Buying and Owning Historic Homes in Southern California
Owning a historic home is a unique experience that allows you to live in a piece of history. Southern California, particularly Los Angeles County and the South Bay, is home to many properties that reflect the architectural charm and cultural significance of past eras. Whether you’re curious about buying one or want to learn about the benefits and responsibilities, here’s everything you need to know about historic homes.
What Makes a Home Historic?
A home is considered historic if it has significant architectural, cultural, or historical value. This can include homes that:
Represent a specific architectural style (e.g., Craftsman, Spanish Colonial, Victorian)
Are associated with notable historical events or figures
Are located within designated historic districts
To be officially recognized as historic, a property may be listed on the National Register of Historic Places, California’s State Historical Landmarks list, or a local city register.
Where to Check if a Home is Historic
If you’re wondering whether a home qualifies as historic, here’s where to start:
Local City or County Offices: Contact the planning or preservation department to check their list of designated historic properties or districts.
Los Angeles Conservancy: A nonprofit offering resources on historic properties in LA County, including the South Bay.
California Office of Historic Preservation (OHP): They maintain a database of historic landmarks and provide guidance on Mills Act participation.
Local Historical Societies: Cities like Torrance, Redondo Beach, and Manhattan Beach often have historical societies that can provide detailed information.
Realtors Familiar with Historic Homes: Working with an agent experienced in historic properties can simplify the process of finding or researching them.
Historic Districts in the South Bay
The South Bay features several neighborhoods with historical significance, including:
Old Torrance: Known for its Craftsman bungalows and early 20th-century Mission Revival homes.
Redondo Beach’s Historic Areas: Streets like El Redondo Avenue showcase preserved coastal architecture.
Palos Verdes Estates: Features Spanish Revival homes dating back to the 1920s, with strict design codes still in place today.
Manhattan Beach Sand Section: Early beach cottages and preserved structures still dot the area among newer builds.
Can You Buy a Historic Home?
Yes, historic homes can be purchased just like any other property. However, it’s essential to understand the additional considerations:
Tax Benefits Through the Mills Act: The Mills Act offers property tax reductions—sometimes as much as 40-60%—for owners of qualified historic homes. In exchange, owners commit to preserving and maintaining the home’s historic features.
Restrictions on Alterations: If the home is designated as historic or located in a historic district, you may need approval from preservation boards to make changes. This ensures that the property’s character remains intact.
Rules and Responsibilities
Owning a historic home comes with unique responsibilities:
Preservation Requirements: Renovations or repairs often require approval to ensure historical accuracy. For example, replacing original wood windows with modern ones might not be allowed.
Maintenance Costs: Restoring period-appropriate details, like vintage tile or handcrafted woodwork, can be expensive but is often required to maintain the home’s status.
Ongoing Inspections: Some programs, like the Mills Act, may require regular inspections to ensure the home is being maintained properly.
Who to Contact for Questions About Rules, Regulations, and Tax Benefits
Navigating the rules and benefits of owning a historic home can be complex. Here’s who to reach out to for guidance:
City Planning Departments: For questions about local regulations, designations, and renovation approvals.
Historical Societies: They can provide information about the home’s history and preservation guidelines.
Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office: For details on property tax savings through programs like the Mills Act.
Preservation Consultants: These experts specialize in helping owners navigate historic homeownership requirements.
Your Realtor: An experienced agent familiar with historic homes can help you understand the responsibilities, locate resources, and connect with the right professionals.
Why Consider a Historic Home?
Historic homes offer more than just unique charm—they provide:
Architectural Character: Distinct craftsmanship and details that can’t be replicated in modern builds.
Tax Incentives: Programs like the Mills Act make historic homeownership more financially accessible.
A Connection to History: Living in a historic home means being part of a story that stretches back decades or even centuries.
Is a Historic Home Right for You?
Owning a historic home is a rewarding experience for those who value authenticity and are ready to embrace the responsibilities that come with preserving the past. If you’re considering a historic home in Los Angeles County or the South Bay, I’d be happy to help you explore your options and connect you with the right resources. Contact me at HERE or give me a call at (424)433-3747.
Best regards,
Lindsay Woolf | CA DRE #02236711
DOMO Real Estate | CA DRE #01290500
Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Real estate transactions can be complex and subject to local regulations.
