Address: 818 Academy Ave, Waynesboro, GA 30830
3 Bedrooms | 1 Bathroom | 2,145 Sq Ft | 0.25 Acre Lot | Built in 1930
Step back in time with this rare Colonial-style gem located in the heart of Waynesboro’s historic district. Built in 1930, this three-bedroom, one-bath “handyman special” offers a wonderful opportunity to restore and personalize a classic Southern home full of vintage charm and architectural integrity.
A Timeless Exterior with Strong Curb Appeal
Situated on a quiet, tree-lined street, the home’s exterior immediately impresses with a stately clapboard façade, solid wood front door, arched transom, and a brick walkway leading to a welcoming front stoop. Full-length symmetrical windows provide a graceful, balanced look that defines Colonial Revival architecture.
Historic Details Throughout
Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of original period features that are becoming increasingly hard to find. The home boasts:
- A central hallway with high ceilings
- Gleaming original hardwood floors
- Four fireplaces with ornate, hand-carved mantels
- Beautifully crafted woodwork and trim
- Original door hardware and vintage details
Light floods in through large, original windows, casting a warm glow on the character-filled interior. Each room showcases the craftsmanship of early 20th-century design.
Spacious Layout Ready for Renovation
The 2,145-square-foot floor plan features a grand living room, a spacious formal dining room, and an unimproved kitchen awaiting your creative vision. A vintage farm sink and antique clawfoot tub add extra charm, while the screened porch and brick side patio provide relaxing outdoor spaces.
There’s also potential to:
- Add a second bathroom
- Expand or reconfigure the kitchen
- Create a primary suite or office in one of the larger bedrooms
Whether you’re a preservationist, a DIY renovator, or an investor, this property offers a canvas to create a home that honors the past while embracing modern comforts.
Outdoor Living and Privacy
A spacious fenced backyard provides both privacy and room to garden, entertain, or relax under the Georgia sun. The screened-in sleeping porch makes for a peaceful retreat overlooking the yard — perfect for warm summer evenings.
About Waynesboro, GA: A Southern Town with History and Heart
Located about 37 minutes south of Augusta, Waynesboro blends historic charm with small-town simplicity. Known as the “Bird Dog Capital of the World,” this Burke County seat is beloved for its tight-knit community, walkable downtown, and deep Southern roots.
✔️ PROS of Living in Waynesboro
1. Affordable Cost of Living and Housing
Waynesboro offers one of the most affordable lifestyles in Georgia:
- Cost of living is ~22% lower than the U.S. average and 18% below the Georgia state average.
- Median home value is just around $112,700 — significantly more affordable than many parts of the state.
- Rental prices range from $700–$810/month, making it a budget-friendly option for renters and buyers alike.
- Real estate appreciation has been strong, with home values increasing roughly 121% over the past decade (~8.3% annually), indicating long-term investment potential.
2. Small-Town Charm with a Historic Core
- Waynesboro’s downtown (especially Liberty Street) is part of a designated Commercial Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.
- You’ll find boutique shops, cozy cafes, a library, and a town park — all within walking distance.
- Frequent local events and community gatherings add to the town’s welcoming and walkable charm.
3. Friendly and Safe Feeling Community (in Certain Areas)
- The suburban-rural mix and deep community roots create a socially connected environment.
- Many residents note that the downtown riverside and other central areas feel safe and are enjoyable to walk.
- Reddit threads and community forums often highlight the “everyone knows everyone” atmosphere and scenic surroundings.
4. Convenient Commute to Augusta
- The average commute is about 20 minutes one way, with most households owning two cars.
- Waynesboro is just a short drive from Augusta, giving residents access to a broader range of employment, healthcare, shopping, and entertainment options while enjoying the slower pace of a smaller town.
⚠️ CONS of Living in Waynesboro
1. Crime Rates Higher Than Average
- Unfortunately, some areas of Waynesboro report crime rates well above national averages.
- 1 in 27 chance of being a crime victim.
- Violent crime risk is about 1 in 122; property crime around 1 in 35.
- Specific zones, such as the North Side and areas near Market Ave Kroger, are frequently cited by locals as areas requiring caution.
2. Underperforming Public Schools
- School performance remains a concern:
- Graduation rate is around 77%
- Standardized test scores hover near 26%
- AreaVibes rates local public schools an “F”
- According to Niche, the school district receives a C+ overall, with particular room for improvement in secondary education.
3. Limited Amenities and Nightlife
- Waynesboro has a relatively limited selection of restaurants, grocery stores, and retail options.
- New businesses may struggle to stay open long-term, and many entertainment or dining activities require a drive to Augusta or other larger towns.
- For singles and younger residents, nightlife is sparse, and social opportunities can be limited.
4. Modest Income and Economic Opportunities
- Median household income is approximately $40K–$45K, well below state and national averages.
- Poverty rate is high, at about 32%.
- Many jobs available locally offer low pay — some reportedly around $8.50/hr — making it challenging for some residents to find sustainable employment.
Final Thoughts: Historic Potential in a Growing Town
818 Academy Ave is more than a home — it’s a piece of Waynesboro’s history, waiting to be lovingly brought back to life. With its architectural integrity, original features, and prime location in the historic district, it offers the perfect restoration project for those who appreciate craftsmanship and see value in heritage.
If you’re ready to invest in a home that tells a story and embrace the lifestyle of a friendly, historic Southern town, this property is a must-see.
📍Interested?
Please contact the listing agent via the link provided in the original post or reach out to a trusted real estate professional of your choice. Independent verification of property details, availability, and condition is highly recommended before purchase.
