Preserving the Past, Living in Style: Historic Homes for Sale in Birmingham, Alabama
There’s something magical about a historic home—the architectural details, the old-growth trees, the whisper of stories from decades past. In Birmingham, Alabama, we’re lucky to have entire neighborhoods filled with these treasures—and thanks to local expert Steve Buchanan, some of the most stunning historic homes in the city are not only preserved, but thoughtfully updated for modern living.
Steve isn’t just our historic home specialist—he’s also a passionate preservationist, having restored multiple homes in the coveted Forest Park neighborhood. His eye for detail and commitment to craftsmanship shine through in every listing he represents.
Here are three of our current favorite historic listings, each one packed with character, charm, and move-in ready features:
Hollywood Neighborhood | Built in 1931 | $949,900
Set on a beautifully landscaped corner lot in historic Hollywood, this classically styled home has that rare combo of elegant bones and modern upgrades. Step into a large formal living room with a gas fireplace, soaring ceilings, and natural light for days. The sunroom—with its original tile—is begging to be your next home office.
The kitchen? Total showstopper. Think marble countertops, white cabinetry, and brand-new induction appliances. Bathrooms are just as swoon-worthy, with black-and-white basket weave tile in the primary suite and a fully tiled guest bath.
Bonus points: a renovated lower-level flex space (with its own bedroom and bath), walk-up attic storage, and a brand-new roof in 2023. You’re minutes from downtown, UAB, and Mountain Brook Village—but you might never want to leave your garden.
201 La Prado Place
Forest Park | Built in the 1930s | $979,000
Perched on one of Forest Park’s most beloved streets, this stately 1930s Tudor-inspired beauty is all about refined charm and high-end finishes. From the moment you step into the elegant formal living room—with its tall ceilings, fireplace, and arched built-in bookcases—you’ll feel the craftsmanship that sets this home apart.
The spacious dining room flows seamlessly into a cozy family room, while the chef’s kitchen is a true showpiece: sleek custom cabinetry, a luxe mix of limestone and marble counters, island seating for four, and top-tier Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances—plus a second catering fridge for when you're hosting the whole block. Step right out to a covered back porch and lush gardens built for entertaining.
Upstairs, the primary suite is a retreat of its own, complete with a fireplace, walk-in closet, and a spa-like bath with marble flooring and a deep soaking tub. The oversized guest rooms share a bathroom outfitted with a double shower and body jets.
Bonus perks? A massive basement, a two-car garage, and a guest suite with a half bath. All wrapped in jaw-dropping landscaping that makes this home feel like a private escape—just minutes from everything.
720 Linwood Road
Forest Park | Built in 1936 | $592,500
Welcome to storybook charm with Mediterranean flair. This Forest Park bungalow has major curb appeal and interior details you just can’t replicate—like an 11-foot barrel-vaulted ceiling in the living room, a stone fireplace, and textured plaster walls throughout.
French doors lead to a sunroom/home office, and the formal dining room overlooks lush rear gardens. The kitchen is efficient and full of character, complete with a breakfast nook and original butler’s pantry.
With three bedrooms and two updated baths, original hardwoods and hardware, and a landscaped backyard with a garage, this home is a rare Forest Park gem that blends history and comfort effortlessly.
1035 42nd Street South
Forest Park | Built in 1910 | $779,000
This one’s a unicorn: historic Forest Park character with serious space and a price tag under seven figures. Built in 1910, this brick beauty sits just above the street on a corner lot, offering privacy, views, and a little extra presence.
Inside, you’ll find two living spaces (yes, two!), a formal dining room, and a renovated 2024 kitchen with granite counters, slate floors, and gas cooking. Four legit bedrooms upstairs, plus deep closets and two full bathrooms. Downstairs includes a laundry and powder room.
But here’s the kicker: there’s a guest house with its own full bath. Art studio? Home office? Airbnb? You decide. Add in a 50-year roof, updated HVAC, and a bluestone patio, and this one’s a showstopper waiting for its next chapter.
844 42nd Street South
If you’re a lover of old homes with soul—and the kind of upgrades that make them livable today—Steve Buchanan is your go-to guide. These homes won’t last long, and for good reason: they’ve been loved, restored, and are ready for the next generation of Birmingham homeowners to write their story.
Interested in seeing one of these gems in person? Let’s take a tour.