We Bought a 140-Year-Old House in New Jersey for $550,000

Why It Matters

Renovating historic homes like this Victorian demonstrates how preserving architectural heritage can create unique value and appeal for location‑focused buyers, influencing real‑estate investment strategies.

Key Takeaways

• 140‑year‑old Victorian bought for $550K in Atlantic Highlands
• Renovation revealed historic artifacts like 1948 rookie baseball card
• Owners value location: two blocks from water, ferry commute
• Project transformed six‑bedroom layout to five, removing a wall
• Emphasis on preserving history despite extensive “money‑pit” repairs

Summary

Amanda and Vinny Drees purchased a 140‑year‑old Victorian home in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, for $550,000 and embarked on an extensive renovation. The property, located just two blocks from the waterfront and within walking distance of the ferry, offered an attractive blend of historic charm and commuter convenience.

During the remodel, the couple uncovered a trove of period artifacts, including a vintage breast pump, a 1948 Stan Musial rookie baseball card, and handwritten letters dating back to the 1930s, underscoring the house’s rich provenance. They also reconfigured the original six‑bedroom layout to five bedrooms by removing a wall, balancing preservation with modern functionality.

The Dreeses highlighted the emotional draw of the home’s history, noting that the “money‑pit” label from their realtor masked the unique character and potential of the property. Their experience illustrates how older homes can yield unexpected discoveries that enhance both personal satisfaction and market appeal.

This project reflects a growing trend of buyers seeking historic residences for their narrative value, location advantages, and long‑term appreciation potential, despite the higher upfront renovation costs.

Original Description

When Amanda DeRise’s father sent her a listing for a 140-year-old six-bedroom, two-bathroom house in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, her first thought was that it needed a lot of work. Her realtor even called it a “money pit.” But Amanda, 32, and her husband, Vincent DeRise, 34, saw potential in the home. In 2024, they purchased the home for $550,000 and have spent $172,000 on renovations so far.

Take a closer look inside in the related video.