Some historic properties offer a glimpse into the past, while others invite buyers to imagine an entirely new future. The Colonial Manor Inn in Onancock, Virginia, is one such property.
Dating to 1882, this substantial three-story historic building once operated as a bed-and-breakfast and now offers approximately 6,096 square feet, nine bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and 1.72 acres in the heart of Virginia’s Eastern Shore.
84 Market St, Onancock, VA 23417 | Offered at $300,000
9 Bedrooms | 8 Full Bathrooms | 6,096 Sq Ft | Built in 1882 | 1.72 Acres
Recently reduced to $300,000, it presents an intriguing opportunity for someone interested in restoring a historic property or exploring a potential hospitality or multi-use venture.
The building’s scale sets it apart from the typical historic residence. With three or more levels and a layout developed for accommodating guests, it has a configuration that could lend itself to several different uses. Its former life as the Colonial Manor Inn is an important part of its identity, and historical photographs and information from its operating years are reportedly available through the property’s former website. For buyers drawn to historic buildings, uncovering those earlier chapters could become part of the restoration process.
Inside, the property contains nine bedrooms and eight full bathrooms, with several suites offering space for sitting areas and kitchenette accommodations. This arrangement could be useful for a large household, multigenerational living, guest accommodations, or a future hospitality business, subject to applicable approvals. The listing also identifies a dining room and a family room, providing spaces that could serve as gathering areas if the building’s layout is retained or adapted.
The kitchen is particularly notable for its size and equipment. It includes two stoves, a commercial range hood, and two refrigerators—features consistent with the property’s former bed-and-breakfast use.
For a buyer considering a return to hospitality, this existing setup may offer a useful starting point, although its condition, compliance, and suitability for any proposed commercial operation would need to be assessed.
Heating is provided by an oil-fired radiator system, and the property has cooling equipment. Public water and sewer are also listed. These practical systems will be important considerations in evaluating the cost of maintaining and modernizing a building of this age and size.
Outside, the 1.72-acre parcel provides an unusual amount of land for a property near the center of a historic town. The grounds extend behind the main building, with additional access from Johnson Street. This space could accommodate gardens, outdoor seating, landscaping, or other uses appropriate to the property. An unfinished carriage house adds another layer of potential. Depending on its condition, zoning, and the necessary approvals, it might eventually serve as an innkeeper’s quarters, guest accommodation, or space for multigenerational living.
The property’s location is another advantage. Onancock is known for its historic downtown, local shops, galleries, restaurants, and waterfront. Onancock Wharf and Onancock Creek are less than a mile away, according to the listing, placing the property within reach of the town’s maritime setting and community amenities.
Nevertheless, a building with this much space and a history of commercial hospitality requires careful due diligence. Buyers should investigate the condition of the roof, foundation, exterior siding, heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical service, and any unfinished structures. They should also confirm the zoning, permitted uses, fire and accessibility requirements, and the cost of bringing the property into compliance with any proposed residential or commercial use.
At $300,000, the Colonial Manor Inn offers an unusual combination of historic character, substantial interior space, and nearly two acres of land. Its future could take several directions, but any successful plan will depend on matching the building’s possibilities with realistic renovation costs and local regulations. For a buyer prepared to undertake a significant project, this 1882 property offers the chance to give a former Eastern Shore inn a thoughtful new chapter.
Key Details
- 💰 Asking price: $300,000
- 🛏️ Bedrooms: 9
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 8 full
- 📐 Interior space: 6,096 sq ft
- 🗓️ Year built: 1882
- 🌳 Lot size: 1.72 acres
- 🏨 Historic identity: Colonial Manor Inn, formerly operated as a bed-and-breakfast
- 🍽️ Kitchen features: Two stoves, commercial range hood, two refrigerators
- 🏚️ Additional structure: Unfinished carriage house
- 🌿 Outdoor potential: Gardens, entertaining areas, and landscaped grounds
- 📍 Location: Historic Onancock, Virginia, near downtown and the waterfront
