This Old Northwest House

The city plans its own version of "This Old House" with a recent purchase of an historic Old Northwest neighborhood home.

From the outside, the Largo house’s sun-faded blue asbestos tile, small porch and red brick fireplace are remnants of some of the city’s first subdivision.

The house at 159 5th St. NW has been vacant for several years, according to city officials. Built in 1925, it still retains many of its original architectural features.

And city leaders have plans to bring back the home's former glory, recently approving its purchase for $41,000, plus plans to spend another $44,000 for improvements.

The interior and exterior rehabilitation work including updating electrical, plumbing, which includes a new second bathroom, and HVAC and air conditioning systems will attempt to preserve, as much as possible, the historic features of the house.

After it is renovated the home will be sold to an income-eligible family as part of the State Housing Initiatives Partnership and Affordable Housing Development program.

This house is located next to the 1926 "Perkins" house that was moved to the location, rehabilitated and sold in 2008 under the Affordable Housing Development program.

The result when complete: two 1920s homes restored to historic standards in the city's oldest neighborhood.

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