Buying a historic home offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of the past, filled with character, craftsmanship, and architectural detail you won’t find in newer builds. But along with that charm comes a different set of responsibilities, from understanding original materials to planning for ongoing maintenance. For many buyers, the key is learning how to preserve what makes the home special while still making it functional for modern living.

In this Redfin article, we’ll explore what to know before purchasing a historic home and how to protect its defining features for years to come. From navigating local guidelines in Alexandria, VA, to restoring original details in New Orleans, LA, these expert-backed insights will help homeowners make thoughtful, informed decisions.

In this article: 
What is considered a historic home?
What to know before buying a historic home
6 tips for preserving a historic home
Final thoughts: Think like a steward, not just an owner
FAQs: Buying and preserving a historic home

What is considered a historic home?

A historic home is generally defined as a property that is at least 50 years old and retains notable architectural, cultural, or historical significance. Age alone isn’t always enough – many formal designations also require that the home maintains its original character and integrity. These homes often feature original materials, craftsmanship, and design elements that reflect a specific time period or style – like Victorian, Craftsman, or Colonial architecture.

Some historic homes are located within designated historic districts or are listed on preservation registers. While this recognition can offer benefits like potential tax incentives or grants, it may also come with guidelines on what changes you can (and can’t) make – especially if local preservation ordinances apply or if the property is subject to specific agreements or funding requirements.

Here’s what typically qualifies a home as “historic”:

• Age. Most historic homes are at least 50 years old, though some designations may require the home to be even older.
• Architectural significance. The home reflects a specific style, construction method, or notable design trend.
• Historical importance. It may be associated with a significant event, time period, or person.
• Level of preservation. Key original features – like windows, woodwork, or layout – are still intact.

What are historic districts?

Historic districts are areas recognized for their collective historical or architectural significance, rather than a single property. These neighborhoods often include multiple homes or buildings that share a common style, era, or cultural importance.

Living in a historic district can come with added guidelines – especially for exterior changes – to help preserve the overall character of the area. While this can limit certain renovations, it also helps maintain the neighborhood’s historic charm and may contribute to long-term stability in property values, depending on the market and local policies. 

Here are a few well-known examples of historic districts:

• Georgetown Historic District in Washington, DC. Known for its Federal-style rowhouses and cobblestone streets.
• French Quarter in New Orleans, LA. Famous for its Spanish and French colonial architecture and vibrant cultural history.
• Savannah Historic District in Savannah, GA. Recognized for its preserved grid layout, public squares, and antebellum homes.

What to know before buying a historic home

Buying a historic home comes with unique considerations that go beyond the standard home buying process. From preservation guidelines to long-term maintenance, it’s important to understand both the responsibilities and rewards before making a decision.

1. Understand the home’s story and structure

Before making an offer, take time to understand both the history and the physical condition of the home. Historic properties are defined by their craftsmanship, materials, and architectural intent – so knowing what’s original (and worth preserving) can help guide smarter decisions from the start.

“Buying a historic home is about understanding its story as much as its structure, always prioritizing retaining original features, and working with specialists who respect the building’s heritage,” states Nick Cryer, founder of Berkeley Place. “Sensitive restoration, rather than wholesale replacement, not only preserves character but often delivers better long-term value.”

• Research the home’s background. Look into when it was built, past owners, and any historical significance.
• Identify original features. Elements like woodwork, windows, flooring, and layout often define the home’s character.
• Assess structural condition. Pay close attention to the foundation, roof, and major systems to understand potential repair needs.
• Document what’s been changed. Previous renovations can impact both value and future restoration plans.

2. Be prepared for financing, insurance, and regulations

Financing and insuring a historic home can look a little different than a standard purchase, especially if the property requires repairs or falls within a designated historic district. Lenders and insurers may take a closer look at the home’s condition, materials, and replacement costs, which can impact your options and overall budget.

• Explore loan options early. Some buyers use conventional financing, while others may consider programs like an FHA loan. For homes that need significant repairs, FHA 203(k) loans are often used, as they allow buyers to finance both the purchase and renovation costs within a single mortgage. 
• Expect higher insurance considerations. Older materials and specialized craftsmanship can increase the cost to repair or rebuild, which may raise premiums.
• Understand local regulations. Historic designations – whether local, state, or federal – can come with guidelines on renovations, especially for exterior changes.
• Look into incentives. Some areas offer tax credits, grants, or financial programs to help offset the cost of preserving historic properties. Keep in mind that federal tax credits typically apply to income-producing properties, while incentives for owner-occupied homes are more commonly offered at the state or local level. 
• Understand approval timelines. In some cases, renovations to historic homes may require review by a local historic preservation board or similar authority. This process can add time to your project, particularly for exterior changes or structural updates, so it’s important to plan accordingly and factor potential delays into your timeline. 

3. Always prioritize a specialized inspection

Historic homes often come with layers of history – some visible, and some hidden behind walls, floors, and previous renovations. That’s why a standard home inspection may not be enough to fully understand the condition of the property or anticipate future repairs.

A thorough, experienced inspection helps you understand what you’re buying beyond surface-level charm and ensures you’re prepared for both immediate and long-term maintenance needs.

• Hire an inspector experienced with historic homes. They’ll be more familiar with older construction methods and materials.
• Look for outdated systems. Electrical, plumbing, roofing, and HVAC systems may not meet modern standards.
• Check for hidden structural issues. Foundation settling, moisture damage, or prior “quick fixes” can be common in older homes.
• Assess materials carefully. Elements like plaster, knob-and-tube wiring, or original windows may require specialized repair rather than replacement.

4. Expect ongoing maintenance costs

Owning a historic home means embracing the reality that maintenance is not a one-time project – it’s an ongoing responsibility. Because many of these homes were built with older materials and techniques, upkeep often requires more frequent attention and specialized care than newer construction.

• Budget for continuous upkeep. Routine repairs are part of preserving the home’s character and preventing larger issues down the line.
• Plan for specialized labor and materials. Matching original finishes or restoring historic features can require skilled craftspeople and custom sourcing.
• Prioritize preventative care. Regular maintenance of roofs, gutters, windows, and exterior materials helps avoid costly structural damage.
• Expect variability in costs. Some years may be light on repairs, while others may require more significant investment depending on the home’s condition.

5. Be aware of common issues in older homes

Historic homes often come with hidden challenges that aren’t always visible during a standard walkthrough. Understanding these common issues ahead of time can help you plan for repairs, budget more accurately, and avoid surprises after closing.

• Look for potential safety concerns. Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint, and some materials – like insulation or flooring – may include asbestos that requires specialized handling.
• Check for outdated electrical systems. Knob-and-tube wiring or older panels may not meet modern safety standards and can impact both insurance and financing.
• Evaluate plumbing and sewer systems. Older homes may have galvanized pipes or aging sewer lines that are prone to corrosion, leaks, or root intrusion.
• Expect energy inefficiencies. Historic homes were not built with modern insulation standards, which can lead to drafts, higher utility bills, and uneven heating or cooling.

6 tips for preserving a historic home

Preserving a historic home takes thoughtful care, consistent maintenance, and a respect for the craftsmanship that makes it unique. While these homes often require more attention than newer properties, the reward is keeping their character and history intact for years to come.

1. Identify and protect character-defining features

One of the most important steps in preserving a historic home is understanding what truly makes it unique. These “character-defining features” are the architectural details and original materials that give the home its identity, and they should be carefully protected whenever possible during updates or renovations.

“Rehabbing a historic house to accommodate contemporary life will nearly always require making changes,” states Scott Hanson, blogger at Your Historic House and author of Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners. “Before rushing into alterations, it is important to understand what are the significant, or character-defining features and prioritize preserving at least the most important of them. Understanding what these features are and preserving them is often also the most economical approach to renovation – the less historic material you rip out, the less you need to replace with modern materials.”

• Look for defining details. Original trim, moldings, flooring, windows, staircases, and built-ins often carry the home’s historic value.
• Avoid unnecessary replacement. Removing original materials can permanently diminish both character and authenticity.
• Prioritize preservation in planning. Identify which features must be preserved before starting any renovation work.
• Work with preservation-minded professionals. Contractors and designers experienced in historic homes can help guide sensitive updates.

2. Choose repair over replacement whenever possible

When maintaining a historic home, one of the most important principles is preserving original materials whenever you can. Repairing existing features not only helps maintain the home’s authenticity, but it often results in better long-term value and cost savings compared to full replacement.

“Repairing historic features is almost always less expensive than replacing them with new materials of equal quality,” says Scott Hanson. 

3. Focus on preventative maintenance first

When it comes to historic homes, staying ahead of problems is far more effective – and often more affordable – than reacting to them after damage has occurred.

• Stay consistent with exterior upkeep: Regularly inspect and maintain roofs, gutters, siding, and drainage systems to prevent water damage.
• Watch for early warning signs: Address small issues like peeling paint, minor leaks, or drafts before they become major repairs.
• Protect original materials: Routine care helps extend the life of historic features like woodwork, masonry, and windows.
• Schedule seasonal maintenance: Checking the home at least twice a year can help catch issues early and reduce unexpected surprises.

4. Start with the exterior systems

The exterior of a historic home plays a critical role in protecting everything inside. By starting with the exterior systems, homeowners can protect the integrity of the entire structure and reduce the risk of costly interior repairs over time.

“Preserving a historic home starts on the outside: the roof, siding, and windows are your first line of defense against the outside elements, and when they fail, the damage works its way in fast,” says Alyssa Rivers, marketing manager at Atlantic Craftsman.

• Prioritize roof maintenance: A well-maintained roof helps prevent leaks, water intrusion, and long-term structural damage.
• Care for siding and exterior materials: Regular upkeep preserves both appearance and protection from the elements.
• Maintain or restore original windows: Repairing historic windows can often preserve character while improving performance.
• Address exterior issues quickly: Small exterior problems can escalate rapidly if left unattended.

5. Work with specialists who understand historic homes

Historic homes require a different level of care than modern construction, which is why choosing the right professionals is so important. Contractors and craftspeople who specialize in restoration understand how to preserve original details while making necessary updates that respect the home’s character.

Alyssa Rivers explains: “The key is finding contractors who understand that replacement doesn’t have to change the home’s character or charm. We’ve been helping homeowners protect and restore their homes for over 50 years, and the biggest thing we’ve learned is that replacement doesn’t have to mean losing the home’s unique character. With the right materials and attention to detail, you can honor what’s there, protect what matters, and keep the home looking the way it was meant to look for another generation.”

• Hire preservation-minded contractors: Look for experience with older homes and traditional building methods.
• Prioritize craftsmanship over convenience: Skilled restoration often preserves more of the original structure.
• Use appropriate materials: Matching or closely replicating original materials helps maintain authenticity.
• Communicate long-term goals: Make sure your team understands the importance of preserving character, not just completing repairs.

6. Modernize carefully and thoughtfully

One of the biggest challenges in owning a historic home is finding the right balance between preserving original character and adding modern comforts. While updates are often necessary for livability, they should be approached in a way that respects the home’s design, materials, and craftsmanship.

“Crucially, balance is key: introduce modern comforts like insulation and efficient services in a way that enhances the building’s performance without compromising its architectural integrity,” Nick Cryer adds.

• Improve efficiency discreetly: Add insulation, HVAC, and energy-efficient systems in ways that don’t alter original design elements.
• Preserve visible character: Keep architectural details like moldings, windows, and façades intact whenever possible.
• Blend old and new thoughtfully: Aim for updates that enhance comfort while staying visually consistent with the home’s era.

Final thoughts: Think like a steward, not just an owner

Buying a historic home is as much about preservation as it is about ownership, requiring thoughtful decisions that honor its past while supporting your present-day needs. By prioritizing original features, investing in proper maintenance, and working with experienced professionals, you can protect both the home’s character and its long-term value. With the right approach, your home can continue to tell its story for generations to come.

FAQs: Buying and preserving a historic home

Do historic homes always have restrictions on renovations?

Not always. Restrictions typically depend on whether the home is individually designated or located within a historic district. Local guidelines may apply, especially for exterior changes, but rules vary widely by city and designation type.

Are historic homes more expensive to maintain?

In many cases, yes. Older materials and specialized craftsmanship can increase repair costs, and maintenance tends to be more frequent. However, preserving existing features can sometimes be more cost-effective than full replacements over time.

>>Read more: 27 Common Hidden Issues in Older Homes (and How to Spot Them Before You Buy)

Can you use a mortgage like an FHA loan to buy a historic home?

Yes, some buyers use an FHA loan to purchase older or fixer-upper historic homes, especially if repairs are needed. Eligibility depends on the property’s condition and whether it meets loan requirements after necessary improvements.

>>Check out: What is an FHA loan?

How do I know if a home is officially historic?

A home may be listed on the National Register of Historic Places or designated by a state or local preservation authority. However, many historic-style homes are simply old properties without formal designation.

Do historic homes hold their value well?

They often do, especially when well-maintained and properly preserved. Homes with strong architectural character or located in established historic districts may see steady demand over time, though value trends can vary depending on location and market conditions.

>>Discover: How to Sell a Historical House in 2025

The Brooklyn Park property at 46-50 Marshall Tce has a colourful history.

A historic Brooklyn Park property that served as a convent, orphanage and a Catholic schoolhouse looks set for redevelopment after being offered for sale for the first time in 40 years.

While a grand five-bedroom home dating back to the late 1800s has local heritage status and cannot be demolished, the sales listing for 46-50 Marshall Tce says there’s possibility to rezone it for commercial use.

The remainder of the expansive 4457sqm property, which spans four titles, “represents the ultimate blank canvas for the creative developer’’, the listing says, suited to luxury townhouses or mixed-use development.

It’s served as a convent, orphanage and a Catholic schoolhouse over the years.

It’s dated and in need of some TLC.

Vendor Martin Brennan, whose late parents bought the property four decades ago, said the home started out as a convent for the Salesian Sisters.

Before conversion to a family home, he said the building included a chapel – with stained glass windows above the entry door still bearing the initials SJB, in homage of Saint John Bosco.

The building later became a Salesian college, Mr Brennan said, where one of his brothers – who attended the school as a youngster some 20 years before the family purchased the property – received a “slap over the wrists by one of the nuns’’.

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A three-storey building at the rear of the property, long since demolished, was known as St John’s Boys Town, which records show was an orphanage but Mr Brennan said was used as the college boarding house.

Records also show the former building earlier operated as the St John the Baptist Home for Boys – which provided alternative accommodation for Catholic boys committed to the Boys’ Reformatory at Magill from 1898.

However, Mr Brennan said the Home, once described as an “institution for the education and training of uncontrollable boys’’, was on an adjacent site and was never on his parent’s property.

It’s on a huge 4457sqm block in the middle of suburbia.

It’s close to Adelaide CBD.

After his family bought the home, Mr Brennan said local clergy visited regularly and the residence became somewhat of a “24-7’’ drop-in centre for local youth.

“My mother was trained as a counsellor and … she just helped young people to navigate their way through life,’’ he said.

“There’s hundreds and hundreds of young people and families that knew our parents very well and would know the house very well.’’

With younger generations of the family not sharing the same attachment to the home, Mr Brennan and his siblings have reluctantly decided to sell.

He said the property would suit development for retirement living, with the home repurposed as an office and allied health space, to meet local needs.

“It’s going to be a bit sad (to sell) but you’ve got to be careful about growing too attached to things,’’ he said.

“It’s (a property that has) always been of service in some shape or form to the community.

“It would be good to see it repurposed and serving the community again.’’

Offers for the property, which is listed without a price guide with Ray White Henley Beach, close on May 4.

– Lauren Ahwan

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The site of Geelong’s first brewery at 99-101 Corio St is scheduled to be auctioned on March 25.

For more than 180 years, the home of Geelong’s first brewery has been steeped in the social fabric of the city.

Now the historic landmark, best know to many as the former Scottish Chief’s hotel, is looking to forge a new future.

Gartland, Geelong agents Michael De Stefano and Tony Young are taking the inner city property to auction on March 25 in the hope of finding a buyer keen to revitalise its reputation as a hospitality venue.

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The main bar at the former hotel is housed in a double height historic building.

Other parts of the original building retain period features, including an open fireplace.

Upstairs offers another flexible space with a timber-lined ceiling.

Price hopes are $1.825m to $2m for the 752sq m corner site at 99-101 Corio St, Geelong.

Once a booming night spot, it has most recently operated as LP Geelong and previously housed Taco Bill restaurant, but is currently sitting vacant.

Mr De Stefano said the uniqueness of the circa 1840 brewery had generated several inquiries early in the campaign.

“There’s a huge history in the place. Obviously it was the site of the original site of the Geelong brewery and I think most Geelong people would know it as Scottish Chiefs,” he said.

“Interest has come in for all sorts of things. It’s got north-facing orientation over the car park to the water and Central Activity Zone 1.

“Its most obvious uses would be a restaurant, bar, nightclub, obviously offices or any sort of hospitality mixed used site and there is accommodation there.”

Bluestone features are still on display inside the former pub.

The two-storey cream brick building neighbours is right near Westfield Geelong and close the waterfront.

The new owner could chose to revive the old beer garden.

The property comprises a circa 1848 hotel building and another in-fill building linking through to the remnants of the original Volum’s Geelong Brewery, including a bluestone malthouse dating back to 1851.

It returned to its roots in the 1990s when it was reborn as one of Australia’s early microbreweries.

Mr Gartland said it had been an owner-occupied site up until late last year so was in operable condition, though the new owner would likely want to make their own improvements, subject to council and heritage approval.

He said the gutted old bluestone building had been used a beer garden which could be retained as part of a new venue.

“The local market has really jumped onto it because they know what it is, but we’re getting outside interest as well, primarily because of its proximity to Westfield,” he said.

He said larger hotel groups were also eyeing the Geelong pub market generally, given it had its name in lights as the second fastest growing area in Australia.

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Old Bush Mill, No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur. Picture: Supplied

What’s next for Port Arthur’s Old Bush Mill? Well, that could be up to you.

Elders Tasmania has listed for sale No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur as a residential and a commercial offering.

Agent John Blacklow said while the property has been used as a home since 2006, Port Arthur locals certainly remember it as a “thriving tourist attraction” operated by the Mathiesons.

“In its heyday it was very popular,” he said.

“There are two buyer demographics. Firstly, to retain as is.

“The main house is renovated and the second accommodation studio unit is very up-market.

“A third building could be developed for further accommodation use.

“It is a property that would be great for a family acquisition in an idyllic bush setting.

“Secondly, an entrepreneurial buyer could develop it for further tourism use.

“There are previous DAs for accommodation expansion.

“Other tourism uses — such as retail for wine, providore, cheeses, honey, arts and crafts, cafe — could well be considered.”

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No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

Mr Blacklow said the site has been partly developed, but with plenty of scope for the next owner to put their own stamp on it.

“There is also a good access road down to the waterfront. And the property comes with a mooring, so, the addition of a jetty could be considered,” he said.

The property is adjacent to the Fox and Hounds Hotel, and about 100km southwest of Hobart.

It is close to the Port Arthur Historic Site, cafes, beaches and boat ramps.

No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

On its 4ha of land there is a shop building, demountable studio, seven-bedroom residence, various structures and sheds, and the private mooring.

Its zoning is ‘Rural’.

In 1986, this property was developed as a tourist destination, featuring an authentic replica 19th-century sawmill settlement, heritage buildings with working craftsmen, and the distinctive Bush Mill Railway.

The railway was a notable attraction — a 15-inch gauge miniature line featuring a half-scale replica of K1, the world’s first Garratt locomotive.

The scenic route incorporated loops, zigzags, and the iconic Serpentine Bridge, winding down to the Fox and Hounds Hotel on the Arthur Highway.

No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

No.6827 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur.

The complex ceased operations in 2004, with all equipment subsequently divested.

The Mathieson family sold the property to Federal Group in 2006.

The current owners have had it since mid-2002. It has been listed for sale because it is surplus to their current needs.

For curious parties, there are Bush Mill Railway videos still available online on YouTube.

No.6827 Arthur Highway, Port Arthur is listed for sale at “Offers over $1.975m”. Contact John Blacklow or Rorie M Auld for details.

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Renders of Teak development at Mudgeeraba.

A landmark multimillion-dollar development is set to revolutionise a Gold Coast suburb with a new pub and retail hub.

Construction is set to start on Teak, a mixed-use commercial development in Mudgeeraba offering space for 14 tenants.

Renders of Teak development at Mudgeeraba.

Renders of Teak development at Mudgeeraba.

Renders of Teak development at Mudgeeraba.

It’s the first commercial project for local residents Lauren and Mitch Milne, who have completed 10 residential developments in the past five years.

Teak replaces the historic Woodchoppers Pub on Railway St, which is set to be demolished this week.

The new development is expected to become a hub for both operators and the wider community with new opportunities for hospitality, health and fitness, medical and retail businesses.

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Renders of Teak development at Mudgeeraba.

Woodchoppers Pub will be demolished to make way for Teak.

Renders of Teak development at Mudgeeraba.

Councillor Glenn Tozer says Teak represents confidence in Mudgeeraba’s future. Photo: Annette Dew

Division 9 Councillor Glenn Tozer said developments like Teak played a critical role in strengthening Mudgeeraba’s local economy.

“This project creates new commercial opportunities that will attract quality businesses across hospitality, health and fitness, and retail — industries that directly benefit local residents and enhance the vitality of the village,” Cr Tozer said.

Renders of Teak development at Mudgeeraba.

A key feature of the development is its nod to local heritage — the original Woodchoppers site will be paid homage through a new restaurant and pub secured by The Australian German Club.

“It’s encouraging to see a development that acknowledges the history of an iconic site while reimagining it for a growing community,” Cr Tozer said.

“Retaining a hospitality offering here ensures that the spirit of the Woodchoppers site lives on,

while delivering a modern destination that reflects where Mudgeeraba is heading.”

Renders of Teak development at Mudgeeraba.

Construction, to be handled by NthStar Constructions, is expected to take 12 months.

A number of commercial sites remain for sale or lease, offering businesses and investors an opportunity to secure a position in one of Mudgeeraba’s most prominent new developments.

“Teak represents confidence in Mudgeeraba’s future,” Cr Tozer said.

“It sends a clear message that this is a place worth investing in — a community that supports business, growth and quality development.”

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