Two Buyers Purchase Historic Jefferson Street Properties in Burlington

“I could not have chosen better for those buildings. I really could not have,” said Cynthia Stiefel, the seller of two historic commercial properties in downtown Burlington.

The sale of two downtown parcels on Jefferson Street marks a transition for the historic block, with two separate owners stepping in to execute distinct redevelopment plans, The Hawk Eye reported.

Following an online auction conducted by Sullivan Auctioneers on Wednesday morning, Nov. 11, the properties are set to undergo renovations that could change local retail and residential patterns. The transaction includes the parcel housing Corked 101, Original Cyns, and CSky Boutique, as well as the historic Bookend Building.

The acquisition represents a strategic move for both buyers, who intend to use the high foot traffic of the Jefferson Street corridor to expand their existing business footprints or introduce new services to the community.

Different paths for Jefferson Street

Jesse Caston, a partner with CDM Real Estate Services, purchased the parcel at 514-520 Jefferson Street for $200,000. His immediate focus involves the building’s vacant second story, which requires substantial renovation.

While Caston is evaluating the best use for the upper level, he said that apartments are a distinct possibility. He also expressed a desire to maintain the current ground-floor tenants, which include the upscale wine and food bar Corked 101, the women’s clothing boutique Original Cyns, and the accessory retailer CSky Boutique.

“I love downtown Burlington. Just, where it’s been from 15 years ago to where it is now, with the restaurants and the retail and the businesses and the vibrancy of downtown. I’m definitely a big fan,” Caston told The Hawk Eye.

Jerilyn Horn, who owns Jerilyn Horn Kitchen & Bath Design Co., purchased the historic Bookend Building at 522 Jefferson Street for $185,000. Horn, currently operating out of a rented space at 413 Jefferson Street, plans to move her interior design studio into the first floor of the new building.

Two Buyers Purchase Historic Jefferson Street Properties in Burlington

The move is intended to solve functional limitations inherent in her current rental. Horn wants a space where she can install working displays, such as functioning faucets and specialized lighting, to better demonstrate her products to clients.

The Bookend Building, also known as the Forney and Mellinger buildings, dates back to 1883. According to the State Historical Society of Iowa, the matching three-story brick structures were built by brothers-in-law J.M. Forney and Samuel Mellinger to bookend a smaller central building.

Horn intends to preserve the historical integrity of the site, specifically citing her desire to maintain the exposed interior brick and natural materials. Her long-term vision for the upper two levels includes the creation of a three-bedroom, two-bathroom Airbnb to provide additional lodging options near local attractions like Snake Alley.

Horn plans extensive renovations for showroom opening by 2027

The revitalization of these aging structures involves significant capital investment. Horn expects to undertake extensive work involving plumbing, electrical systems, drywall, insulation, and flooring, with a goal of having her showroom operational by April or May 2027.

While the influx of new business and potential residential units suggests a boost to the local economy, the success of such projects often hinges on the ability to balance historic preservation with modern building codes and financial feasibility. Caston said that determining the viability of his upstairs renovation will take time.

Property Address	Buyer	Sale Price	Primary Intent
514-520 Jefferson St.	Jesse Caston	$200,000	Second-story renovation and tenant retention
522 Jefferson St.	Jerilyn Horn	$185,000	Kitchen & bath showroom and Airbnb lodging

The transition of ownership is scheduled for completion during the upcoming holiday season, with the closing and transfer of possession set for Dec. 22.

“I just have a love for historic buildings and history. The character,” Horn said regarding her decision to invest in the Bookend Building.