Victorian architecture is an expression of the “More is more” philosophy of design, producing ornate, intricate homes that resemble giant dollhouses. The style is perennially popular and when preserved properly, results in feature-worthy dwellings.
Victorians were supercharged in the late 1800s by the development of steam-powered sawmills, which could mass-produce wood trim with ornate patterns quickly and cheaply, making complicated designs in bright colors available to everyday Americans.
Many classic Victorians are still standing, in almost every corner of the country. And many of these large vintage homes are deceptively affordable.
We turned up 10 Victorians on the market for less than $300,000—and they aren’t fixer-uppers, either. Many of the homes we’ve highlighted below have been lovingly updated, restored, and preserved, ensuring that these grand dames will have a bright future.
Get ready to dream about stained glass, fancy parlors, and idly sitting on the front porch, watching the carriages roll by.
637 Crescent Ave, Ellwood City, PA
Price: $224,000
Grove House: Built in 1891 by Captain Abraham C. Grove, this five-bedroom home has been fully restored. Many of the home’s original features remain, including two fireplaces, woodwork, pocket doors, and stained-glass windows. Recent updates include a new kitchen with quartz countertops, front and side porches, and a new bathroom in the main bedroom suite.
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518 Lincolnway E, Mishawaka, IN
Price: $159,900
Boggs House:It was originally built in 1898 by the Boggs family, and much of this Victorian home’s original charm remains, including crystal door knobs, skeleton key entry, beveled glass windows, inlaid design hardwood floors, and oak woodwork. There is some work ahead for an enterprising buyer—the place is being sold as is. With four bedrooms and nearly 2,800 square feet, there’s no limit to what new owners could do with the property.
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15 Hillside Pl, New Britain, CT
Price: $235,000
Mitchell House: Built in 1888 for Charles E. Mitchell, the attorney who wrote the charter for the town of New Britain, this four-bedroom Queen Anne Victorian looks like a million bucks. And the asking price is way less than that! The 2,700-square-foot home sits on more than a half-acre, and highlights include hardwood floors, coffered ceilings, and pocket doors, plus ornate woodwork and trim.
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307 Seminary St, Lodi, WI
Price: $274,900
Backyard oasis: Built in 1910, this Victorian was recently fully restored by its current owners, who also made over the lovely backyard. The three-bedroom home is highlighted with maple cabinetry, a copper sink, wood floors, and ornate chandeliers. There’s a deck out back along with a pergola, a shed, and a carport.
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116 W. Main St, Manchester, MI
Price: $279,900
Main Street masterpiece: This quaint four-bedroom Victorian was built in 1902 and sits on the city’s main drag. It includes original crown molding, a full wall of pass-through cabinets, and an updated bathroom. The double lot boasts a lovely yard and a detached two-car garage.
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16 Alden St, Worcester, MA
Price: $229,900
Green Victorian: This adorable home has been fully updated with green, environmentally advanced features, including solar panels, Marmoleum and bamboo flooring, and VOC paint. The three-bedroom home sits across the street from Oread Castle Park, a 3-acre open space with basketball courts, picnic tables, and outdoor fitness areas.
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545 McGhee St, Jellico, TN
Price: $185,000
Jellico gem: Built in 1902, this roomy five-bedroom, over 2,600-square-foot home features original woodwork and hardwood floors. There’s also a wraparound porch, three fireplaces, stained glass, a grand staircase, and plenty of natural light. Surrounding the home are fruit trees and blueberry bushes, and there’s a park right across the street.
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980 NE 2nd St, Dufur, OR
Price: $259,000
Mount Hood views: With views of Mount Hood from the second floor, this Victorian offers plenty to get excited about. Built in 1904, much of the three-bedroom home has been updated, including the kitchen, covered deck, windows, and a new roof.
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213 E. Union St, Rockton, IL
Price: $265,000
Farmhouse fabulous: Located in historic Rockton, this pastel-hued Victorian has five bedrooms and more than 2,400 square feet. Sitting on a large lot, the home has been restored to capture its original magic, while offering modern comforts. There’s a full glass conservatory and a covered wraparound porch, as well as a finished basem*nt.
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201 Fountain Ave, Paducah, KY
Price: $154,000
Tucked away from it all: Built in 1881, this home features soaring ceilings, an ample front porch with leaded glass alcove, and gorgeous staircase. The upstairs could be a total master retreat, with a main bedroom suite and a sitting room or office. The central bathroom has been recently updated, and the home’s backyard is overlooked by a deck.
