A Historic Home Renovation Company Sheds Light On Old Homes and Considerations to Keep In Mind When Planning Your Purchase
Kansas City is known for its rich history and stunning architecture, with neighborhoods filled with historic homes brimming with charm and character. For many, owning a historic home is a dream come true, offering a unique experience that Midwest American tract homes lack.
But buying a historic home also comes with its own set of challenges, so it’s important to know what you’re in for from the beginning. Let’s explore the pros and cons of buying a historic home in Kansas City to help you make an informed decision.
The Pros
Architectural Beauty and Character
Historic homes are celebrated for their unique architectural details and craftsmanship that are hard to find in new construction. Intricate woodwork, original hardwood floors, stained glass windows, and grand fireplaces offer a level of aesthetic appeal and character that is truly one-of-a-kind. Owning a historic home allows you to live in a piece of history and enjoy its authentic design.
Established Neighborhoods
Many historic homes are located in well-established neighborhoods with trees, parks, and a strong sense of community. These neighborhoods, such as Ward Parkway, Ward Estates, Brookside, Old Leawood, Roanoke, and Mission Hills, are welcoming and community-focused. Living in such an area can provide a sense of connection to the past, as well as the benefits of a thriving, healthy community that takes pride in its heritage.
Investment Potential
Historic homes can be a good investment, as their unique features and prime locations often appreciate in value over time. With proper maintenance and professional historic home renovations, these homes can offer substantial returns.
Additionally, many reputable historic home renovation companies have a wealth of expertise on how you can update your home, while maintaining and enhancing its historical features.
Historic Home Renovations in Kansas City Offer Opportunity For Customization
One of the exciting aspects of owning a historic home is the opportunity to customize it for modern living, without sacrificing its original charm and character. With the help of a trusted historic home renovation company, you can integrate modern amenities and conveniences into your home without compromising its historical integrity. This allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: a home that retains its unique historical features while meeting the demands of modern life.
Historical Significance
Owning a historic home gives you a tangible connection to the past. These homes often have stories and histories that contribute to their unique charm. Living in a home with historical significance can be a source of pride and a way to contribute to the preservation of the local heritage in Kansas City.
The Cons
Historic Home Renovations Often Required For Maintenance and Upkeep
Historic homes often require more maintenance and upkeep than newer homes. The materials and construction techniques used in the past, while durable, may need repairs and specialized care. Having a trusted historic home renovation company in Kansas City on your side is key to preserving the integrity and beauty of these homes, which can otherwise be a source of confusion or frustration for typical contractors.
Greater Investment
The cost of purchasing and renovating a historic home can be higher than that of a modern home that is already done and move-in ready. The specialized materials and skilled labor required for repairs and historic home renovations can add up quickly unless you have a reliable company that can predict problems and provide accurate estimates on work. Additionally, maintaining the historical accuracy of the home may involve sourcing period-appropriate materials and fixtures.
Energy Efficiency
Many historic homes were built before modern energy efficiency standards were established. As a result, they may lack insulation, rely on outdated heating and cooling systems or feature less advanced windows. Upgrading these homes to improve energy efficiency is a worthwhile investment, but one that needs to be made for long-term comfort and savings on energy bills. Thankfully, there is a strong return on investment for upgrades that make homes more energy efficient.
Potential For Unseen Issues
Older homes may have hidden issues that are not immediately apparent during a standard home inspection. These can include outdated electrical wiring, plumbing problems, foundation issues, or the presence of hazardous materials like lead paint or asbestos. It’s important to be prepared for the possibility of unexpected repairs and to have a contingency budget set aside for such situations.
Keep in mind, however, that surprises can come up even in new builds. The exchange here is that you get to live in a gorgeous historic home in a well established neighborhood instead!
The Verdict: A Historic Home Comes With Many Considerations, But a Reputable Historic Home Renovation Company Can Make the Difference
Buying a historic home in Kansas City is a decision that comes with rewards and challenges. The architectural beauty, unique neighborhoods, and potential for customization make these homes highly desirable. However, maintenance, potential unseen issues, and necessary upgrades are important to keep in mind when making your decision.
For those who value history, beauty, craftsmanship, and a unique living experience, the pros of owning a historic home outweigh the cons. By understanding the challenges and planning accordingly, you can enjoy the charm and character of an older home built prior to the 1940s while preserving its legacy for future generations.
If you’re considering purchasing a historic home, seek the expertise of professionals who specialize in historic home renovation. They can help you navigate the complexities of remodeling your home, ensuring that it remains a cherished piece of history while meeting the demands of modern living. With careful planning and the right support, owning a historic home in Kansas City is a deeply rewarding experience.
