This sprawling piece of partially developed land just outside of Houston is currently on the market for $3.6 million, drawing attention for its various labels such as “haunted,” “disaster,” and “mystery.” However, despite its ominous reputation, this colossal, unfinished Texas home presents an opportunity as a multimillion-dollar fixer-upper.
Over the years, this expansive, incomplete mansion has captured the curiosity of media outlets. Situated in the small Texas town of Manvel, the structure was originally commissioned as a custom home for a doctor and his wife in the early 2000s, as per Jim Youngblood, the current owner. “After completing about 70% of the project, his wife had a change of heart and felt the house was too massive for their needs.”
The rationale behind her decision is quite understandable. According to Youngblood, the initial vision for the house was ambitious: a sprawling 63,890-square-foot residence on 10 acres, designed to accommodate not only the doctor’s medical practice but also living quarters and space for foster children.
Following the halt in construction, the couple, who also possessed the neighboring property, opted to construct a “nearly identical” replica of the home, albeit scaled down to a more manageable 48,000 square feet, as per Youngblood. Subsequently, a preacher purchased the doctor’s abandoned structure with intentions to convert it into a housing development, but he encountered financial difficulties and fell behind on payments.
In 2008, investor Youngblood, along with family members, made the decision to acquire the property due to foreclosure, and he currently holds ownership. Jessica Castillo serves as the listing agent.
Despite numerous attempts to sell the property, Youngblood has faced challenges. “I’ve signed contracts for it several times. Somehow, these individuals have been unable to secure financing.” Youngblood envisions transforming the area into a rural office park featuring manicured ponds, fountains, and even longhorn cattle. If he is unable to sell the property in the coming months, he expresses the possibility of relocating his company there himself.
Youngblood isn’t the only one with big aspirations for the half-finished residence. Other potential buyers have envisioned utilizing the expansive 30,000-square-foot space in the rear as an event center with a bed and breakfast, or as an assisted-living facility with room for 70 units. Despite ongoing interest, no deals have been finalized.
“Everyone has these grand visions, but they lack the necessary funds,” Youngblood sighs.
The property is being sold in its current state, offering a solid foundation and a recently replaced roof. “You wouldn’t need to tear everything down to build something new. The existing walls can be repurposed,” he explains. Additionally, there’s a sizable attached garage, plans for 30 bedrooms that could easily be expanded, and an indoor pool and spa.