438A Main St., Franklin, NY 13775

One of the few remaining commercial buildings in the historic arts village of Franklin is available, and an existing grant, already approved, can help the new owner complete the work that was begun by the seller. The former William Hyzer and Sons Feed Store dominates the charming Main Street, sharing a wall with the building that houses LAVA Interiors. It is beside Kabinett & Kammer and Gary Graham422, and across from The Tulip and Rose restaurant. This "three brick" building is extra wide, and the inside space is bright and open. Downstairs features original wooden floors, 12 foot ceilings, wainscotted walls, and 1750 square feet of historic charm with a half bath and a kitchenette. The first level currently has no central heat. Upstairs, a one bedroom apartment is leased for $950/mo. It is warmed by propane/hot air heat. Another large, bright room upstairs is rented as an art studio for $750/mo. It, like downstairs, is unheated. The new owner will be eligible to be reimbursed for approved capital improvements up to $250K if work is completed and correct paperwork is submitted to the county office of Economic Development before May of 2027. What's already done: a new electric panel, new apartment water heater, mold remediation, storefront paint and wall repair, repair of original storefront windows, new roof and gutters in 2021, refinish of original iron facade, and refinish of the front deck in 2026. The planned grant work includes repointing and replacement, as needed, of exterior brick, adding heat to storefront and art studio, updating the shared septic to a Fuji Clean system, adding a bathroom on the first floor for the art studio tenant, adding a ramp to the side of the building for accessibility, and creating a deck off the back of the building. Every capital improvement listed is eligible for reimbursement up to $250K under the terms of the grant. Behind the building, not included in sale, is more commercial space across the parking lot that is home to the Good Taste Epicurean Market and Good Taste Fine Wine and Spirits. If your dream is to open a business in a thriving small upstate village in the Catskills, this is your golden opportunity. The current owner has put love and money into renovating this building, and has clear information on what projects remain. The county Office for Economic Development has been working closely with seller and will help guide the buyer through the grant reimbursement process. Franklin is a small village with a big reputation. A National Historic district, it draws visitors from all over every summer for its unique decor and antique shops, as well as professional shows at the Franklin Stage. It hosts the Stagecoach Run Art Festival each July and gets many visitors in the area for the popular baseball programs in Cooperstown and Oneonta. If you are an investor, this location will be easy to rent. The village has no coffee shop or bakery, no general store, and no full grocery - these are all businesses that would be welcomed by locals and visitors alike. A cafe would do well, and village regulations allow the sale of alcohol with meals. This substantial brick building has seen Franklin's past and present, and will be an important part of its future.