If You Own a Craftsman Home, Now Is the Time To Cash In

Beloved for their timeless charm, Craftsman homes are in high demand these days, thanks to their distinctive character and sense of history.

Their authentic design and meticulous craftsmanship give them an unmistakable warmth and personality that buyers love. In turn, savvy sellers can turn that widespread appeal into a higher listing price.

In fact, if you've enjoyed living in your Craftsman for at least the past decade, you're likely looking at a nearly 50% increase in sale price from when you bought it!

Why Craftsman homes are in such high demand

Craftsman architecture is as appealing today as it was a century ago.

"The gorgeous woodwork, cabinetry built right into the walls, exposed beams, intact original fireplaces, and wide front porches found in Craftsman homes have a strong appeal to buyers," says real estate agent Jake Kennedy, of Compass Real Estate in Nashville.

The reason? These homes resonate with buyers on both an emotional and historical level.

"Because quality, craftsmanship, and community character are baked into the DNA of a true Craftsman home, they strike an emotional chord," says Kennedy. "Buyers aren’t just purchasing a house. They’re buying quality, history, and a kind of soul that new construction can’t imitate."

Architectural expert Lauren Lerner, founder and principal designer of Living with Lolo, agrees.

"There's also this broader cultural shift toward buying less but investing better, choosing craftsmanship and materials that age beautifully instead of chasing whatever's trending on Instagram," she says.

Because of this, people are often willing to pay a premium for the chance to own a Craftsman home.

Nationally, Craftsman homes have appreciated 3.8% over the past year, according to the latest Realtor.com® research and have appreciated by a whopping 43.7% over the past six years.  The only architectural style home selling better is ranch.

On average, Craftsman homes sell for about $42,000 higher than the national median, with a current median price of $467,000.

What features and locations drive the most value

Certain traits make certain Craftsman homes stand out, including low-pitched gable roofs, artisan cabinetry, and exposed wood detailing.

Though Craftsman homes can be found nationwide, they’re especially common in the Pacific Northwest and parts of the Midwest. In Portland, OR, 4% of listings are Craftsman-style, while Craftsman homes make up 3.7% of Detroit’s active listings.

But for the best bet on landing in a Craftsman-style home, look no further than Atlanta. Here, Craftsman homes account for 14.2% of all active listings, the highest share of any metro nationwide. 

"Craftsman-style homes are a staple in the new-home construction market and a growing share of resales in metro Atlanta," explains real estate professional and attorney Bruce Ailion, of Re/Max Town & Country.

He thinks the appeal of Craftsman-style homes in Atlanta comes from their nod to a simpler, bygone era.

"In Atlanta, the heart of the New South, many newcomers find the Craftsman style captures the spirit of the old South," Ailion says. "In times when we face insecurity from the economy, jobs, and world events, there is something comforting about these homes, which reflect a slower, more community-oriented time."

And for those looking to land in a Craftsman, Ailion says now is an opportune time to buy.

"Since Atlanta is still experiencing a softer market with increased listing inventory, bidding wars are far less common than they've been in the past," he says.

But real estate agent Danielle McCain, with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate in Monroe, CT, claims that's not the case in her market.

"When a Craftsman home is put up for sale, we’re often seeing multiple-offer situations where emotion is driving urgency," she reports. "Buyers are willing to waive contingencies, stretch budgets, or move quickly to secure these properties."

Pricing and marketing strategies for Craftsman sellers

The home above is a listing in Kirkwood, a historical neighborhood on the east side of Atlanta. It's currently priced at $520,000, a 51.6% increase from when it last changed in 2015, proving that Craftsman are demanding top dollar.

Pricing these homes correctly is key to maximizing their premium value while remaining competitive.

"Pricing should reflect both tangible features and intangible appeal," says McCain. "While comps matter, Craftsman homes often command a premium for originality, location, and condition. A strategic pricing sweet spot that is close enough to drive traffic, but reflective of its architectural value, can spark bidding activity."

Before listing a Craftsman home, it can be worth your while to invest in light restoration and staging.

"Refinishing woodwork, polishing original hardware, or restoring period lighting can amplify a home’s perceived value," says McCain. "Staging that nods to the home’s heritage will complement its architectural charm."

Documentation of the home’s history is another valuable tool for attracting buyers.

"Buyers choosing a historic home over new construction want the story that comes with it," says Kennedy. "The more history and character you can share, the more justified your asking price becomes."

Effective marketing can make all the difference when selling a Craftsman home.

"Craftsman buyers care about authenticity, so highlight original details in your listing photos and don’t be afraid to lean into a home's heritage," says McCain. "Target architectural- and design-minded buyers who understand the value of preservation. And proximity to a historic district or walkable neighborhood should be featured front and center, as it’s often as much of a draw as the house itself."