This property in Wapello County features a beautiful barndominium-style home situated on 40 secluded acres of mixed timber and pasture ground. Tucked into a private setting, it was designed with the homesteader and hobby farmer in mind, offering ample space for livestock, gardening, and horticulture while also delivering excellent hunting and recreational opportunities.

Conveniently located just 3/4 of a mile off hard-surfaced Lake Road, the property provides quick access to pavement while maintaining true rural privacy. It is located less than 5 miles southwest of Ottumwa, approximately 31 miles from Oskaloosa, and about 90 miles from Des Moines.

The original structure was built in 2018 and encompasses a total of 1,792 square feet. The west portion includes approximately 1,086 square feet of finished living space, completed in 2022, including a recently added bedroom and large walk-in closet in 2026 that make the home fully functional and comfortable. The east portion remains open shop space and was originally designed to accommodate a camper, with direct pull-in access and the ability to hook up to both electrical and septic systems.

Currently, the shop space adds exceptional flexibility for guests or additional living quarters while also serving as ideal storage for vehicles, equipment, or workshop use. This area also presents a strong opportunity for future expansion, as additional portions could be finished to create a larger multi-family or multi-generational living setup if desired.

The home is thoughtfully designed to maximize both comfort and efficiency, featuring one bedroom with a large walk-in closet, one full bathroom, a laundry area, and a spacious kitchen and living room. A centrally located safe room provides secure storage and storm protection when needed.

The eat-in kitchen includes high-end appliances and custom cabinetry crafted by local artisans. A large portable island provides additional workspace and functionality. The living room features a quality wood-burning stove along with an electric heating and cooling system for year-round comfort. The newly added bedroom enhances the home's livability, making it well-suited for full-time residence or a weekend retreat.

Step outside to enjoy the covered patio, scenic landscaping, and peaceful natural surroundings—an ideal setting for morning coffee or evening sunsets.

A short walk from the home leads to a large fenced garden area, chicken coop, and wood shed. Along the edge of the timber is a well-established orchard featuring multiple fruit tree varieties, complemented by native wildflower and forb plantings that support pollination and productivity.

Further up the ridgetop, a large pasture area with scattered trees provides excellent grazing opportunities for livestock. The pasture is currently fenced for horses. The fencing, feeder, and pens are not included in the sale but may be negotiated separately.

The timber consists of a strong mix of native hardwoods and cedars, offering excellent wildlife cover while also providing natural winter refuge for livestock. Importantly, the timber is enrolled in Timber Reserve, significantly reducing property taxes and enhancing long-term affordability. A small pond located within a timber clearing provides a dependable water source for both livestock and wildlife.

Currently operated as a hobby farm, the property also offers strong potential as a hunting retreat. Located in one of Southern Iowa's premier hunting regions, the existing habitat could easily be enhanced with strategically placed food plots to attract and hold deer and turkey from the surrounding area, creating a highly productive hunting property.

Alternatively, for buyers seeking a build-to-site close to town, the existing infrastructure is already in place. The septic system was installed to accommodate a larger residence, providing excellent flexibility for future construction.

The following items are not included in the sale but may be negotiated separately: water filtration system, washer and dryer, lawn mower, dehydrator, round pen, electric fencing system, catch pen, and horse feeder.

Whether you're searching for a turnkey homestead, hobby farm, hunting property, or peaceful rural retreat, this property offers a rare combination of privacy, usability, and location.

**SHOWING NOTICE: All showings are subject to seller approval and scheduling. Buyer's agents must provide the name(s) of prospective purchaser(s) prior to scheduling a showing. Contact the listing agent regarding restricted buyer requirements.

For your own private showing, contact Whitetail Properties Land Specialist, Hersh Smith at 641-931-6884.