There's new construction all over Tyler and Longview, but some people don't want a recently built home. East Texas historic homes have a unique charm and appeal because they're one of a kind. Historic homes have been identified as "architecturally significant" by the National Register of Historic Places or East Texas local historic boards. Here's a sneak peek inside a few of them for those who love looking at what is unique and beautiful.

Why People Love Historic Homes

A historic home is old, and old homes typically need more maintenance and repair. They also often come with restrictions. Owners have to follow strict guidelines that govern what they can replace and update and what they must only restore. Even so, people fall in love with historic homes for the following reasons:

  • They have a one-of-a-kind allure and aesthetic beauty.
  • When properly cared for, they can be a good investment. Purchasing one is like buying a work of art.
  • Their architecture is time tested. Many were built before toxic building materials were even invented, and modern day homebuilders often don't provide the same craftsmanship and durability.
  • Owners can qualify for tax credits or reduced interest loans for costly maintenance and restoration.

When they walk through the front doors and wander through the rooms, prospective home buyers often imagine the lives of those who inhabited the space long ago. It can be a comforting thing to be surrounded by the ghosts of the past.

The Butler-Clyde Home in Tyler

Have you ever driven through Tyler's Azalea or Charnwood districts and wondered what it would be like to live in one of their many beautiful homes? The historic Butler-Clyde Home at 630 South Fannin listed for the first time since 1912, but it's no longer on the market.

Realtor.com says this home listed on January 30 and sold February 9 of this year, gone in just a few days.

You can't buy it, but you can still see photos on the Circa website. The Queen Anne style home was built in 1898 and has ornate columns on the wraparound veranda, stained glass windows, soaring chimneys for the three fireplaces and a charming gazebo.

Inside, the home has hand-painted wallpaper, an ornate chandelier and four living areas. The same family owned the home for more than 100 years. Imagine the history those walls have seen.

Historic Mineola Home Still For Sale

If you're wishing the Butler-Clyde Home didn't slip through your fingers, don't despair. The Lott House in Downtown Mineola is still available through Leslie Cain Realty. The residence was built in 1918 and is just as luxurious as the Butler-Clyde Home with an elevator, gas lantern chandeliers, and separate guest cottages.

Imagine sweeping down the two staircases to breakfast in the updated kitchen or luxuriating in the huge master tub while a fire burns in the antique wood stove. Check out photos of the historic home here.

1874 Victorian in Palestine

If you like to keep your baking kitchen separate from your gourmet kitchen, and you want the servants to have their own set of stairs so you don't encounter them on the grand staircase, check out this two story home in Palestine's historic district. See photos on the listing agent's website.

Home buyers purchase historic homes for their charm, beauty, durability and uniqueness. Whenever they become available in East Texas, the true gems don't last long.

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