Older homes have a personality and charm that draws those who love a good story. Whether the wood trim is over one hundred years old or the staircase banister looks like a dozen kids have spent years sliding down it, each unique element draws you in. If you’re in the market for a home, you may be one of the many buyers who love an old house and all its eccentricities.
Favorite Vintage Features
Intricate artisanship and superior-quality materials are hallmarks of old houses. You probably have a favorite vintage feature that ties into a special memory from your childhood. Finding a home with the same elements reminds you of simpler times and connects on a deeper emotional level than more generic builds. The best features bring character and nostalgia to any space.
1. Bathrooms
A recent report by the National Association of Realtors revealed that younger millennials and Gen Z tend toward buying older homes. Whether they love the vintage charm or must take on a renovation to afford a house remains to be seen. For example, a 1920s bathroom might feature a pedestal sink, clawfoot tub, and black and white penny tiles in intricate patterns that catch the eye of potential buyers.
The ’50s and ’60s brought unusual color choices that buyers should be careful of embracing. An avocado-green bathtub may appear dated and be unappealing.
Homeowners should seek vintage touches when buying and selling a home, such as soft peach accessories or elements with a timeless and classic feel.
2. Kitchens
A kitchen with old appliances may warm your heart and remind you of Sunday dinners at your great-grandma’s house, but old equipment is not in keeping with a modern person’s needs. The kitchen becomes dated faster than almost any other room in a home. If you plan to sell your house, upgrading a few things can improve your home’s value and give you an excellent return on investment (ROI).
Start by repainting. Keep the vintage charm of the appliances by buying modern replicas. Another idea is to buy a piece or two for decor, such as an old ice box in the corner for aesthetics.
3. Living Rooms
Finding features that add to the yesteryear aesthetic may be a bit more difficult when it comes to living rooms. Consider adding wallpaper to an accent wall with a pattern reminiscent of the era you’d like to copy.
Seek a home with beautiful woodwork and transoms over the doors for a turn-of-the-20th-century appearance. For rooms used frequently, stick with comfort over vintage charm. However, if you have a sitting room or formal space, you can invest in a few antique furniture pieces to add to the decorating style.
4. Bedrooms
The bedroom is another place to add creative touches to give your home a vintage vibe. Perhaps you prefer a carefree and retro style like a boho theme. Add a small secretary desk from the early 1900s for an antique feel. Hang ‘80s posters on the walls that feature popular musicians like Rick Springfield and Madonna.
If you plan to show your home to potential buyers, you may want to scale back the accessories and go with inspired looks, such as a print on your comforter reminiscent of another time.
5. Entry and Exterior
Your house makes an impression from the first moment a visitor pulls up in front of it. Adding vintage lighting can set the tone before they walk through the front door. Seek paint colors for doors and shutters that hint at the other vintage touches throughout the home.
Earth tones never go out of style and are common traditional colors. Adding browns, greens and beiges can hint at coziness. Gray is another classic choice and pairs well with pops of red or blue. The style of your home may dictate which shades work best. When in doubt, consult with a design professional for ideas.
Blend Character and Comfort
Making the vintage elements in your home stand out requires a balance between modern features and old-world charm. When you’re ready to sell your house, you can retain the things you and the new owner will love but upgrade anything that isn’t functioning as intended or might trigger a problem on a home inspection. With a little effort, people who appreciate quality and personality will adore your old home.
