119 E Houston St

A landmark Dutch Colonial in the heart of Refugio, this stunning residence was rebuilt in 1970 on a foundation of original early 20th-century character — and every room shows it. Sitting on over an acre at the edge of historic downtown, this is the homestead property South Texas buyers have been searching for.

The main residence spans 3,431 square feet across two stories, with 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, and a half bath downstairs. Original tongue-and-groove hardwood floors have been professionally refinished and run throughout the home. Three original brick fireplaces anchor the dining room, one of two living rooms, and the primary bedroom — two are fully functional wood-burning hearths that will earn their keep on a cool South Texas evening. The kitchen has been fully remodeled with a porcelain farmhouse sink, a restored 1940 O'Keefe & Merritt range, a new Kenmore double oven, custom cabinetry, and a center island — all set on handsome tile floors. Fresh paint and wallpaper throughout make this home move-in ready from day one.

A new roof — just 6 years old — and 3-phase electrical service set this property apart from anything else in the county. The home runs on a private well, meaning no municipal water bill and true ownership of your water source.

A working small farm is already in place: chickens, quail, ducks, and rabbits call this property home, alongside a productive kitchen garden. A studio sits beside the detached 2-car garage, offering guest quarters or short-term rental potential. A workshop and storage building round out the improvements.

The property conveys with an adjacent one-acre parcel — currently zoned commercial along U.S. Highway 77 — opens the door to a business, an event venue, a farm stand, or expanded agricultural use with a rezoning permit. Whether your vision is a self-sufficient homestead, a small working farm, a bed and breakfast, or simply a landmark South Texas property with room to grow, 119 E. Houston delivers.