Some historic properties are difficult to categorize because their stories extend beyond the traditional idea of a family home.
This remarkable Greek Revival building in downtown Auburn, New York, dates to 1836 and combines the scale of a substantial historic residence with architectural features that have survived into the present day.
195 Genesee St, Auburn, NY 13021 | Offered at $189,900
5 Bedrooms | 2 Full Bathrooms + 1 Half Bath | 7,488 Sq Ft | Built in 1836 | 0.53-Acre Lot
Listed at $189,900, the two-story brick property offers nearly 7,500 square feet, grand front columns, decorative ceilings, marble fireplaces, and a sweeping staircase. For buyers interested in historic preservation, adaptive reuse, or an ambitious restoration, it presents a rare opportunity to work with a building nearly two centuries old.
The exterior establishes a formal architectural presence. Grand columns frame the front of the building, reflecting the Greek Revival tradition that drew inspiration from classical Greek temples and emphasized symmetry, proportion, and dignified entrances.
The brick construction adds to its substantial appearance, while the property’s position along Genesee Street places it within Auburn’s downtown business district. Although the building has previously served as a professional medical office, its historic character remains central to its appeal.
Inside, the generous floor area offers considerable scope for reimagining the space. Hardwood floors and decorative ceilings contribute to the building’s period atmosphere, while the beautiful staircase provides a focal point that connects the two principal levels.
Such staircases were often among the most carefully designed elements of a historic interior, serving both a practical purpose and an architectural one. The marble fireplaces are another standout feature, adding elegance and a sense of permanence to the rooms they occupy.
The building is currently configured with five bedrooms and three bathrooms—two full bathrooms and one half bath—according to the residential listing. These details describe its current listing classification, but buyers should not assume that the existing arrangement automatically translates into a conventional residential floor plan.
Its previous use as a medical office makes a careful assessment of room layouts, accessibility, utilities, and building-code requirements especially important.
A full basement provides additional space, while the property also includes an attached one-car garage and off-street parking at the rear.
The approximately half-acre lot is generous for a downtown location and adds flexibility to the property’s future use. Natural-gas and steam heating, central air conditioning, and connected public water and sewer are listed among its systems and services.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this property is its zoning context. The listing identifies potential permitted uses that may include single-family or multifamily housing, professional offices, medical or wellness services, retail, bed-and-breakfast accommodation, and mixed-use development.
Any proposed conversion, however, would require confirmation with the City of Auburn and may be subject to zoning, building, fire-safety, accessibility, and other municipal requirements.
At this price, the building is best viewed as a project with substantial potential rather than a move-in-ready historic residence. Prospective buyers should inspect the roof, foundation, masonry, fireplaces and chimneys, electrical and plumbing systems, heating equipment, and interior finishes.
They should also clarify the building’s current condition and any preservation or code obligations before committing to a renovation plan.
For an old-house enthusiast, 195 Genesee Street offers something increasingly difficult to find: a large, early-19th-century Greek Revival property with classical proportions and distinctive surviving details.
Whether restored as a residence or adapted for an appropriate business use, its next chapter will depend on matching the building’s historic character with a practical, well-researched plan.
Key Details
- 💰 Asking price: $189,900
- 🛏️ Bedrooms: 5
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 2 full and 1 half
- 📐 Interior space: 7,488 sq ft
- 🗓️ Year built: 1836
- 🏛️ Architectural style: Greek Revival
- 🧱 Construction: Brick
- 🔥 Fireplaces: 5, according to the listing
- 🪜 Historic features: Grand front columns, decorative ceilings, hardwood floors, marble fireplaces, beautiful staircase
- 🌳 Lot size: Approximately 0.53 acre
- 🚗 Parking: Attached one-car garage and off-street parking
- 🏢 Previous use: Professional medical office
- 🔑 Potential: Residential, commercial, or mixed-use possibilities, subject to municipal approval
Listed by: Alliance RE Specialists 315-532-0793, Michael Hardesty 315-532-0793
Originating MLS: Syracuse