The Pros and Cons of Buying a Historic Home in Long Beach: What You Need to Know

 

Purchasing a historic home can be an exciting and rewarding journey, but it’s essential to be aware of both the perks and potential pitfalls that come with owning a piece of history. Long Beach, with its beautiful historic districts, offers unique homes that are full of charm, character, and architectural beauty. However, as with any old property, there are special considerations to keep in mind.

 

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of buying a historic home in Long Beach, so you can make a well-informed decision.

 

 

One of the most significant advantages of owning a historic home is its unique architectural charm. Many historic homes boast distinctive designs that are rarely found in modern houses. From intricate woodwork to hand-crafted details and soaring ceilings, these homes have character that sets them apart from newer builds. If you're someone who loves history and appreciates the craftsmanship of past eras, a historic home can be a dream come true.

 

 

Restoring and maintaining a historic home can be expensive, but there are tax incentives available for homeowners who take on restoration projects. Certain cities, including Long Beach, offer grants and financial assistance to help with preserving the integrity of historic homes. If you're up for a project, these incentives can help offset some of the costs associated with restoring your property to its former glory.

 

 

Owning a historic home allows you to become part of the history of the community. Long Beach, in particular, has a deep connection to its past, and living in one of its historic districts can provide a sense of pride and connection to the area’s heritage. Plus, many of these neighborhoods are active in preserving their charm and community identity, offering a great opportunity for those who want to be involved.

 

 

While historic homes offer unmatched charm, they often come with high maintenance and repair costs. As homes age, the materials and systems that once served them well may no longer be functional. You might encounter issues like foundation problems, outdated plumbing, and electrical systems that were installed over 100 years ago. To properly maintain these homes, you'll often need to hire specialized craftsmen who have the knowledge and skill to work on older homes—this can be both time-consuming and costly.

 

 

Modern living has vastly different needs than what was common when many historic homes were built. For example, many of these homes were not designed with the electrical demands we have today. You may find that there are few electrical outlets throughout the home, and outdated wiring can be a serious concern. While charming push-button lights may still work, they likely won't meet the needs of modern electrical appliances. In addition, heating systems in older homes may not be up to the task of keeping your home comfortable, especially if you have central air and heating needs.

 

Another common challenge in historic homes is small closets. Many homes built before the mid-20th century had minimal closet space, as storing clothing was less of a concern back then. Modern buyers often need to get creative with closet solutions or even consider renovations to improve storage capacity.

 

 

One of the more daunting aspects of owning a historic home is the restrictions on modifications and renovations. In Long Beach, and many other cities with historic districts, exterior alterations are highly regulated to preserve the integrity of the neighborhood's appearance. Any changes you want to make to the exterior of your home may require approval from the local historic preservation committee or city officials.

 

For example, until recently, solar panels were not allowed to be added to historic homes due to concerns over altering the visual continuity of the neighborhood. Fortunately, that has changed, and solar panels are now allowed, but other modifications may still require lengthy approval processes. If you plan to make significant changes to the exterior of the home, it’s important to understand these restrictions before purchasing.

 

 

Restoring a historic home is not for everyone. It can be a huge financial commitment and may require significant time and effort to complete the work. If you’re the type of person who loves taking on a project, a historic home could be the perfect opportunity, but if you're not ready for such an undertaking, you might want to look for homes that have already been restored.

 

Some historic homes have already undergone extensive renovations and may offer a good balance of charm and modern convenience. But if you're willing to take on the challenge of restoring a historic home from scratch, there are often great deals to be had. You just need to make sure you have the resources and patience to handle the process.

 

Buying a historic home can be an incredible experience, offering unique features and a sense of community connection. However, it’s not without its challenges. If you’re ready to take on the responsibility of restoration, maintaining the charm of a historic property can be highly rewarding. But if you’re not prepared for the maintenance and possible renovations, a historic home might not be the right choice.

 

Kelly is a full time Senior Real Estate + Relocation Specialist.

She + her dog GG live in Long Beach, California.