Cheap Old Houses Instagram becomes too popular, creates home-buying wars

Cheap Old Houses is one of my favorite Instagram accounts. The folks behind it scour real estate listings around the U.S. to find and showcase cool old homes being sold at ridiculously inexpensive prices, i.e. real estate pR0n. Sure, most of the houses are in places I'd never move to or they are "major fixers" but they're all under $100K. Well, it seems that the feed is becoming too popular, as evidenced by this PSA they released on Friday:

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I have a public service announcement to make! (haha and no, I’m not going to stop posting ?) I started this feed as a service to gather together a community of people who love and respect older homes that have been neglected and need TLC. I’m super proud of all the homes I’ve helped land in the hands of people who truly love them. That said, the feed has gotten more wildly popular than I could ever have imagined! Although (at least to my knowledge), no one has yet gotten into a bidding war because a house was posted on this feed, I do fear that it could happen. Please, PLEASE do me a favor: If you are planning to look at a house that is for sale for under $100,000 and have serious intentions to buy it, and if I haven’t already posted it, PLEASE send me a message and let me know and I will NOT post it! ??? Thank you!!!!

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Here are some examples of these cheap old homes:

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402 E Jefferson St, Mount Pulaski, IL — Lotsa work. But WOW!!! Thank for for sharing this gem, @susiemcglone ? “If these walls could talk! Historic three story corner lot nearly 3, 400 square foot Victorian home situated directly across from the Mt. Pulaski grade school. Property is packed with potential and could be an absolute showplace — here is your winter project! Main floor features a gorgeous foyer host to a stunning beautifully appointed open staircase as well an original front door with etched glass, living room, formal dining room, family room with corner fireplace, den, and kitchen area. Upstairs, you will find a large landing that provides access to a neat exterior front second story balcony, four large bedrooms — front bedroom boasts an awesome rounded sitting area neatly appointed by abundant windows, and a full hall bath with an older clawfoot tub. Property also features a large basement, unbelievably large and open floored walk-up third floor attic (oh the possibilities!), front and back staircases, transom windows, front and side covered porches, natural woodwork, several sets of beautiful pocket doors, and a large older two car detached garage structure with a second story that once served as an apartment. This iconic small town Mt. Pulaski, Illinois property has been gutted in various areas and is ready for a new owner to turn it in to the showplace residential dwelling that it once was — call your agent of choice — at $19, 900, there is endless room to work with at 402 E. Jefferson Street! Inspections welcome at buyer(s) expense, but property being sold strictly AS IS, WHERE IS.” — link in profile #cheapoldhousesil

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5550 Soza Rd, Whitewater, CA — This Fifties hideaway is only 480 sf, but this is California, so let’s consider that a win. “Funky, crazy cool Hobbit Hut on the Northside of Whitewater. Mid Century design with open beams, cozy fireplace and original block walls. Unique design which is actually oriented towards the view! Stunning capture of the San Jacinto mountain and sweeping views to the East, this small enclave of four houses is surrounded by BLM land with no HOA or Land Lease. This would be the perfect spot to be inspired to write that novel or paint that masterpiece you have been waiting to find. Creativity awaits you here where you can feel and enjoy the Earth's true pristine energy from the open raw desert. The cabin is a bit raw too. This would also make a perfect location for a short term rental or vacation home with some work.” — link in profile #cheapoldhousesca

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210 Bank St, Suffolk, VA — HEAD OVER HEELS! I love the way that staircase curves. Just gorgeous. “Attention investors and those who know a good deal when they see one! Check out this definite diamond in the rough featuring hard wood floors, large rooms, huge kitchen, screened in porch with old world charm! Large back yard area too. Right around the corner from new restaurant, banks, and all things Suprising Suffolk has to offer. Priced to sell-tax assessment is $146,900! Make this gem shine again and call for your showing today! Seller will not complete any repairs to the subject property, either lender or buyer requested. The property is sold in AS IS condition.” — link in profile #cheapoldhousesva

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(Super Punch)