Updated 2/4/18; Originally published 7/16/16
The Fort Hood area is not known for its old homes. The average age of a home sold in Killeen in 2016 was approximately 12 years old (built 2004). The reason is simple. The Killeen population in 2000 was about 80,000. Today, 15 years later, it is over 130,000. Builders have been building non-stop during that time, keeping up with the housing demand.
The oldest home sold in 2017 was a Victorian home built in 1884 in Temple, for $236,000 on six acres. Only 50 homes sold in all of Bell, Coryell, and Lampasas Counties built in 1930 or earlier.
Very few of the homes are in Killeen, which, although the largest city in the Fort Hood area, is also the newest, not taking off in population until the arrival of Fort Hood during World War Two. Temple, Gatesville, Lampasas, and Belton are the older areas in the Fort Hood area, where most of these homes were located.
With all the new homes available in the Fort Hood area, one might think old homes would have some tough competition. Sure enough, the median sales price of the 50 homes built in 1930 or earlier was $93,500. Some are still true gems, however, with the most expensive sale being a home built in 1898 in Salado, originally a train depot, on 16 acres for $650,000.
Historical Homes
For sale at the time of this writing asking $175,000 is the Allin House, a designated historical home by the State of Texas at 401 N. Main in Copperas Cove. The home was built in 1913 by the first mayor of Copperas Cove.
There are numerous historical homes in the area. One home not included among them is the home Elvis Presley lived in while stationed at Fort Hood. You can see a map of all the historical landmarks and their history in the area at The Texas Historic Sites Atlas.
Buying an Older Home
Older homes certainly have their charms. But dated construction styles can impact the future rentability or resale value of an older home. They can also bring with them a host of other issues if they haven’t been updated recently. For example, updating the electrical systems can often be the most costly, necessary update for old homes. Rewiring a home can cost $10,000+. Always do your due diligence with any home by getting an inspection during your option period.