Virginia Historic Register, Explained

Pleasant Confused about the various historic designations that many homes have and how they may impact you if you should purchase one? You’re not alone! There are several different designations and most people believe all these designations come with many restrictions. This is not true.
A home listed with the National Register of Historic Places, National Historic Landmarks Program or the Virginia Landmarks Register does not have any restrictions. An owner can alter the appearance of the property and even destroy the home. These three designations are to show recognition of the historic nature of the property only.

Local historic preservation ordinances may place restrictions on historic properties though. They often prohibit changes to the exterior of a property and do not allow for demolition of the property. Be sure to verify if there are any local ordinances that place restrictions on a property that you are considering purchasing.

If a previous owner has donated a Historic Preservation Easement on the property, has received federal or state tax credits, or has accepted any type of rehabilitation grant, there may be restrictions that have been placed on the property as well.

We are often asked if there are any programs to assist with the rehabilitation of old/historic homes. On the federal level, there are tax credits available for income-producing properties only. Residential properties are not eligible for these tax credits.

If a Virginia Historic Preservation Easement has not already been placed on the home, then once the home is accepted into Virginia Landmarks Register, it can become eligible for the Historic Preservation Easement. This transfers some of the rights of ownership to a third party which oversees the historic features. This easement is in perpetuity and runs with the land. A portion of the easement may be claimed as a tax credit.
For more information visit:
The National Register of Historic Places & Virginia Landmarks Register.

Virginia Historic Register, Explained

All information in this newsletter is deemed accurate but not guaranteed.

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