Buying a home in one of Detroit’s historic districts means becoming part of the city’s unique architectural and cultural story. Historic districts protect neighborhood character and ensure that homes are preserved for future generations. If you’re considering purchasing in a historic district, it’s important to understand the process, requirements, and resources available to you.
Preservation of Character: Exterior changes must be reviewed and approved to ensure they reflect the neighborhood’s historic integrity.
Maintained Value: Homes in historic districts often benefit from stronger long-term property values because of the protections in place.
Community Pride: Living in a historic district means being part of a community dedicated to stewardship and preservation.
It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify whether a home is located in a designated district. The following resources can help you confirm district status:
Interactive Historic District Map – Enter the property address to see if it falls within a district.
List of Detroit Historic Districts – A complete directory of all designated districts.
Contact the Detroit Historic District Commission (HDC) – For direct confirmation or questions about a specific property.
The HDC reviews and regulates exterior changes to properties in historic districts.
Application Required: Projects such as roofing, windows, painting, siding, porches, and additions require HDC approval before work begins.
Types of Review: Minor work may be approved by staff; major projects are reviewed by the full commission.
Certificate of Appropriateness: If approved, the project receives this certificate, which is required to proceed.
Submit Application – Include drawings, photos, and a description of the proposed work.
Staff or Commission Review – Depending on the scope, the application is reviewed administratively or at a public meeting.
Receive Decision – The HDC issues approval, conditional approval, or denial.
Before purchasing, buyers should confirm whether a property has outstanding violations.
Search for HDC Violations by Address – Use this online tool to see if violations have been recorded.
Always Verify with Staff: Even if you use the online database, buyers should contact HDC staff directly to confirm whether violations exist and understand what they mean.
Buyer Responsibility: If violations are present, the new owner may be required to correct them after purchase. This could include restoring unapproved alterations or completing repairs.
While it is ultimately the buyer’s responsibility to confirm district status and violations, working with a Realtor who lives in a historic district and has experience with these neighborhoods provides an added advantage.
Practical Insight: First-hand knowledge of what it means to own and maintain a historic home.
Guidance on Process: Help navigating the approval process and understanding the steps involved.
Neighborhood Expertise: Understanding the character, history, and value trends of Detroit’s historic districts.
At City Living Detroit, we have the local expertise and personal experience to help you make a confident and informed decision when purchasing in a historic district.
This page is provided as a resource for homebuyers interested in Detroit’s historic districts. All information should be independently verified with the Detroit Historic District Commission. Requirements, processes, and regulations are subject to change, and buyers are responsible for confirming the current status of any property.
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