Does the charm of living in a home with hardwood floors and a wrap around porch appeal to you? What about a relaxed lifestyle with friendly neighbors? Then a heritage home in Georgia may be your ideal property. However, there are important considerations to keep in mind. Because this is not like purchasing a new build. Here, learn 4 tips for buying a heritage home.
What Is a Heritage Home?
First, let’s get clear about what a heritage home is. These are properties with architectural significance, historical roots, or cultural importance to the community or region. They may or may not be listed with the National Register of Historical Places. Read our article What is a Heritage Home for a full explanation.
Where to Find Heritage Homes in Georgia
Thanks to the rich history of Coastal Georgia, there are many heritage homes throughout the region. And this is more than plantation estates or the homes of early settlers to America. There are also properties reflecting the deep roots of Gullah-Geechee and Cherokee history in the area. Here are some examples of where to find heritage homes:
- Sea Island, GA
- Daufuskie Island, SC
- Sapelo Island, GA
- Savannah, GA
Learn more about these communities in this post.
What Buyers Should Consider
It’s important to understand that buying a heritage home isn’t like buying a new build. There are important considerations to keep in mind, some of which may surprise you. When buying a heritage home in Georgia, there are a number of factors to consider. The top 4 tips are:
1. Understand Restoration Guidelines
Many heritage homes fall under historic district regulations. Any renovation or repair may need approval from local preservation boards. For example, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs has Historical Preservation Ordinances which are designed to protect the character and history of heritage properties. This means that any change, alteration, or upgrade must be submitted in detail for review. So don’t go ahead and install solar panels or even upgrade the windows without completing the proper paperwork.
2. Research Insurance Options
Insuring an older home can come with unique challenges, especially in coastal zones. And though house insurance is not mandatory in Georgia, lenders and mortgage providers tend to require it. After all, house insurance provides valuable protection for your belongings, as well as for your home. It’s important to work with an agent who understands the special requirements of insuring heritage properties.
3. Beware of Limited Access and Infrastructure
Many heritage homes in Coastal Georgia are located on islands. And certainly, island living is a dream for many who seek peace and isolation. However, the reality of being on an island can mean limited access to services. For example, Daufuskie Island and Sapelo Island can only be accessed by boat or passenger ferry. This makes construction and maintenance more challenging and costly. It also can impact the time for resale.
4. Accept Ongoing Maintenance
Owning a historic home is a commitment to preservation. These properties often feature bespoke materials and craftsmanship that are difficult (if not impossible) to replicate today.
I can personally share my experience here. Because over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of buying, restoring, and selling historic homes. Each project has been a true labor of love, filled with pride and purpose. But eventually, the ongoing maintenance can begin to outweigh the romance, and the time comes to pass the torch, offering someone else the opportunity to steward a piece of history.
Why It’s Worth It
Heritage homes offer more than aesthetics. They connect us to place and time. In many cases, they appreciate in value because of their rarity. For owners, there’s pride in being a steward of the past. For communities, these homes anchor the culture and identity of a region.
There may also be financial incentives. Some heritage properties qualify for historic tax credits or grant funding for restoration projects. Your real estate agent can help identify any available programs.
Buying a Heritage Home with Golf Club Realty
The real estate professionals at Golf Club Realty understand the nuance of buying or selling historic and culturally significant homes. We know which properties are quietly available, who the most qualified buyers are, and how to navigate everything from private island access to preservation requirements. Our concierge-style approach means we connect you with the right inspectors, contractors, and preservation experts every step of the way.
If you’re considering buying or selling a heritage home in Sea Island, Sapelo, or Savannah, our team is here to guide you. These are not everyday transactions, they are investments in something greater. Contact our team today.