For those drawn to unconventional buildings with notable volumes, large footprints, and distinct local histories, repurposing a non-residential structure offers an entirely different kind of preservation project.
Located directly on the edge of the Ouachita National Forest in Hartford, Arkansas, a former church building has been adapted into a multi-unit layout and recently listed on the market for $39,999.
Setting and Exterior
Positioned on a 0.69-acre lot, the property sits right at the border of the Ouachita National Forest, which spans nearly 1.8 million acres across the region. The setting features a cleared, city-lot footprint with a gravel driveway and partial fencing.
From the exterior, the building reflects its institutional past, featuring a multi-story structure with a brick exterior, a block-and-slab foundation, and a fiberglass-and-shingle roof. The surrounding terrain offers elevated views looking out toward the mountains.
Interior Layout and Details
Spanning a total interior livable area of 3,214 square feet across three or more stories, the building’s interior has been converted from its original sanctuary layout into a five-unit apartment configuration.
The listing notes a layout comprising five bedrooms and five full bathrooms. Interior finishes visible in the listing include a mix of carpet and laminate flooring paired with vinyl windows. The property includes an electric water heater, though heating systems are currently listed as none, and there are no basements, garages, or fireplaces.
Condition and Practical Considerations
Sold strictly as a fixer-upper, the property is categorized as a substantial renovation and custom DIY project. Because the building functions as a multi-unit complex that has undergone past alterations, prospective buyers should anticipate extensive interior and systems work.
The listing details indicate that the structure features no current heating system, and buyers will need to evaluate the condition of plumbing, electrical, and structural components firsthand.
No specific sale restrictions or cash-only terms are explicitly highlighted in the official brokerage remarks, but the property’s fixer status and scope of work require a hands-on approach from a qualified contractor.
Who Might Consider This Property
This property could appeal to buyers seeking a large-scale structural project, individuals interested in reviving a multi-family income-producing property, or those looking for a spacious shell near a national forest. Its combination of an expansive interior footprint, unique architectural origins, and a scenic natural setting provides a distinct framework for a dedicated restoration effort.
Property Details
💰 Asking price: $39,999
📍 Location: 28 S Hazel St, Hartford, AR 72938
🛏️ Bedrooms: 5 🛁 Bathrooms: 5 full bathrooms
📐 Interior size: 3,214 sq ft 🌳 Lot size: 0.69 acres
Source note: Price, listing status, and property details were verified via Zillow and the Western River Valley Board of Realtors MLS on October 7, 2026.