Owners look to sell historic Gufler Mansion in Emporia for $775,000

EMPORIA (KSNT) - The owners of a more than 100-year-old mansion in Emporia say they're looking for someone else to take up charge of their property and business.

Brad and Susan Cochennet own the Gufler Mansion in the City of Emporia. The couple announced on social media on May 3 they intend to sell the spacious mansion along with their bed and breakfast business so they can move out of state and be closer to family.

Brad, who grew up in Emporia, said he returned to the City after a 40-year absence. Together with Susan, they decided to invest in the community by purchasing the Gufler Mansion and turning it into a bed and breakfast and event venue.

Originally built in 1917 by the architect and Kansas historic figure Henry Brinkman, the mansion has changed hands many times over the years. Brinkman is also responsible for the design and construction of the Civic Auditorium in Emporia and the Hoisington High School.

"His [Brinkman] structures have stood the test of time all over Emporia," Brad said. "Withstood lot's of change over the years."

Susan and Brad acquired the property in 2016, renting out rooms and using it as their personal residence. It contains a total of 12 bedrooms with 22 beds and has a large amount of space inside and an exterior patio for hosting private get-togethers or celebrations.

"It's been a home for so many people, it just feels like its had a lot of love and usage," Brad said. "Really nice vibes to it."

All in all, the couple is asking for $775,000 for the property. This includes the bed and breakfast business and a commitment to any events on the books for the mansion. All furnishings and furniture inside the mansion will be include in the purchase. The goal is to sell the mansion without interfering in previous arrangements so guests won't miss a beat.

"We have an ongoing business of booking people for the bed and breakfast and for events," Brad said. "So, there is a business that comes with it if people want to serve that business. If we do sell it, we want it to go towards someone who will honor the events we've set up."

Brad said he and his wife are searching for new owners locally and haven't put the mansion up for sale online with any real estate companies yet. They want to make sure the mansion ends up in the best hands to continue caring for the property.

"The opportunity to share with individuals, family reunions, weddings where their families gather, and have the privilege of taking care of them and do once-in a lifetime events has been very emotional for us and we've enjoyed it a great deal," Brad said. "We've made many friends."

You can find the Gufler Mansion at 612 West 12th Avenue in Emporia. To learn more about the mansion, click here.

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