Top 10 Reasons to Pursue a National Register of Historic Places Nomination for Your Property

Owning a historic property is more than holding a piece of real estate—it's being a steward of our shared cultural heritage. If you're considering a National Register of Historic Places nomination for your property, here are ten compelling reasons why this designation can benefit both you and your community.

1. Significant Tax Incentives and Financial Benefits

National Register listing opens the door to substantial federal and state tax credits for qualified rehabilitation projects. The Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit can provide up to 20% of qualified rehabilitation expenses for income-producing, non-owner occupied (is commercial) properties, potentially saving property owners tens of thousands of dollars on major restoration work. North Carolina offers an additional 15% State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit for both income-producing and non-income-producing properties, making historic preservation financially attractive to both homeowners and commercial property owners. Learn more about tax credits here.

2. Enhanced Property Value and Market Appeal

Historic designation often increases property values and market desirability. Properties listed on the National Register carry prestige and unique character that appeals to discerning buyers. The official recognition of your property's historical significance can translate directly into increased market value and faster sales when the time comes.

3. Access to Grant Funding Opportunities

National Register listing makes your property eligible for various federal, state, and private grant programs specifically designed to support historic preservation. These competitive grants can fund restoration projects, archaeological studies, educational programs, and maintenance work that might otherwise be financially challenging.

4. Protection from Federal and Federally-Funded Projects

Federal agencies are required by law to consider the effects of their projects on National Register properties. This includes direct federal projects as well as state and local projects that use federal funding. Federal highway projects, urban renewal, infrastructure improvements, or other government initiatives must assess and minimize potential impacts on your historic property, providing an important layer of protection.

5. Professional Recognition and Historical Documentation

The nomination process creates a permanent, professionally researched record of your property's historical significance. This comprehensive documentation becomes part of the official historical record, ensuring your property's story is preserved for future generations and providing valuable research material for historians and genealogists.

6. Community Pride and Cultural Identity

National Register designation contributes to community character and cultural identity. Your property becomes part of a larger narrative about local history, contributing to tourism, economic development, and civic pride. This recognition helps communities maintain their unique character in an increasingly homogenized world.

7. Eligibility for Preservation Easements - The ONLY Permanent Protection

National Register listing makes your property eligible for preservation easements, which are the only way to permanently protect historic structures in North Carolina. These voluntary legal agreements with qualified organizations like Preservation NC can provide additional federal tax deductions while ensuring your property's historic character is preserved in perpetuity. Unlike National Register listing alone, easements create legally binding protections that run with the deed forever.

8. Flexibility in Property Use and Modification

Contrary to common misconceptions, National Register listing is honorary and does not restrict what private property owners can do with their buildings. There are no restrictions on use, modification, or even demolition unless federal funds or federal permits are involved. You maintain full control over your property while gaining the benefits of recognition.

8. Educational and Research Value

Your property becomes a valuable educational resource for students, researchers, and the general public. The detailed historical research conducted during the nomination process often reveals fascinating stories and connections that enrich understanding of local and national history.

9. Tourism and Economic Development Potential

Historic properties attract heritage tourists and can become focal points for community economic development. Whether through guided tours, special events, or simply as architectural landmarks, National Register properties contribute to local tourism economies and can generate additional income opportunities.

10. Legacy Preservation for Future Generations

Perhaps most importantly, National Register nomination ensures that your property's historical significance is officially recognized and documented for posterity. You become part of a national effort to preserve America's heritage, leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond your period of ownership.

Ready to Begin Your Nomination?

The National Register nomination process typically takes 12-18 months and requires detailed historical research and documentation. While property owners can prepare nominations themselves, working with qualified historic preservation professionals ensures the strongest possible application and maximizes your chances of successful listing.

Questions to ask prior to pursuing National Register listing:

  1. Is the building over 50 years old?

  2. Has it retained enough of its historic character to tell its story?

  3. Can I prove its significance?

  4. What are my goals with listing?

  5. Do I understand that listing doesn't restrict what I can do with my property?

  6. Have I viewed the list of Moore County properties currently listed on the National Register?

Contact us today to discuss whether your property may be eligible for listing. We can then direct you to the proper how National Register designation can benefit your historic property and help preserve an important piece of Moore County’s shared heritage.