How to Sell a Historic Home in Richmond’s Fan District
How do you sell a historic home in Richmond’s Fan District?
To sell a historic home in the Fan District of Richmond, VA, you’ll need to highlight its character and heritage, ensure its condition meets buyer expectations, and partner with an experienced local agent like Jared Stiegelmeyer of The Hogan Group who knows the neighborhood and market inside-out.
Introduction
Selling any home takes planning—but when your property is historic, especially in a landmark neighborhood like the Fan District, you face unique opportunities and challenges. This neighborhood is known for its architectural charm, strong buyer interest in period homes, and nuances in pricing and marketing. In this guide you’ll learn: how to position your home, key condition must-haves, marketing strategies tailored to historic homes, and how Jared Stiegelmeyer and The Hogan Group bring local expertise to help you succeed.
1. Know the Fan District Market
Before you list, you must understand who’s buying, what they expect, and how historic homes are performing in the Fan District.
The Fan is designated a historic district. Wikipedia
Median listing price in the neighborhood is approximately $640K–$650K, with about $320-$340 per sq ft. Realtor+1
Recent data shows homes in the Fan sell in roughly 28–35 days, indicating buyer interest remains strong. Redfin+1
Being historic adds cachet, but buyers of older homes also expect character and condition.
This means when you sell your historic home with The Hogan Group and Jared Stiegelmeyer, you’re working with someone who understands both the premium features and the practical expectations of buyers in this neighborhood.
2. Preserve and Showcase Historic Character
Your home’s historic charm is a major asset—but only if you frame it correctly.
Highlight Architectural Features
Emphasize original millwork, high ceilings, hardwood floors, period fireplaces, stained glass or bay windows.
Create a narrative: “Built in 1898, this Victorian-era home in the Fan District retains its original… ”
Include high-quality photos of these features in your listing.
Balance Authenticity with Modern Comfort
Buyers appreciate authenticity—but they also want modern functionality. Consider:
Upgrades to kitchen or baths that respect the original style (e.g., period appropriate lighting).
Updated mechanicals (HVAC, electrical, plumbing) that are invisible but reassuring.
Maintained exterior (roof, windows, gutters) so the historic shell shines rather than showing neglect.
Address Maintenance Proactively
Historic homes may require more maintenance. Prioritize major repairs before listing if possible (roof, structural issues, termite/pest).
Document what’s been updated and how. Buyers will ask.
When working with Jared Stiegelmeyer, you’ll benefit from guidance on which historic-home fixes are most important in the Fan District market.
3. Pricing Strategy for Historic Fan District Homes
Historic listings need special pricing attention, especially when comparing to newer homes in the region.
Use Market Comparables Within the Fan
Pull comparable closed sales within the Fan District of similar vintage, condition and size.
Adjust if your home has unique historic features (e.g., intact original woodwork) or necessary updates.
Factor In Premiums and Discounts
A well-restored historic home may command a premium because of character and neighborhood cachet.
A home needing extensive modernization may sell at a discount compared to move-in condition properties.
Consider Days on Market & Buyer Type
Historic homes may attract buyers who appreciate character—and they may take longer to decide.
Pricing too high expecting “historic premiums” can lead to longer sits and potentially price reductions.
Jared Stiegelmeyer and his team will help you model pricing scenarios, track recent historic home sale data in the Fan District, and set realistic expectations for time on market and net proceeds.
4. Marketing Your Historic Home Correctly
Marketing a historic home in the Fan requires a bespoke approach.
Tell a Story
Create listing copy and imagery that emphasizes the home’s history, notable architectural aspects, location near Monroe Park, Carytown, or VCU, and the neighborhood’s walkability.
Use historical photography or archival references (if available) to add depth and authenticity.
Show Lifestyle & Location Benefits
Buyers often choose Fan District homes for their walkable neighborhoods, local amenities, and unique architecture. Highlight proximity to cafés, restaurants, museums, and green spaces.
Use staging that complements the historic style—don’t overturn the character with ultra-modern décor. Let the architectural features shine.
High-Quality Visuals
Use professional photography and possibly drone shots to showcase neighborhood context, tree-lined streets, and unique exterior features.
Virtual tour or video walkthrough can help reach out-of-town buyers fascinated by historic homes.
Target the Right Buyer Pool
Historic-home buyers may value preservation and character over brand-new finishes. Lead with historic appeal and highlight modernization elements.
Use online marketing, social media, and historic-home-focused advertising to reach niche buyers.
5. Special Considerations for Historic Homes in Richmond
Selling in a historic district like the Fan brings a few additional factors to account for.
Historic District Guidelines
Some renovations or exterior changes may require approval from local historic boards. Verify any permits or restrictions.
Provide documentation of any past authorized historic renovation work—it boosts credibility.
Inspection and Disclosure Transparency
Older homes often carry questions about wiring, plumbing, lead paint, insulation, roofing. Be proactive in disclosures and reports.
For example, advise buyers about potential lead paint presence in pre-1978 homes and include proper disclosures.
Maintenance & Carrying Cost Awareness
If your home remained unoccupied or lightly used, carry-over cost (utility, pest control, inspection) may be higher. Accounting for this in your timeline and price helps avoid surprises.
Financing & Buyer Pool
Some buyers of historic homes may use specialty loans or appraisals for older homes. Understanding buyer financing constraints helps you price and market appropriately.
6. Working with Jared Stiegelmeyer & The Hogan Group
Choosing an agent with historic-home experience in the Fan District is crucial.
Jared brings local market insight into the Fan District, knowing past comparable sales, condition thresholds, and buyer expectations.
The Hogan Group provides full service: pricing, marketing, negotiation, and coordinating historic-home workflows.
Their process includes detailed condition review, neighborhood-specific marketing, and leveraging their Richmond network to reach the right buyers.
Engaging them early—for condition review, pricing strategy and marketing planning—gives you a head start.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Selling your historic home in Richmond’s Fan District offers a wonderful opportunity to capture value and appeal to buyers seeking character and location. But it requires strategic preparation, accurate pricing, thoughtful marketing and the right representation. With the expertise of Jared Stiegelmeyer of The Hogan Group, you’ll be well positioned to highlight your home’s unique heritage, connect with the right buyers, and navigate the specialized market of historic homes.
If you’re ready to list your home in the Fan District—or want a personalized consultation on condition, pricing or marketing—call (757) 376-7478 or visit jaredsellsrva.com to schedule your consultation.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, accounting or financial advice. Please consult licensed professionals for your specific situation.
