Iowa couple transforms mold-riddled fire station into family home

Steven and Ashley Evans grew up near the Cedar Rapids fire station that later became the focus of their dream home project. In 2016 they submitted a surprise $90,000 bid for the mold-covered building, which was accepted despite their limited finances. Using a $170,000 construction loan tied to Steven’s rental-property business, they began a multi-year renovation that started with no walls, electricity or plumbing, and they lived in the space while working on it themselves.

Major expenses included drywall, flooring, a new roof and a kitchen addition, all sourced from clearance sales and donations. The couple preserved historic features such as the hose tower and skylight, added a backyard fire truck, a theater room and a turf-lined play area for their children. Subsequent refinancing in 2019 and 2024 increased their mortgage to about $3,190 per month, and they have also purchased neighboring homes for family use and short-term rentals.