Asked on Mar 26, 2014

Repairing an old farm house

Susan Kutzbach
by Susan Kutzbach
was wondering if anyone knew of a type of funding or grant that would help me repair my great-great grandparents centennial farm?
  5 answers
  • Redeemwood Redeemwood on Mar 27, 2014
    I only know Colorado but.... If it was here you could talk to the local historical society and they would see if the State would designate it as a historical site. When that happens here then funds and grants and low cost loans become available to restore it to its original condition (they are very strict about the original look and feel, but the heat, electrical plumbing etc. is brought up to current codes). They do this to preserve and protect our past. Maybe you should start by checking out any historical groups or State offices.
    • See 1 previous
    • Redeemwood Redeemwood on Mar 27, 2014
      @Susan Kutzbach Let us know if you have any success with funding!
  • Jeanette S Jeanette S on Mar 27, 2014
    If you do this project, be sure and post photos!
  • Susan Kutzbach Susan Kutzbach on Mar 27, 2014
    I will!! :)
  • Duv310660 Duv310660 on Mar 27, 2014
    I know from our California ranch house that designation does come with restrictions on what you can and cannot do - in other words, you may no longer be "the boss" on some aspects of your own home! Go into rennovations with your eyes wide, wide open.
    • See 2 previous
    • Sheila Conlon Sheila Conlon on Apr 10, 2014
      @Duva Yes as my sister is still working on our Centennial family homestead in Greeley CO, and is actually on the National Historical registry as well as the state : there are VERY strict restoration requirements, however they will have listing of Historical contractors in your area
  • Barbara Barbara on Apr 02, 2014
    I applaud you for wanting to restore vintage and historic homes!!!! So often we sell the land here in California because the real estate is worth so much. It's much more fun to invest in the past for the future of restored historic homes. The quality of workmanship and the attention to detail is much finer in historic structures. It can be frustrating, but well worth the time. Recently an old farm house was torn down not far from where we live and a huge 2 1/2 story 'modern' home was constructed. That entire area has lost it's charm - at least for me. Be sure to check other local 'abandoned' houses (with bank/owners permission of course) to look for vintage pieces that may work in your home and cost significantly less than 'reproductions'.