Achieving the dream of owning a house is a lifelong goal for many, symbolizing hard work, achievement, and a sanctuary for comfort. For Julie and Eddie Flores from Kansas, this dream took an unexpected turn when they became the owners of a remarkable Dutch colonial house in Lincoln, and the best part—it was given to them for free.
The couple’s journey began when they visited Julie’s hometown of Lincoln, where her parents urged them to explore a local, neglected house. Despite its worn exterior, the 2,023-square-foot, three-bedroom Dutch colonial house revealed hidden treasures inside, including stunning hardwood floors and a captivating staircase. Julie and Eddie felt an instant connection, envisioning a future filled with cherished memories for their three children.
Although content in Kansas City, the allure of the house in Lincoln kept drawing them back. When they learned that the house faced potential demolition within a year if a new owner wasn’t found, they decided to apply to become its owners.
The house, with a century-old legacy, once belonged to W.J. Grubbs, one of Lincoln’s original mayors. The couple’s bid was accepted, and the house was theirs with the only condition being its relocation to another part of Lincoln, ensuring its preservation.
Julie and Eddie documented their renovation journey on social media, sharing the challenges and joys of restoring the house. They found unexpected surprises, including children’s handprints from 1973, and faced challenges like a roof replacement, porch removal, and the discovery of cockroach-infested insulation.
To relocate the house, they hired Unruh House Moving, spending around $40,000 for the task. The house was lifted onto a truck and carefully transported two miles to its new location. The process took about two hours, with the couple following anxiously behind.
Now, the Flores family is balancing the remaining renovations, raising three children, and Eddie’s demanding job as a traveling nurse. They’ve invested approximately $95,000 in their home, aiming to complete the renovations in time to move in by Thanksgiving. Through their journey, they’ve engaged local businesses for specific tasks, contributing to the revitalization of Lincoln and making their home a community project.
Julie and Eddie’s story is a testament to the power of preservation, community collaboration, and turning unexpected opportunities into a dream come true.