1018 S ELM Avenue Virtually Staged. **This house comes with a REDUCED RATE through the seller's preferred lender. This is a lender-paid rate buydown that reduces the buyer's interest rate and monthly payment.** LIVE, WORK + PLAY IN THE HEART OF HISTORIC DOWNTOWN SANFORD! This restored 1910 Carriage House offers 780 SQ FT OF LOFT-STYLE LIVING filled with character, natural light and thoughtful updates. Original HEART PINE CONSTRUCTION + REFINISHED WOOD FLOORS (2023), high ceilings and original windows preserve the home's charm, while updated plumbing, electrical and spray foam insulation bring modern comfort. The kitchen features GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, NEW REFRIGERATOR + STOVE (2023), an UPDATED BACKSPLASH (2023), and a CUSTOM BUILT-IN BENCH (2023). A FULL HVAC SYSTEM REPLACEMENT (2024), including the heat pump, air handler, ducting and photocatalytic oxidative purifier, adds another major upgrade. The oversized Florida room brings in abundant natural light and creates an inviting extension of the living space. Downstairs, the approximately 480 SQ FT GARAGE offers substantial storage and flexible potential for a workshop, studio, office or future additional living space. One of the property's most unique opportunities is its placement at the REAR OF THE LOT, leaving room to potentially build a larger main residence toward the front, subject to City of Sanford and Historic Preservation Board approvals. Located in SANFORD'S GOLF CART DISTRICT, you're just blocks from Downtown Sanford's restaurants, breweries, shops, festivals, nightlife and year-round events, plus nearby Paw Park and the Sanford RiverWalk. Whether you're looking for a PRIMARY RESIDENCE, INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY OR A ONE-OF-A-KIND PROPERTY WITH FUTURE POTENTIAL, this historic Sanford home offers flexibility that's hard to find.