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Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Maine, a partially completed Quonset hut-style home is on the market, searching for a resourceful buyer with a vision to complete this unique dwelling. This property promises vast potential for those ready to infuse their creativity into it.
Though this home might not appeal to everyone, especially those without the necessary tools and a vivid imagination, its remarkably low asking price of $270,000 is likely to attract buyers who can envision its transformation from an empty shell into a remarkable living space.
The listing describes this striking Quonset hut-style residence as a “handyman special,” ideal for anyone looking to craft a personalized vacation retreat or develop a lucrative Airbnb opportunity.
Situated in the vibrant lake region of Shapleigh, this unfinished home rests on an expansive 11.79-acre lot. It offers the tranquility of nature with its proximity to Square Pond and Mousam Lake, alongside the convenience of nearby urban amenities.
Ezra Hodgson, the listing agent from The Zoeller Group at Keller Williams Coastal and Lakes & Mountains Realty, highlights the property’s allure: “The future owner will enjoy access to numerous ponds and lakes, as well as a wealth of hiking trails, all while being conveniently close to shopping and other necessities.”
While 75% of the construction is already complete, the remainder provides a “blank canvas” for the next buyer’s finishing touches, although they will first need to finish the installation of the electric, plumbing, and insulation before they can embark on creating their own aesthetic for the home.
“Septic and well are in, hooked up, and functional,” Hodgson notes. “Framing is almost completed. Custom white maple kitchen cabinets are already installed. A buyer will need to complete running electrical and plumbing, then insulation and drywall, and their finish work like fixtures, trim, decks, etc.”
The 1,792-square-foot “handyman special” boasts a distinctive exterior with arched metal design in keeping with the traditional quonset hut style, which was inspired by a military structure called the Nissen hut used by British forces during World War I.
After the war, the style was adopted by American troops stationed at the Quonset Point Naval Air Station in Rhode Island—from which the huts now take their name—who worked to advance the design, making it lighter, more flexible, and faster to build.
According to Innovation & Technology magazine, an estimated 170,000 quonset huts were built by the Americans during World War II, and when that conflict came to an end in 1945, the surplus structures were passed to civilians, who began using them as prefabricated vacation residences, storage units, and even guesthouses.
While they have since fallen out of style somewhat, the structures continue to be favored for their ease of construction—and their multifaceted design, which allows for all kinds of personalizations, much like the unfinished dwelling in Maine.
Inside, an open-concept floor plan features high ceilings, multiple sliding glass doors, and a loft area that could be transformed into a primary suite or additional living space.
The listing features several staged images that paint a stunning picture of what the home could look like, if someone is willing to invest in its completion.
Hodgson says its location and the “ability to finish it into exactly what a buyer wants” are some of the home’s most impressive features.
The 1,700-square-foot property is configured with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, although the construction process is not so far along that a future buyer couldn’t alter that layout.
“The interior framing is largely in place, showing a thoughtful layout that includes a kitchen area already equipped with quality solid wood cabinetry,” the listing notes.
“The bathroom is started with a vanity, toilet, and shower pan partially installed. A spacious loft area provides excellent potential for a primary suite or additional living space overlooking the main floor.”
Hodgson believes the next owner might be seeking “the perfect blueprint for their vacation home. They could be someone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle, and take advantage of the peace and quiet that the woods of Maine have to offer, or maybe it’s an investor who just found their perfect short-term rental opportunity.”
The spacious property also has a storage shed for tools and outdoor gear, and connects to a series of recreation trails at the end of the driveway.
The sale also includes shared rights to a private beach on Square Pond, however Hodgson notes that any additional plans should only be carried out with the necessary due diligence.
“We would encourage any buyer to do their due diligence with the town of Shapleigh when determining if the property could be subdivided and subsequently built on,” Hodgson added.