Historic homes aren’t simply bricks and mortar – they have a fascinating heritage with a real story to tell behind the scenes. Whether it’s a Victorian terrace, a Tudor cottage, a Georgian townhouse or a Gothic Revival mansion, historic and period properties are a much-loved part of the home staging and selling landscape.
With a wealth of ever-evolving architectural styles, the UK’s property market has a variety of stunning homes that would-be buyers are fascinated by the thought of living in.
Whatever your reasons for selling a historic home, it’s vital to understand and respect a building’s past in the search for the next owners who will keep its history intact for future generations.
Here is our guide to preparing your period property to look its best before history buffs start clamouring to live there:
Professionally stage your home and use professional photography
Whether you’re looking for a simple declutter or a full furnishing and decorating project, professional staging is a valuable marketing tool that can be the best investment a home-owner will ever make.
Staging creates a home that appeals to the most potential buyers in your target demographic, using techniques to improve a property’s appeal by emphasising the fabulous lifestyle buyers can expect when they move in. My ADDRESS method – assess, declutter, decorate, re-imagine, emphasise, stage, sell – is a proven tactic to get the presentation right.
Using skilled photography to showcase the property’s assets and appeal, home staging can increase the selling price and the likelihood that it will sell quickly. First impressions are vital when viewing properties – staging services ensure that potential buyers see your home in the best possible light.
On average, properties staged by Lemon and Lime are 18% more likely to achieve a sale price above the asking price, five times more likely to secure the full asking price, and seven times less likely to sell below the asking price (Lemon and Lime Interiors Long-term Staging Data Report, 2025).
Market to the right audience
Not everyone wants to live in an historic property but for those potential buyers who do, your passion for your home’s history should really shine through. Do your research (which you have probably already done) and share interesting snippets about the property’s past.
Ideal buyers could include people with a love for unique homes, downsizers looking for charm and character, history enthusiasts or couples wanting to raise a family in a property with a difference.
And where people may be daunted by the future upkeep of a period property, particularly if it is of significant historical interest, such as Grade II listed, try to reassure them by spelling out any previous work that has been carried out and how much you have cared for your home and enjoyed living there.
Understand and highlight the historic significance of the property
Don’t try to explain away your property’s quirks such as uneven floors or walls – it was built in the 17th century, for example, after all. Make a virtue of what some may see as defects and be proud to point out they add to the property’s character and charm.
In the case of Grade I, II or II listed*, explain what this means and that potential changes, inside and out, may need listed building consent. Note any upgrades that have been carried out at the property, such as updated plumbing, electrics, new roofing or extensions.
Presenting your period property to buyers
Your historic home’s exterior already has the wow factor – now help potential buyers to visualise its interior potential. We have carried out scores of home staging projects in incredible buildings including a manor house with an unused tower that we dressed beautifully, an historic farmhouse with stunning wooden beams and a handsome three-storey Grade II listed country residence.
In the latter case, the owners were looking to downsize from this lovely property. Our staging cost amounted to 0.19% of the property’s guide price and resulted in a swift and satisfactory outcome, with an offer just under the guide price in just two months.
See more of our transformed homes here.
Choose the right estate agents
Not all estate agents have experience of dealing with historic properties – do your research to find professionals who understand the specific challenges and opportunities they present. Check their website listings to see the types of property they deal with, contact them to ask if they have the relevant experience and understanding and read online reviews and testimonials.
Picking the right price for your property
Choosing the right price for your period property can be tricky as each will have its own distinct attributes. With the help of an estate agency experienced in the historical property field, you should do careful research to gain an understanding of the building’s significance and condition – and consider any potential restrictions that might affect the cost. Properties needing repairs and ongoing maintenance may stay on the market for longer. Also check out the property prices in the area to assess the market conditions.
According to Historic England, more than 15,000 listed buildings in England are at risk or vulnerable to neglect and decay. But, as it points out, these types of buildings offer potential for redevelopment and reinvigoration and can be acquired more cheaply than other properties.
Contact us for help and advice when selling your historic home
Historic buildings are a vital part of our nation’s heritage and choosing to invest in such a property demonstrates a commitment to upholding these treasures and the stories within them.
If it’s – reluctantly – time to sell, let us use our skills to stage your period property to highlight its potential and help buyers to visualise their future living there, while conserving its history for generations to come.
