Character Properties for sale: Needs renovation

The term originated in the United Kingdom and is occasionally used for historic properties for sale. There, they are mostly rural properties in which particularly individual qualities such as history, cultural value, but also personality and emotion play a foreground role. This sets them apart from ordinary and often purely functional residential properties and gives them their uniqueness. Character properties emphasizes the special appeal of such properties and addresses prospective buyers who are looking for historic or architecturally interesting houses for sale.

Absolutely. While real estate jargon lacks standard definitions for many terms, character properties generally do not refer to properties that are recent. New buildings are exceptions if parts of them have a historical connection, for example by integrating historical structures. Otherwise, they are historic buildings that were constructed before 1945 and often predate the Modernist era, with the exception of Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

Character properties can undoubtedly also have luxurious features and be classified as luxury properties. This is especially true for large, fully restored castles or historic villas in prime locations, which are often marketed as luxury or prestige properties.

The main difference lies in a special value in terms of history, authenticity and emotional significance. In contrast, luxury real estate focuses on contemporary luxury and comfort. This may also involve modern apartments or new buildings.

Character properties may be in need of renovation or restoration, and they often become what they are today through the passion and dedication of their owners over many years. Preserving their historic charm combined with modern luxury can present an additional challenge when these are landmark buildings that may be subject to certain regulations and restrictions.

Primarily, these are residential properties which, due to their characteristics, are often also used for tourist or commercial purposes. Even ruins can be described as character properties, especially if they represent cultural monuments or have a special historical value. As with other real estate, prices for these properties vary depending on a number of factors such as demand, location and condition.

Castles and manor houses are certainly the best known examples of character properties. For those who do not see themselves as lords or ladies of castles and would rather live in harmony with contemporary lifestyle in smaller dimensions, there is a diverse selection of other properties, including exotic properties such as historic towers or converted church buildings. Find the overview below of the most common categories. More detailed information on each property type is available on the corresponding listing results pages.