What should I know about selling a historic home in Bay St. Louis?
What should I know about selling a historic home in Bay St. Louis? To sell your home successfully, you need to understand preservation rules, highlight the property’s character, and market its lifestyle appeal with the help of a local expert like EXIT Realty Heart Properties.
Why historic homes matter in Bay St. Louis
Bay St. Louis is known for its charm, arts scene, and historic architecture. Many homes here date back to the early 1900s or even earlier, often featuring Creole cottages, Victorian details, and coastal design elements. Buyers are attracted to Bay St. Louis not just for the property itself but also for the lifestyle and history that comes with it. Selling a historic home means presenting it as more than square footage—it’s a piece of the community’s story.
Step 1: Understand preservation rules
In Bay St. Louis, some homes may be subject to historic preservation guidelines. These can affect what updates you can make to the exterior, windows, or roofing. Before listing:
Research whether your home is in a designated historic district.
Check with the city or county about renovation rules.
Consult with contractors experienced in working with historic properties.
Knowing these details upfront avoids surprises for you and potential buyers.
Step 2: Showcase original features
Historic homes often sell because of their character. Buyers love to see original hardwood floors, crown molding, fireplaces, and unique design touches. To make these features stand out:
Restore rather than replace original woodwork or tile.
Use staging to draw attention to architectural details.
Highlight stories or documentation about the home’s history.
EXIT Realty Heart Properties works with sellers to identify and emphasize these unique selling points.
Step 3: Balance updates with preservation
While character is important, modern buyers also expect functionality. You may need to update systems without losing historic charm:
Upgrade plumbing, electrical, and HVAC to meet current standards.
Consider modern kitchens or bathrooms that still blend with the home’s style.
Add energy-efficient features like insulation or storm windows if allowed.
This balance between old and new helps attract buyers who want both charm and convenience.
Step 4: Get a pre-listing inspection
Historic homes can sometimes hide maintenance issues, from foundation settling to outdated wiring. A pre-inspection:
Identifies potential repair concerns before buyers do.
Allows you to make fixes that increase buyer confidence.
Provides documentation to reassure out-of-state buyers.
Step 5: Market to the right audience
Not every buyer is looking for a historic home, but those who are will value it highly. EXIT Realty Heart Properties tailors marketing for historic listings by:
Using professional photography that captures character and detail.
Highlighting the home in lifestyle-driven campaigns showcasing Bay St. Louis’s arts and cultural scene.
Reaching out-of-state buyers seeking second homes with history and charm.
Step 6: Emphasize location and lifestyle
Buyers want to know what it means to live in Bay St. Louis beyond the house itself. Your marketing should connect the home to its community:
Proximity to Old Town shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Walking distance to the beach or marinas.
Access to events like Cruisin’ the Coast or Second Saturday Art Walk.
By linking your home to Bay St. Louis’s vibrant lifestyle, you make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves living there.
Step 7: Work with an experienced agent
Selling a historic home is more complex than selling a newer property. You’ll want an agent who:
Understands the Bay St. Louis real estate market.
Has experience with historic properties.
Knows how to price based on both condition and uniqueness.
Can connect with buyers locally and out of state.
EXIT Realty Heart Properties has helped many homeowners in Bay St. Louis navigate these exact challenges, combining market expertise with a strong appreciation for the area’s history.
Final Thoughts
Selling a historic home in Bay St. Louis requires a thoughtful approach that respects the property’s character while meeting modern buyer expectations. From understanding preservation rules to marketing the lifestyle that comes with historic living, every detail matters. EXIT Realty Heart Properties can guide you through the process and ensure your home attracts the right buyers.
Contact EXIT Realty Heart Properties today to create a personalized strategy for selling your historic Bay St. Louis home.
