Owning a historic home isn’t just about enjoying the charm and history of your property—it can also come with significant financial perks! Whether you’re considering buying a historic home or you already own one, there are Federal Historic Tax Credits and other financial incentives that can help make maintaining and restoring your property more affordable. Let’s explore the tax benefits of owning a historic home in NYC and how you can save money while preserving its unique character.

How Federal Historic Tax Credits Can Help You Save on Historic Home Restoration

One of the most substantial financial benefits of owning a historic property is the Federal Historic Tax Credit (HTC). This program offers a tax credit of up to 20% of qualified renovation costs for income-producing historic properties. If you own a historic building that you rent out or use for business purposes, this credit can significantly offset your restoration expenses.

For example, if you spend $100,000 on qualifying renovations, you could receive $20,000 back in tax credits. This can make a huge difference when tackling the often high costs associated with maintaining a historic property.

State and Local Tax Incentives for Historic Homes in NYC

In addition to federal credits, New York State offers its own historic tax credits that can be combined with federal credits, allowing for even more savings. In many cases, this can add up to an additional 20-25% of the renovation costs. Some cities and counties also offer property tax reductions or exemptions for homes located in designated historic districts, further easing the financial burden of maintaining these unique properties.

How Property Tax Abatement Programs Help NYC Historic Homeowners

Many cities, including NYC, offer property tax abatement programs specifically for historic homes. These programs can freeze or reduce your property taxes for a set period, which is particularly helpful during major restoration or renovation projects. Property tax abatements are designed to encourage the preservation of historic homes by making it more financially viable for homeowners to maintain and restore their properties.

How Charitable Easements on Historic Properties Can Save You Money

If you own a historic property, you may also be able to take advantage of charitable easements. By donating a historic preservation easement to a nonprofit organization, you can receive a tax deduction based on the value of the easement. This approach allows you to protect the historic character of your home while benefiting from tax savings at the same time.

How to Qualify for Federal Historic Tax Credits

The Federal Historic Tax Credit is one of the most significant benefits available for income-producing properties, but it comes with specific requirements. To qualify, your property must meet the following criteria:

• The building must be historic: It should be listed on the National Register of Historic Places or located in a certified historic district.

• Renovations must follow strict guidelines: The National Park Service oversees the program to ensure that the rehabilitation preserves the historical integrity of the building. This includes using historically accurate materials, repairing original windows, and preserving architectural details.

• The property must generate income: This tax credit applies to rental properties, businesses, or commercial buildings. Private homes do not qualify unless part of the property is rented out.

How Much Can You Save with Federal and State Tax Credits?

The savings from tax credits can be substantial. Between federal tax credits (up to 20%) and state-level credits (which can range from 20-25%), you could recoup nearly half of your renovation costs. For instance, if you plan to spend $200,000 on restoring a historic building that you rent out, you could receive up to $80,000 or more in tax credits, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket expenses.

Financial Considerations of Owning a Historic Home in NYC

While the tax benefits of owning a historic home are impressive, it’s important to consider the additional costs that come with maintaining these properties. Historic homes often require more expensive materials and specialized labor to preserve their original details, and there may be restrictions on the types of renovations you can make, particularly if your property is located in a historic district.

With careful planning and by taking full advantage of tax incentives, owning a historic home can be both financially and personally rewarding. The long-term value, appreciation, and charm of these properties make them a worthwhile investment for many buyers.

Final Thoughts: Are the Tax Benefits Worth It?

Absolutely! If you own a historic home or are thinking about buying one, the tax benefits can make a significant difference in offsetting the costs of restoration and maintenance. Programs like the Federal Historic Tax Credit, state incentives, and property tax abatements can help you preserve these architectural treasures while keeping your finances in check.

Be sure to consult with a tax professional or a historic preservation expert to make sure you’re maximizing the available credits and deductions. The process can be complex, but the savings are well worth the effort!

Thinking of buying a historic home in NYC? Contact us today for a Pre-Purchase Consultation to learn more about tax incentives and how to make the most of your investment. Book Discovery Call