How to Get Your Home on the Historic Registry

Do you have a historic home you think should be recognized and preserved? Getting your home on the National Register of Historic Places can be as simple as:

• Contacting Your State Historic Preservation Office

• Evaluating Your Home

• Fill Out & Submit Nomination Forms

Older homes are full of character and history that provide a unique living experience. If you own an older home or property that retains a lot of its original integrity, or know of something gives it historical significance, it may qualify to be included on the National Register of Historic Places.

What is the Historic Registry?

Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and managed by the National Park Services, the National Register of Historic Places is a national program that works with public and private efforts to find and protect America’s historic homes, properties and places. It includes benefits like the pride in owning a piece of history and the ability to qualify for special grants and tax credits.

Let’s Get Your Home on the Historic Registry

To begin the process of getting your home on the registry, you will first reach out to your State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to find the correct information and forms for your state. Your property must then meet the National Register Criteria for Evaluation. This includes examining the property’s age (usually at least 50 years old), significance and integrity.

Once you’ve determined if your property meets the criteria, you can submit a form for nomination. These are submitted to your SHPO, who will then notify local governments and ask for public comment on the significance of the property. Once all of the information is gathered, your property’s nomination will then be reviewed by your state's historic preservation office as well as their National Register Review Board.

What’s Next for Your Historic Home?

If your property gets approved, you’ll receive formal recognition of its historical significance. Your property will be added to the National Register Archives and you’ll have the opportunity to get a bronze plaque that distinguishes your property.

The Registry also encourages preservation by providing federal grants and tax credits to help with planning and rehabilitation. You can also qualify for state tax benefits and grant opportunities to further help manage and maintain your historical property.

Once your property has been listed, you can network with other historic owners, start to enjoy the pride and the perks of owning a historic property and be a part of a nationwide community.

*If your property is on Federal or Tribal Land there are a few extra steps. For Federal Land you will need to contact a Federal Preservation Officer and for Tribal Land you will need to contact a Tribal Preservation Officer.

Are you in the market for a historic home or need help selling your current home? Contact one of our historic property experts to get started. Visit www.UnitedCountry.com to learn more.

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