There’s something magical about watching the past come back to life especially when it’s done with heart, vision, and a deep love for community. In the quiet town of Minden, Louisiana, one woman is rewriting the future by restoring the past.
In 2021, Sara took a leap of faith. She purchased a long abandoned, 1930s era apartment complex eight units in total for just $50,000. It was a bold move envision by a dream: to transform this old property into something beautiful, something long lasting. This villas now art of symbol.
Vision to Dream
The journey was not easy at all, When Sara first laid eyes on the property, it was old and not in proper shape as ceilings are caving and windows were shattered. It looked like that last owner simple walk out for decades. it was totally mess and she just laughed and keep her spirit on.
What followed was a whirlwind of financing, budgeting, and problem-solving. After discovering the property was filled with environmental hazards like asbestos and lead paint, Sara secured a 0% interest loan through Louisiana’s Brownfields Program, which provided $46,000 for remediation. She sold a property in Texas, put every dollar she could from other income streams, and eventually secured an interim loan from a local bank to finish the job.
Over the course of 18 months, Sara poured her time, energy, and roughly $780,000 into restoring the property. The results speak for themselves. Each Villa is bright, colorful and full of charm and spaces are just amazingly decorated. paint and original work introduced carefully.
Even all little details handled like expert to keep the villas genuinely joyful. From vibrant bedrooms and hand-painted tile repairs to Murphy beds and indoor swings, no corner was overlooked. Even the outdoor spaces were reimagined with string lights, communal fire pits, and patios, encouraging guests to connect with each other and with the spirit of the place.
In 2024, The Villas at Spanish Court had a 47% occupancy rate and generated $220,000 in revenue, with an average nightly rate of $143. Every dollar is currently being reinvested into the business, but Sara is playing the long game. As the goal to make full profit within five years seems attainable by looking at current growth.
Amazing transformation
Sara’s story is more than one of real estate success, it’s about community transformation. She now owns 27 properties in the region, ranging from short and long-term rentals to vacant land. Her mission is clear: bring beauty, function, and pride back to overlooked spaces. I know she is working hard for great innovation.
With every villa restored and every guest welcomed, Sara is building more than a business and she’s building a legacy. One that will ripple through Minden for generations to come.
