Before & After? ~ Actually, Not a Before & After.
I recently spotted these nearly identical houses in Las Vegas, New Mexico. They illustrate nicely how a beautiful house that has been neglected can appear to be a questionable investment to those who can’t look past peeling paint and an overgrown lawn.
These houses are located on the same block in a neighborhood of mostly restored and/or well-maintained historic homes. According to current tax records, there is a 30% difference in the assessed value of the houses. The relatively new roof on the neglected house indicates a reasonable hope that the interior hasn’t been damaged by water infiltration. Assuming an interior that isn’t a wreck, this all suggests that the neglected house could quickly gain a good deal of equity without a ton of work.
Learning to see the potential in a house that hasn’t been maintained well is one of the many things covered in “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.” Several chapters are focused on how to assess and analyze the opportunities and challenges a particular house presents. Subsequent chapters look at foundations, structural issues, mechanical systems, energy efficiency, exterior and interior finishes, doors and windows, etc.
Signed and personalized copies of the award-winning and bestselling 700-page hardcover book are available from the author in our shop at YourHistoricHouse.com/shop/.
It is the perfect holiday gift for the old house lover on your list!
Our shop also carries select preservation and restoration titles by other authors. Save with our multi-book combo packs!
“Restoring Your Historic House is also available in bookstores nationwide and from online retailers.
© Scott T. Hanson 2025.
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