The allure of a dilapidated mansion in Aberdeen, North Carolina, was too strong for Abby and Trey Brothers to resist.
When they first set eyes on the 109-year-old property, it was in a state of disrepair, with broken windows and no locks.
Yet, beneath the decay, the couple saw potential.
They envisioned a home filled with history and charm, and they were determined to bring it back to life.
Abby told CNBC Make It:
“It was important to keep the original details of the home because it’s history. Homes aren’t built like they were in 1913. The details aren’t the same there. And if you want those sorts of details in a home now, they’re very expensive.”
The mansion, spanning 6,000 square feet, was purchased for a mere $155,000.
The renovation, however, was a significant undertaking, costing them an additional $268,000.
Abby recalls the instant connection she felt when she stumbled upon the listing online, likening it to the certainty she felt when she decided to marry Trey.
For Trey, the house felt like home the moment he stepped inside, despite its evident need for extensive repairs.
A home with a history.
The mansion’s rich history is intertwined with the Page family, prominent industrialists who played a pivotal role in North Carolina’s development.
Walking into the house was like stepping back in time.
Old magazines, remnants of past celebrations, and the peculiar placement of the kitchen in the basement painted a vivid picture of the past.
The house was a time capsule, waiting to be unlocked.
The discovery of the mansion on Zillow was serendipitous.
Abby’s accidental zoom-out led her to the listing, and the couple quickly realized the potential for profit.
Before making the purchase, they consulted with various contractors to gauge the renovation costs.
Their investment proved wise when the house was later appraised at over $900,000.
Preserving the mansion’s original details was paramount.
The Brothers recognized the value of the home’s historical features, from the 110-year-old hardwood floors to the intricate woodwork.
These details, they believed, were irreplaceable and a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
The house was a treasure trove of antiques, many of which the couple chose to restore and reincorporate into their home.
From the living room’s dresser to the study’s furniture, each piece tells a story.
They even transformed a former phone closet into a quirky red bathroom, paying homage to its original purpose.
The dining room and kitchen underwent significant changes.
Initially, part of the dining room was collapsing into the basement.
Now, it stands strong, leading into a master bedroom with a unique fireplace.
The mason’s names, etched behind the mantel, serve as a reminder of those who built the house.
The sun porch was transformed into a spacious bathroom, complete with a clawfoot tub that once belonged to Abby’s great-grandmother.
The mansion boasts multiple bedrooms, each with its own charm.
The second floor houses four bedrooms connected by Jack and Jill bathrooms.
There’s also a “sleeping porch” that has been repurposed as a nursery for the couple’s child.
The Brothers have poured their heart and soul into every corner of the house, ensuring that each room resonates with history and love.
For Abby and Trey, this mansion is more than just a house; it’s a product of their dedication and vision.
They see themselves living there forever, hoping that future generations of their family will continue to cherish it.
Abby feels a sense of pride in having saved a piece of history.
The experience, she believes, was worth every challenge, and she hopes their story inspires others to embark on similar adventures.
Watch the video below to get a closer look at the Brothers’ journey and their beautiful home!
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.