Historic-district house renovation?

Question

I'm interested in buying an historic house, but it needs a lot of work.
But... do I have to renovate it a certain way? Say if I were wacky, and wanted to give it a futuristic/sci-fi look, could the government, or some organisation, stop me from doing it?

In other words, are there some rules or limits on how I might renovate a historic-district house?

Please only reply if you know the answer, I don't need "guesses". Thank you!

Answer 1

If the home is part of the national register of historic homes, then yes there will be rules. You can also check with the city hall to see what other restrictions exist for renovating in a historic district.



Several years ago, someone bought a home in my old neighborhood and didn't really conform to the rules. Controversy led to many city meetings, articles in the newspaper, and eventually the owners had to spend many thousands of dollars to fix what they had done.

Answer 2

Yes, they can dictate everything about these homes if it has been registered as a historic home. You are supposed to use materials similar to what would have been used when the home was erected. For instance, don't expect to put vinyl siding on or vinyl flooring in.



My real estate law teacher always told us to stay far away from these homes.

Answer 3

if it's truly in a historical district you need to check with the local municipality and historical preservation committee. they will let you know what you can and can not do.



if you want to make significant changes like adding a 1/2 bath you may need to file architectural plans with them for approval.



they can dictate everything you do down to the exact color of the paint outside.

Answer 4

It all depends on if you are required to join a preservation or historical society as a condition to buying the home.