Fixer Upper Alert! C. 1940. On three acres in Wisconsin. $104,900
Tucked away at the quiet edge of the village of Exeland, Wisconsin, this circa-1940 home stands as a charming relic of mid-twentieth-century rural craftsmanship. Set on just over three acres of gently rolling land, the property offers a compelling blend of small-town convenience and countryside seclusion. Mature trees frame the landscape, providing shade, privacy, and a timeless sense of place that feels increasingly rare in the modern world.
From the moment one arrives, the home’s rustic character becomes apparent. Its exterior suggests durability and warmth, while a collection of outbuildings hints at the property’s past and its potential for future use. These secondary structures could once again serve agricultural, workshop, storage, or creative purposes, offering flexibility for a variety of lifestyles. Whether envisioned as a hobby farm, a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, or a restoration project for lovers of historic homes, the setting offers space and freedom to bring ideas to life.
Inside, the home retains a distinctive cabin-like atmosphere shaped by natural materials and handcrafted details. Original wood floors run through key living areas, carrying the patina of decades and offering a foundation for thoughtful restoration. Some interior walls feature log construction, reinforcing the home’s connection to rustic regional traditions and lending an authentic lodge-inspired aesthetic. Knotty pine paneling adds warmth and texture, its rich grain and amber tones evoking the comforting charm of classic Northwoods interiors.
One of the home’s most captivating features is its large stone fireplace, constructed from rugged fieldstone that anchors the main living space with visual weight and historical character. This fireplace once served as the heart of the household—a gathering place for warmth, storytelling, and everyday life. Its substantial scale and natural materials create a striking focal point that speaks to both craftsmanship and enduring function.
Exposed ceiling beams further enhance the home’s architectural appeal, giving rooms a sense of openness while reinforcing the rustic design language. These beams not only provide structural interest but also reflect a time when building techniques favored visible, honest construction over concealed elements. Together with the stone chimney and wood finishes, they create an interior environment that feels grounded, cozy, and full of potential.
The floor plan spans approximately 1,477 square feet and includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms arranged across two levels. This layout allows for flexibility in how the spaces are used, whether accommodating family living, guest rooms, or dedicated work and hobby areas. Bedrooms and bathrooms on both floors make the home adaptable for different needs, including multi-generational living or hosting visitors.
The dining and family rooms benefit from the continuity of hardwood flooring, which ties the spaces together and contributes to a cohesive interior flow. With thoughtful renovation, these rooms could be transformed into inviting gathering areas that balance historic charm with modern comfort. The structure of the home provides a strong foundation for updates, while its original features offer a rich palette for preservation-minded improvements.
Beyond the walls of the house, the surrounding property enhances its appeal. The three-acre parcel provides ample outdoor space for gardening, recreation, or simply enjoying the peace of a natural environment. Mature trees dot the grounds, offering shade in summer, vibrant foliage in autumn, and a tranquil atmosphere year-round. The landscaped setting supports a sense of retreat, making it easy to imagine morning coffee on the porch, evenings by a firepit, or quiet walks beneath the canopy of leaves.
Location adds another layer of practicality and lifestyle opportunity. Positioned just off US Highway 48, the property benefits from convenient access while maintaining a peaceful, tucked-away feel. Nearby public trails invite hiking, biking, and exploration, while sparkling lakes in the surrounding region provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and seasonal recreation. For outdoor enthusiasts, this home could serve as an ideal base for year-round adventures—from snowmobiling in winter to kayaking and camping in warmer months.
The broader setting of Exeland contributes to the home’s charm. As a small village with a strong sense of community and proximity to nature, it offers a slower pace of life while remaining connected to essential amenities. The balance between village living and countryside solitude makes this property particularly appealing for those seeking a quieter, more grounded lifestyle.
Above all, this 1940 home represents an opportunity to revive and reinterpret a piece of regional history. Its rustic materials, stonework, and log details speak to an era when homes were built with practicality, character, and longevity in mind. With care and imagination, the residence could be restored to highlight its original craftsmanship while incorporating modern updates that enhance comfort and usability.
Rather than simply a structure, this property is a canvas—one that invites restoration, creativity, and personal expression. Its blend of land, architectural character, and rural charm makes it a compelling prospect for anyone drawn to fixer-uppers with soul. In the quiet outskirts of Exeland, this humble yet distinctive home continues to wait patiently for its next chapter, ready to be shaped into a renewed haven rooted in history and nature.
