A single mom took a risky bet, dropping her last $900 on a rundown, abandoned house. What she found inside changed her life for good

The next day, Anna met her best friend, Paula Richards, replacing Tasha from the original story, at the cafe where Anna worked mornings. While clearing tables, Anna explained, Paula, I found an old farm at auction for $750. It sounds crazy, but I’m really desperate.

Paula’s eyes widened. Anna, you know why it’s that cheap, don’t you? Probably a bad foundation, black mold, or something worse. With Alex’s asthma, how could you manage? And how would you pay for repairs? Anna quietly replied, I know.

But we only have 29 days before we have nowhere to stay. I can’t rent a decent place. This is the only shot I see as remotely possible.

At least if I buy it, I’ll have my own land and no one can kick me out. Paula remained concerned but had no alternative solutions. Finally, she sighed.

All right, give it a try. But be careful. Remember Alex.

On the morning of the auction, Anna took off from the cafe. She wore a well-worn navy blazer and carefully tucked her $900 in cash into a sealed envelope. Before leaving home, she hugged Alex.

Good luck today, Alex. Good luck? For what, Mom? He asked, puzzled. I’ll pick you up early this afternoon.

I’ll explain then. Though uncertain, Alex nodded, trusting his mother. The Hartfield County Courthouse was a large building with marble corridors and classic statues along the walls.

Anna felt small among the polished, affluent crowd, mostly real estate investors. Rows of chairs faced a wooden podium where the auctioneer stood with a gavel. Anna chose a seat in the back, trying to stay invisible.

She listened, studying how other properties were sold. Bidding on each started at a few thousand dollars but quickly soared into the tens of thousands. Her hope slowly faded.

Finally, the auctioneer announced, Next up, lot number 124, property Willow Creek Farm, 3 acres, 648 Willow Creek Road. Starting bid, $750. Silence fell.

Anna held her breath. Fortunately, no one else seemed interested. Do I hear $750? With her heart pounding, Anna hesitantly raised her hand.

$750 from the lady in the navy blazer. Do I have $800? A gray-haired man sitting in the corner, scrolling on his phone, lifted his hand indifferently. $800? Anna bit her lip and continued.

$850. The man raised. $900.

That was Anna’s full amount. She couldn’t go another $50. She had to decide.

Withdraw or plunge ahead. She declared, $900 as I match the $900? The auctioneer frowned. The current bid is already $900.

Would you like to raise? Anna shook her head firmly. I only have $900. Either I buy it or I walk away.

The man glanced up at her with disinterest, then shrugged. I’m out. That place is too run down.

The auctioneer banged his gavel. Sold to her for $900. Anna felt dizzy…