In 1884, the Whaleys purchased their parcel on East Kearsley Street at the price of $8,000. Nearly a year later the Whaleys moved into their new home. Below is an excerpt from an article that appeared in the October 10, 1885 edition of the Genesee Democrat. Titled "Signs of Prosperity," the article detailed a number of recent construction projects in the City of Flint that included the Whaleys' residence:

R. J. Whaley,

On Kearsley Street East. This is a magnificent residence, and will rank among the elegant homes of the state. It is built of brick and stone, of a mixed style of architecture, and with the accompaniment of the handsome grounds, it presents a very pleasing picture to the eye. The house is three stories in height, and was built under the supervision of Reuben Van Tifflin and A. J. Hall from plans furnished by a leading Detroit architect. The cost of the residence and carriage house was about $16,000, and it makes an elegant home. The interior finish of the house is exceptionally fine. Mr. Whaley moved into his new house a few days ago.

Notes:
Reuben Van Tifflin was Mary Whaley's uncle; he was married to her mother's sister, Sarah.

The architect from Detroit was George Watkins. 

In today's money, the $24,000 the Whaleys spent on their property and home is nearly equal to $547,000.