Dawn and Ken Toll and their family recently found the house of their dreams on a beautifully landscaped property just outside of Tupperville.
It was an immaculate 1846 red brick two story Georgian home that happened to be for sale but they were warned that since it was a designated heritage property, personalizing the home wouldn’t be possible.
They were told by friends that they would need permission to hang a picture on a wall or make any changes to the home.
The couple was determined to discover the facts and what they found convinced them that buying the home was the right decision.
Owners of designated properties are not restricted from undertaking works related to regular upkeep, most interior modifications, landscaping and minor alterations where there is no permanent impact to the specific heritage attributes of the property. Furthermore, restoration work that is sympathetic to the original intent of the architect is desirable.
“We are excited for the journey ahead of us living in this beautiful old house,” the couple said. “There is something exciting about living in an old home where so many families have lived before us and so many memories have been made inside the walls of this home.”
Members of the Municipal Heritage Committee visited the couple recently to present them with a welcome basket containing information on owning a designated property as well as their property’s designation report outlining the important heritage qualities of the property. The basket also included locally grown and manufactural foods from a variety of communities within Chatham Kent.
The couple and their family loves their new “old” home as they feel as though they have always lived there.
“Of course renovating an old home comes with challenges, but the Municipal Heritage Committee has provided us with a list of contractors that specialize in old homes and preserving their natural beauty, and have offered their help anytime we have questions,” they said. “The only restrictions we have are based around the exterior look of the house which we are completely on board with since this is the reason we purchased this home and is a major part of its charm and beauty. We are free to personalize the inside of the home to suit our needs and style. Looking forward to the transformation of this great place!”
