- Look for older homes that still have some of the original history of the home, the more the better, for exampel our house on Warwick still has a lot of the original floors, massive trim, vents and covers, plus the original fireplace, built in sideboard, and parts of the old stair cases. As we think this was originally a duplex, we don't think the front entry stair case is there (stairs are) but you may find bannisters in the walls.
- Look for older homes that don't have a lot of paint on the woodwork. If you want to go back to original, there is a lot of stripping of the old wood work and 30 years ago it was eaiser to paint it white. Our house on Warwick has very little white paint on the woodwork.
- Then you usually need to figure out how to get in a few more bathrooms, this one on Warwick has 2 full baths on the 2nd floor and a 1/2 bath by the back staircase all ready in place.
- Another issue in these older homes are tiny kitchens. This one on Warwick has tons of room for a nice big open kitchen that opens onto the back deck or opens into a hearth room (sort of) and still have a formal dining room if that's your thing.
- We also find that parking can be an issue in Hyde Park, but this great Kansas City Fixer Upper has a car garage. We think that with a new roof and doors that the parking issues will be resolved.
Renovating in Hyde Park an Historic Area of Kansas City Missouri
If you like houses with History with a capital H, then Hyde Park is a great area.
With a great mix of homes, duplexes and apartments. Close to downtown, plaza and all highways, this was THE place to live a short 60 to 75 years ago.
These were solid structures built to last, but because of the size many of the beautiful old homes were converted to duplexes, tri plexs and all sizes of plexes. But they are all going back to original these days.
Some tips on Hyde Park:
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