Unique property for sale! Real Detention Center / Jail

Genc76
Level 1
Leander, TX

Unique property for sale! Real Detention Center / Jail

Go big or go home! So I purchased a former county detention center in downtown Cameron, TX in April 2022. The property was built in 1974, excellent quality built, and in very good overall condition. Its located in the heart of town, and across the street from historic jail that was built in 1885 and was utilized until 1974 when the property I bought was built. My goal was to offer it for people that would like to spend a weekend in a jail. Cameron TX is centrally located between Houston, Austin and Dallas. There are universities with Criminal justice programs all around, which is a great target demographic. 

 

The property is 11k sq ft, and has a backyard with a sallyport. I paid $973K for it. I bought it at a county auction. I spent all I had to buy it, and the the reconditioning has been going slowly. In mid 2023 I lost my business (sports bar) and have now been between jobs. I am considering selling it, as is. If anyone is interested please reach out. If I can recoup the purchase price I will forget about the money put in since buying it. 

I think as an Airbnb it should be great, but can be converted into office space, apartment complex, manufacturing or data center, zoning allows for additional floors to be added. From my estimates another $100K this place would be ready to list and make money. The property registered with Peerspace and Texas Film Commission and has had several day rentals. No other marketing has been done.  

 

Share your wisdom with me ya'll if you will! Thank you, Genc

5 Replies 5
Kathy1371
Level 3
Goose Creek, SC

Can you posit pics or a link?

Tatyana96
Level 2
Miami, FL

Wondering what was your idea of a space? Still make it like prison and Rent individual cell to each guest? 

I wanted to refurbish and make it a bit more cozy than a traditional jail would be, and then advertise to groups of people. Sort of, "if you ever want to know what it feels inside of a jail, spend a weekend with us, bring your buddies"

Rebecca
Community Manager
Community Manager
Suffolk Coastal District, United Kingdom

Hello @Genc76

 

Welcome to the community, and thank you for sharing your very unique project with us! How long do you think is left on the reconditioning/renovations? 

 

As you can see other hosts are keen to give you some advice, but would like a bit more information. It would be great to see what it looks like and hear more about what you had in mind, so everyone can advise you further! 😊 

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Genc76
Level 1
Leander, TX

I still cant figure out how to share the pics. I have hundreds. If someone has interest please send me your email and I will send them your way.