Long Island is not all oceanfront new construction and modern mansions—tucked between the stunning coast and bustling suburbs are older houses with personality, craftsmanship, and, yes, a few surprises. Purchasing and refurbishing one of these houses is not all about aesthetics; it's about preserving part of Long Island's heritage and embracing all the idiosyncracies and challenges that accompany it.

The beauty of Historic Homes on Long Island

From 18th-century colonials to Gatsby-esque mansions, Long Island is where the most architecturally noteworthy homes in all of New York can be found. Oyster Bay, Sag Harbor, and Garden City are just a few neighborhoods where homes have been around centuries, with nuances that you just can't find in new construction—hand-carved woodwork, stained glass, and fireplaces with stories to share. But with the charm comes the reality: historic homes are accompanied by commitment, patience, and typically deep pockets.

Challenges and Benefits of Restoring an Old House

The Good: Timeless Beauty and Character

Historic homes, as opposed to cookie-cut new buildings, are one-of-a-kind. Every molding, every staircase, every door is rich in history. If you like houses with personality, rehabbing an old house allows you to restore old-world charm and personalize it.

The Bad: Regulations and Costs

You can't simply put a new roof and be done with it. Historic homes are under preservation regulations, so you'll have to get permission first to do extensive work. And on top of that, there's the cost of finding materials suitable to the time period, and restoration is a costly labor of love.

The Secret Delights: What Lies Beneath

Old houses = old problems. Old plumbing, original wiring, and hidden structural issues can transform a simple renovation into an archaeological dig. Old houses have surprises in store—some wonderful, some expensive, and a few that will have you questioning why you ever became an adult.

Becoming a Long Island Homeowner: Navigating Historic Preservation

Know Historic District Ordinances

There are strict preservation regulations in most Long Island communities, especially Sag Harbor and Cold Spring Harbor. Call the local historic society first to prevent legal issues and penalties if you are considering renovations.

Choose the Right Contractors

Not every contractor is appropriate to work on old houses. You will want to have individuals with experience with period materials, traditional techniques, and, if possible, a fondness for old houses. Your restoration process can be made or broken by the right team.

Budgeting for the Unforeseen

It's never a paint job to renovate an old home. Set yourself up to expect the unexpected—whether it's rewiring a whole home, fixing a 100-year-old foundation, or dealing with original wood beams that need to be shored up. There has to be an adequate financial cushion.

Keep the Character, Update the Essentials

You don't have to live as if it is 1850. Modernizing without sacrificing historic integrity is the key. Replacing HVAC, plumbing, and insulation can make your house more comfortable and energy-efficient without sacrificing its charm.

The Long Island Historic Home Market

Purchasers want homes with personality, and there is more demand for older homes. Some are ready to be moved into, but others will require extensive work and are cheaper to buy initially. The price varies where you are—mansions in the Gold Coast are in the millions, but there are cheaper historic homes to be found in neighborhoods like Setauket or Roslyn.

Final Considerations: Is an Historic House Suitable for You? Living in a historic house on Long Island is an adventure, one that is full of beauty, challenges, and great pride. If you are prepared to undertake it, you will be presented with a house that is one of a kind. Looking for your perfect historic property? **Dean Miller** is a specialist in Long Island real estate, ranging from centuries-old colonial homes to legendary estates. Are you prepared to own a piece of the past? We will find your perfect historic house.