Historic Homes in Winston-Salem: What to Know

The “big idea”

Buying a historic home in Winston-Salem can be magical… and it can also come with rules and extra homework. The key is knowing what kind of “historic” you’re dealing with before you fall in love with the porch.

1) “Historic” can mean different things (and it matters)

A) Local Historic District / Historic Overlay District

If a home is inside a local historic district (or an overlay district), exterior changes are reviewed by the local preservation commission—this is where the rules usually show up. Winston-Salem/Forsyth County uses Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) for certain work. Winston Salem Historic Districts

B) National Register Historic District

This is a federal “recognition” list. It can be meaningful for prestige and sometimes incentives, but it’s not the same thing as local design review. (Always confirm what applies to the specific property.)

C) Local Historic Landmark

Some individual properties are designated landmarks and can have additional requirements.

Simple takeaway: Don’t guess. Verify the address first.

2) Old Salem + other historic areas people ask about

Old Salem is one of the best-known historic areas in Winston-Salem, tied to Moravian settlement and preservation efforts. Old Salem

Winston-Salem also has local historic and historic overlay districts, including the West End overlay (one of the first). City of Winston Salem

3) Renovations: what you can change (and what may need approval)

If the property is in a local historic district/overlay, you may need a COA (Certificate of Appropriateness) before certain exterior changes. The city has a dedicated COA process and guidance. City of Winston Salem

Examples that often trigger review (varies by district):

• exterior windows/doors

• siding/material changes

• roof changes visible from the street

• additions, porches, decks

• fences, landscaping features, hardscapes

• demolition

Operator tip: Before you write an offer, decide: “Are we the type of buyer who needs freedom to change things?” If yes, we verify restrictions early.

4) The “historic home inspection” mindset

Historic homes can be solid—just built differently. Plan for a deeper look at:

• foundation/crawlspace moisture and drainage

• older wiring (safety + capacity)

• plumbing supply and sewer lines

• roof + flashing

• windows (repair vs replace rules if in a district)

• lead-based paint risk (common in older homes)

• HVAC sizing/ductwork in older layouts

• insulation/air sealing (comfort + energy bills)

5) Possible tax credits/incentives (worth asking about)

North Carolina has information on a 15% state tax credit for qualified rehabilitation of certain owner-occupied historic properties (eligibility details matter). hpo.nc.gov
There’s also a 20% federal historic tax credit commonly associated with certified rehabilitations of income-producing historic properties (rules apply). NCSHPO

Important: Incentives depend on property designation + how it’s used + the scope of work. Always confirm with a qualified tax pro and the relevant program office.

6) What to ask before you commit (copy/paste checklist)

Before you offer:

• Is the home in a local historic district/overlay, a National Register district, or neither? City of Winston-Salem

• If it’s local/overlay: what work needs a COA? City of Winston Salem

• What’s your “must-change” list (windows, kitchen layout, adding a bath, fencing, etc.)—and are those changes realistic under the rules?

During due diligence:

• Get an inspector who’s comfortable with older homes

• Ask for a repair/upgrade budget line item (historic homes can surprise you)

• If renovations are planned, ask about COA timing and application requirements. City of Winston Salem

7) Bottom line

A historic home can be the best kind of home—as long as you buy it with eyes wide open: verify designation, understand the COA process if applicable, and budget for “old-house realities.”

Want me to help you do a quick “historic home reality check” before you fall in love?
I can:

• confirm what type of historic designation applies (if any), and

• send you 3 historic-style homes that fit your budget and lifestyle. 🙂