. Listed by Kelly Mayberry of Century 21 Judge Fite Company, the home is compact, but has a large lot — meaning eventually you could add a whole master suite if you wanted.  This traditional home was built in 1950.

At $68,000, it’s got good bones, what appears to be new flooring and new interior paint. It could use some curb appeal, and maybe some additional tweaks, but Mayberry calls this one a “fixer-upper with minimum work needed.”

Our next house costs a little more, but is also completely move-in ready and renovated. Take a look at this adorable two-one in Fordham Heights, listed by Dorman Nelson of Millennium Realtors. At $89,900, the buyer of this home will get a renovated home and a brand-new HVAC system.

In fact, I would say that 2553 Kathleen Ave. exceeds our minimum expectations. Nelson said that the aside from new paint and new carpet, the kitchen has been updated with granite countertops. The bathroom has been updated as well.

“Take advantage of the large private backyard for parking,” he said, adding that there is also an additional outbuilding that can be used for a workshop or storage.

“The owner will install HVAC prior to closing,” Norman said of this adorable home.