By 
As a show my clients homes for them to purchase, my goal is to find a home that meets many of their non-negotiables! Some people do not like older homes; they would much rather have the latest and greatest. I totally get it! I never ever thought I was going to be a Victorian homeowner… ever.
I thought I was going to be one of those “trendy” homeowners who live in a loft. But you know, these home features have something special about them. Maybe it’s because I saw them at my grandparents' homes. Maybe its because they are more rare and unique. Needless to say, when I see a home that has one of these features, my heart skips a beat.
My Favorite Features of Older Homes
- Phone Niche: This is where the landline, the home phone, used to stay.
- Laundry Chutes: What a fun way for clothes to make their way to the laundry room.
Dumbwaiter: This is a great way to move items to different levels of the home without having to go up and down the stairs. How convenient would this be for everyday living and entertaining? - Transom Windows: A beautiful way to let in natural light into your home, or to showcase a light fixture. Back in the day, transom windows used to open and close to allow air in the home.
- Ceiling Medallion: These were typically found on the ceiling to accent a chandelier.
- Functional Shutters: Whether interior or exterior, a functional shutter can add charm, privacy, and an alternate window covering as opposed to curtains and blinds.
- Glass Door Knobs and Vintage Hardware: it’s not just a doorknob! It’s a pretty sparkly vintage doorknob!
- Built-Ins: One less piece of furniture you have to worry about purchasing. Built-Ins instantly add charm to a home, can provide additional storage space, and allow you to add more décor to your home!
- Pocket Doors: These are great because they do not take as much space in your home, and you don’t have to look at the door all the time; unlike the modern barn door.
- Original Hardwood Floors: Need I say more?
- Embellished Windows: Although most likely not as energy-efficient, these windows have personality.
- Wainscoting: Originally used to protect the bottom half of the wall from dirt, shoe marks, etc, this has become a beautiful home element.
I know. I know. Some of you are thinking...
"It doesn't serve a purpose!" --or-- "It's too fussy!" --or-- "Reminds me of my grandparents!"--or--"But modern is better!"
These home features used to be common, but now are becoming rarer to find. When everyone is going with the new style or trend, you could be part of an important movement... which is revitalizing the past and making it even better.
Kelly Raulston
“Reliable and Ready” REALTOR® since 2016. I was born in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, but was raised in Texas since 1997. When I found out we were moving to Plano, Texas, I remember looking forward to riding a horse to school and a brand-new pair of cowboy boots! Growing up in Plano prepared me to be competitive, quick, and to have a strong work ethic.
I graduated from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas. Axe’em Jacks! That is where my love for East Texas began. The nature, warm smiles, football games, and community values can't be beat! I graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I was a middle school math teacher in Tyler, Texas. I met my husband, Travis, in Sunday school, and we have been married since September 2016.
I love being a REALTOR® in East Texas! Relationships are genuine, the area is beautiful, and the market is rockin’! I am an involved REALTOR® to better the community. Some of the organizations I am involved with are: The Professional Development Committee, Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee, and Tyler Educational Networking Group. Some awards I have won were “The Hustle Award” in 2016, and “Rookie of the Year” in 2017.
When I am not working with my clients, I like to spend quality time with my friends and family doing the following: running, target practice, read and participate in book club, and playing with my dachshund Greta.
