Philadelphia has one of the largest collections of historic buildings in the country, and many of them sit in local historic districts: parts of Old City, Society Hill, Queen Village, Rittenhouse, Spring Garden, Girard Estate, Chestnut Hill, and more, plus individually designated buildings throughout the city.
If the house you're buying is on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, exterior changes need extra steps. That doesn't rule out a renovation loan. It does mean planning.
What historic designation affects
The Philadelphia Historical Commission reviews exterior work on designated properties, such as:
- Windows and doors on visible facades
- Cornices, trim, and masonry
- Roofing materials visible from the street
- Additions and roof decks visible from the public right-of-way
- Demolition
Interior renovations generally don't require Historical Commission review, but they still need L&I permits.
How it affects a renovation loan
- Scope. Your contractor should price historically appropriate materials where review is required. For example, wood windows may be required instead of vinyl on a front facade.
- Budget. Appropriate materials can cost more. Build it in from the start.
- Timeline. Commission review adds time before permits can be issued. Your renovation loan's completion deadline starts at closing, so start the review early. Many buyers have their contractor or architect begin the application during the loan process.
Program fit
For historic homes with larger budgets, HomeStyle and CHOICERenovation offer higher limits and more flexibility on finishes. The Standard 203k works well when structural or systems work is the priority.
Before you write the offer
Check the property's designation, then talk to your contractor about what exterior work you want. If the scope depends on approval, like a new roof deck or rear addition, build the approval time into your plan.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a house is in a historic district?
The Philadelphia Historical Commission maintains the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, which includes individually listed properties and historic districts. The City's online property tools show whether an address is designated.
Does historic designation affect interior renovations?
Generally, the Historical Commission's jurisdiction covers exterior work visible from the public right-of-way. Interior renovations typically don't require its review, but they still need L&I permits.