History for Sale
As more people move to Polk County, some are fond of new builds and some are fond of old builds.
In Bartow, a city with a deep, rich history, there's long been a strong market for homes that are equal parts character and antiquated architecture.
Enjoy a glimpse of a quartet of homes with good bones that are currently on the market in Bartow—or at least they were when this issue went to print.
555 E Stanford Street
7 BEDS • 10 BATHS • 0.73 ACRE LOT • 7,307 SQFT • BUILT 1906
This Victorian-style residence, reportedly constructed in 1906 by Polk County lawyer Thomas Lee Wilson, stands as a timeless anchor of the community just blocks from Downtown.
It is famously known as the My Girl house from the beloved 1991 film starring Macaulay Culkin. It also had a memorable stint as the Stanford Inn Bed & Breakfast and, more recently, was the home where the nonprofit Hope House Florida had its start.
The wraparound porch stretches more than 1,500 square feet, making it an ideal spot to entertain folks or simply enjoy a cup of coffee at sunrise.
Significant renovations and upgrades in recent years have revitalized this beauty, blending its rich historic charm with thoughtful character and elegance
A one bedroom guest home at the back of the property matches the exterior aesthetic of the original home and delivers modern amenities on the inside.
Listed for $995,000 as of June 24, 2026.
355 S Broadway Ave
3 BEDS • 3 BATHS • 6,930 SQFT LOT • 1,534 SQFT • BUILT 1920
This well maintained Craftsman-style home built before the Great Depression offers timeless charm mixed with modern updates.
The inviting 30-foot porch is ideal for relaxing, entertaining or people watching.
Inside, the home has been thoughtfully updated to suit the modern lifestyle, including a fully renovated kitchen with a spacious walk-in pantry, updated baths, dual-zone central HVAC, refreshed interior paint, and recently upgraded electrical.
Original character shines throughout, paired seamlessly with modern conveniences.
The layout is open and welcoming, connecting the living room, dining area, and a bright bonus space, ideal for gatherings or everyday living.
Two bedrooms feature walk-in closets, along with easy walk-in attic access for additional storage. There is also a detached utility building with electricity, perfect for a workshop.
Listed for $250,000 as of June 24, 2026.
1095 S Broadway Ave
3 BEDS • 3 BATHS • 1.32 ACRE LOT • 2,238 SQFT • BUILT 1917
The design of this 109-year-old home was inspired by revered architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
The home showcases timeless architectural details, including a large front porch perfectly positioned to enjoy local parades.
Inside, you'll find 9-foot ceilings, 8-inch baseboards, original hardwood floors throughout most of the home, and some original leaded glass windows complemented by double-pane updates.
Natural light fills the spacious layout designed for comfortable multi-generational living.
The main level features a formal living room and dining room, a kitchen with butler's pantry, a convenient half bath, and a defined Florida Room with beautiful pebble stone flooring.
French doors open into the Florida Room, creating seamless flow for entertaining.
Located on a double lot at the corner of Broadway and Stuart, it is just a short walk to dining, shopping and more.
Listed for $475,000 as of June 24, 2026.
705 E Church Street
4 BEDS • 3 BATHS • 0.34 ACRE LOT • 3,124 SQFT • BUILT 1898
This folk Victorian home, one of the oldest houses in Bartow, appropriately sits in the heart of one of the city's historic districts.
It showcases many distinctive features from its time including clapboard siding, crown molding, built-in bookcases, double-sided wood burning fireplaces and original hardwood floors.
The home has large period windows offering tons of natural light and incredible views of the courtyard and other surrounding historic homes.
The spacious kitchen has recently been updated to include the conveniences of modern life with quartz countertops, stainless appliances, a brand new dishwasher, deep farmhouse sink, butler's pantry and gas range.
The ground floor master suite has a completely updated bathroom with walk-in glass shower enclosure, walk-in closet, shiplap walls, subway tiles and dual sinks.
A sunroom overlooks the large sweeping front porch.
Listed for $575,000 as of June 24, 2026.
