Julia and Eddie Flores’ acquisition of this historic Dutch Colonial home in Lincoln wasn’t just a fluke; it was a convergence of fate, dedication, and collective community effort. Behind the charming facade and hidden gems in the house lies an unfolding story of determination to preserve history and take advantage of unexpected opportunities.
Julia and Eddie’s connection to the house was not merely sentimental; it was rooted in a deep appreciation of heritage. Their decision to save the property from potential demolition wasn’t just about claiming the house; it was a mission to protect a piece of Lincoln’s legacy. Their transparent portrayal of the renovation journey on social media not only documented the challenges but also engaged the community, turning a personal project into a shared effort that breathed life into Lincoln’s historical narrative.
For many people, buying a house is a lifelong ambition because it represents success, hard work, and a cozy haven. Kansas natives Julia and Eddie Flores’ dream took an unexpected turn when they acquired a beautiful Dutch Colonial home in Lincoln, and the biggest part was that they got it for free.
The journey began when the pair traveled to Lincoln, Julia’s hometown, where her parents encouraged them to look at dilapidated properties in the area.
The 2,023-square-foot, three-bedroom Dutch Colonial had a weathered exterior, but inside were hidden gems including gorgeous hardwood floors and an interesting staircase. Julie and Eddie clicked immediately and saw a future full of precious moments for their three children.
They were happy in Kansas City, but the house in Lincoln always drew them back. They decided to apply to become new owners of the house after learning that if new owners were not found, it could be demolished within a year.
The castle was previously owned by W.J. Grubbs, one of the first mayors of Lincoln, and has a century-old heritage. After the couple’s offer was approved, the house became theirs; the only request was that it be moved to another area of ​​Lincoln to be preserved.
Julie and Eddie shared the joys and challenges of renovating their home while chronicling their remodeling adventures on social media. They encountered challenges including a new roof, removing the porch, and finding insulation that was infested with cockroaches, in addition to discovering pleasant surprises such as a child’s handprints from 1973.
They paid approximately $40,000 to engage Unruh House Moving to move the house.
After being loaded onto a truck, the house was gently moved two kilometers to a new location. The pair followed them nervously and the process took about two hours.
The Flores family is currently juggling Eddie’s demanding job as a traveling nurse, raising three children, and completing renovations. They intend to finish the renovations in time to move in by Thanksgiving, having already invested about $95,000 in their home. Along the way, they hired nearby companies to do specific work, helping to revitalize Lincoln and turn their house into a community project.
Julie and Eddie’s story is a testament to the value of community cooperation, conservation, and making the most of unforeseen opportunities.
Julie and Eddie’s journey to their Dutch colonial home embodies the essence of determination, protection, and community spirit. Their story is not just about acquiring a historic house; it’s a testament to their resilience and determination to preserve a piece of Lincoln’s legacy.
From the moment they laid eyes on the weathered lot, they saw beyond its worn exterior and envisioned a future filled with precious memories for their family. Their decision to save the house from demolition and relocate it was a bold move that required not only financial investment but also emotional commitment.
Their renovation escapades, shared openly on social media, reflected the challenges and pleasant surprises that come with restoring a century-old home. Handprints from decades ago and attempts to deal with cockroach-infested insulation were part of the journey that turned the house into a rare family project.
Their determination to complete the renovations amid the juggling act of work, parenthood, and community investment shows admirable dedication. Along the way, they not only revitalized the historic residence but also engaged local businesses, fostering a sense of community involvement and pride in preserving a piece of Lincoln’s history.
Julie and Eddie Flores serve as an inspiring example of how shared vision, perseverance, and community support can turn challenges into opportunities, preserving the past while building a brighter future. Their story will continue to be heard as a testament to the power of unity and dedication in the protection of historical heritage.