Ghosts Need Not Apply: This Junius Heights Former Boarding House Offers Protection

Junius Heights has been a coveted neighborhood since its inception in 1906. Developer C.H. Munger sold 200 lots in about 45 minutes. Advertised as the “choicest residential section of Dallas,” not much has changed except the housing prices.

Notably, Junius Heights features the largest collection of Craftsman homes in the southwest, but it’s also got a number of Prairies and Tudors, too. This impeccable 1913 Prairie is a wonderful example of adapting a historic home to the needs of buyers today.

Thanks to Junius Heights’ 2005 designation as a historic neighborhood in Dallas, these homes continue to serve a new generation. When you can find one that has been beautifully updated and is move-in ready, you’ve truly scored.

At 2,384 square feet, this Junius Heights Prairie is enormous, with bedrooms so sizable that the home was used as a boarding house in the 1920s and 1930s. The advertisements from back then are pretty amusing. Some called for “Gentlemen only.” Others targeted couples or were reserved for just women. “Excellent meals to desirable people” were optional.

Rent was $5-7 a week, and they would even move you in for free. This is definitely a concept that should be revived!

One of the biggest attractions of these historic Junius Heights homes is the front porch. This one wraps the house and has the all-important blue porch roof ceiling. If you are unfamiliar, the ceilings of porch roofs were traditionally painted a shade of blue known as “haint” blue.

This color was believed to mimic water, which would ward off ghosts who apparently can’t cross any body of water. Haint blue offers double protection though, as otherworldly visitors would mistake it for the sky and float up, up, and away from the property. At any rate, you are sure to have a ghost-free zone come Halloween!

The previous owners have meticulously crafted an open floor plan, allowing natural light to flood this Junius Heights Prairie all day long. Every conceivable update has been made, from the new HVAC and additional ductwork to the updated electrical and plumbing systems. This is not just a historic home but a modern sanctuary, ready for you to move in and start creating your own history.

The present owners have also added a large rooftop deck, perfect for enjoying everything from the stars at night to holiday fireworks.

Historic character, modern conveniences, and a tight-knit Junius Heights community make this Prairie absolute perfection! The neighborhood hosts regular events and gatherings, fostering a strong sense of community. You won’t want to miss Third Thursday every month. Neighbors gather at Garden Cafe at 6 p.m. to hang out with friends and, of course, meet the new neighbors.

Compass realtor Nyda Faith has 5424 Reiger Ave. available for $739,900.