Owning a St. Augustine historic district home means owning a piece of the nation’s oldest city. Older properties also come with older records, so a careful title search and survey matter more than usual. Here is what to watch for.
What Title Issues Come With Historic St. Augustine Homes? Quick Answer
Older properties are more likely to have old or unclear legal descriptions, encroachments from fences, walls or structures built decades ago, unrecorded easements, gaps in the chain of title from estates that were never probated, and past work that was never permitted. A full title search, a current survey and an owner’s title insurance policy help protect buyers, and city historic preservation review may apply to future exterior changes.
What to Check Before Closing
- Order a current boundary survey. Older lots often have structures that cross property lines.
- Review the chain of title for estates, heirs and old deeds that may need curative work.
- Check permit history for additions and renovations.
- Ask about historic preservation rules with the City of St. Augustine before planning exterior changes.
- Get insurance quotes early, since older homes and flood zones can affect pricing.
Why Owner’s Title Insurance Matters More Here
An owner’s policy protects you from covered title defects that existed before you bought, such as a missing heir or a forged deed in the chain of title. For a historic property, that protection is especially valuable. See our Florida title insurance guide.
Related: St. Augustine flood zones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renovate a historic district home?
Usually yes, but exterior changes may require review by the city. Check with the City of St. Augustine first.
Why is a survey important for older homes?
Old fences, walls and additions can encroach on neighboring lots or easements.
Do historic homes cost more to insure?
Often. Get quotes during your inspection period.
Closing in St. Augustine or St. Johns County?
Title Company of Florida handles title searches, title insurance and closings for St. Augustine, St. Augustine Beach, Nocatee, Ponte Vedra and all of St. Johns County. Sign with a mobile notary near you, by remote online notarization, or by mail, and we record electronically with the county.
Learn more about our St. Augustine title company services.
General information only, not legal or tax advice. County procedures, deadlines and websites can change; confirm with the office named. Title Company of Florida is a Florida licensed title agency (License #G324751).
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Affiliated business disclosure: Realty ONE Group Elevate is owned by Tanya Cosmini. Title Company of Florida is owned by her husband, Sam Gorniak, and Rental Property Partners is owned within the same family. Because of these family relationships, the owners may benefit when you use more than one of these companies. You are not required to use any of them and are free to choose other providers.