Grand Rapids, Michigan, is home to one of the Midwest’s richest collections of historic architecture, where tree-lined streets and lovingly preserved homes tell the story of more than a century of American design. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless charm of a Victorian, the clean lines of a Craftsman, or the enduring character of a classic farmhouse, the city offers a remarkable selection of period homes—all for under $1 million. In this roundup, we spotlight four exceptional properties: a 1920 Farmhouse, a 1890 Historic beauty, a 1905 Victorian gem, and a 1915 Craftsman, each blending vintage character with thoughtful modern updates.
1. 1920 Farmhouse in Grand Rapids, MI
Built in 1920, this charming American farmhouse in Grand Rapids, Michigan, blends timeless appeal with thoughtful updates. Featuring classic wood siding and a welcoming front porch shaded by ornamental trees, the home retains its historic integrity while offering modern comforts. Renovations include a remodeled kitchen with newer appliances, updated bathrooms, and fresh paint throughout. Listed at $310,000, this 1,474 sq ft home sits on a 5,227 sq ft lot with alley access, a fenced yard, and a two-stall garage with carport.
Where is Grand Rapids?
Located in western Michigan, Grand Rapids sits along the Grand River, just 30 miles east of Lake Michigan and roughly 150 miles northwest of Detroit. Known for its historic neighborhoods and strong architectural heritage, the city was once dubbed “Furniture City” for its manufacturing roots. Today, it boasts a vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and a rich array of historic homes. Visitors flock to the Frederik Meijer Gardens, ArtPrize festival, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Meyer May House.
Living Room
This inviting living room showcases soft gray walls paired with rich natural wood trim and baseboards, preserving its 1920s character. Two large windows allow natural light to filter in, illuminating the plush light-gray sofas and coordinating pillows. A glass-top coffee table adds modern contrast against the textured carpet. The open layout connects seamlessly to the dining space, framed by original wooden beams, offering a warm and comfortable atmosphere ideal for gathering or relaxing.
Dining Room
Bathed in natural light from a trio of rectangular windows, the dining room offers a perfect blend of vintage charm and mid-century modern flair. The space centers around a round wooden table on a soft blue area rug, surrounded by four streamlined chairs. A golden radiator and wood trim frame the scene, while a large pendant light above casts a warm, ambient glow. Neutral walls and minimal décor make this room feel fresh yet rooted in its historical past.
Kitchen
The kitchen blends efficiency and style, with white cabinetry and updated appliances set against a backdrop of warm gray walls and sleek black countertops. A breakfast bar with high-back stools provides a cozy space for casual meals. Recessed lighting and a modern ceiling fixture ensure the space remains bright throughout the day. Wood floors flow through to the adjacent hallway, maintaining a cohesive look. This eat-in kitchen captures both the home’s practical function and historic charm.
Garage & Carport
Located off a quiet alley, the detached two-stall garage with adjoining carport provides ample parking and utility space. Set beneath mature trees, the structure is painted white to match the home’s façade and is partially enclosed for weather protection. Chain-link fencing and a shaded driveway enhance functionality while preserving the home’s welcoming backyard atmosphere. This practical setup is ideal for Michigan winters and adds value to this centrally located historic property.
Source: Coldwell Banker Schmidt Realtors via Zillow
2. 1890 Historic Home in Grand Rapids, MI
This stately 1890 home in the coveted Heritage Hill district of Grand Rapids, Michigan, showcases classic American architecture and timeless craftsmanship. Priced at $595,000, it offers 2,469 square feet of living space on a beautifully landscaped 6,098 square feet lot. Architectural highlights include a wide front porch with stone pillars, wood siding, and a steep gabled dormer. Recent updates include a working pocket door system, a versatile upper-level apartment, and a spacious walk-up attic. The property also features a large garage, full basement, and original woodwork throughout, offering rare historic charm with modern convenience.
Where is Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids is located in western Michigan, along the Grand River and just east of Lake Michigan. As the second-largest city in the state, it’s known for its historic neighborhoods like Heritage Hill—one of the largest urban historic districts in the U.S. Once a hub for furniture production, Grand Rapids now boasts a thriving arts scene, walkable downtown, and attractions like the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum and Frederik Meijer Gardens. Its architectural heritage includes beautifully preserved 19th-century homes and a rich cultural tapestry.
Kitchen
The kitchen pairs practicality with vintage charm, featuring warm wooden cabinetry with decorative paneling and built-in wine storage. A stainless steel gas range and refrigerator offer modern convenience, while soft green countertops and a black-and-white checkered floor add retro appeal. The ceiling is adorned with classic pressed tin detailing, giving the space a timeless character. Ample counter space and natural flow to adjoining rooms make this a functional yet character-rich heart of the home.
Living Room
This light-filled living room exudes elegance with polished hardwood floors and original dark wood trim framing the windows, doors, and baseboards. A central fireplace with a classic mantel adds a cozy focal point. Large windows flood the space with natural light, while a ceiling fan adds practicality and comfort. The layout flows into the adjoining dining room, with pocket doors that provide flexible separation. The overall feel is warm, open, and full of 19th-century grace.
Bedroom
A spacious upstairs bedroom features polished hardwood floors and soft white walls framed by wide white trim. Two large windows bring in abundant light and offer treetop views, while a simple curtain rod adds functionality without detracting from the clean, classic style. The room’s open layout makes it easily customizable, whether as a guest bedroom or personal retreat. It’s a peaceful and airy space, full of subtle historic detail.
Backyard
The backyard is a lush, landscaped retreat with mature trees, flowering shrubs, and a gently winding stone-edged path. A wide lawn connects to a large rear garage with a satellite dish and a gated wood privacy fence. The paved patio area offers ample space for entertaining or grilling, framed by blooming perennials and shaded by towering trees. This serene outdoor space feels private and well-tended—an ideal extension of this elegant historic home.
Source: Five Star Real Estate via Zillow
3. 1905 Victorian Home in Grand Rapids, MI
Step into 1905 elegance with this beautifully preserved Victorian home in the heart of Grand Rapids’ prestigious Heritage Hill district. Listed at $649,900, this 3,386 sq ft residence rests on a 6,534 sq ft lot and features ornate crown moldings, original hardwood floors, and timeless craftsmanship throughout. The grand front porch with classic columns welcomes you in, while updates like a new boiler system (2022), heated kitchen and bath floors, and an oversized two-stall garage blend modern convenience with historic integrity. A true gem just steps from the iconic Meyer May House.
Where is Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids is located in western Michigan, nestled along the Grand River and just 30 miles from Lake Michigan. Known for its vibrant arts scene and deep-rooted architectural heritage, the city is home to the Heritage Hill Historic District, one of the oldest and largest urban historic neighborhoods in the nation. Visitors enjoy attractions like the Frederik Meijer Gardens, Gerald R. Ford Museum, and the Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Meyer May House. Its central location offers easy access to both cultural experiences and outdoor recreation.
Living Room
This warm and inviting living room features original hardwood floors and soft beige walls framed with crisp white crown moldings and trim. A classic white fireplace with dark tile hearth anchors the space, while built-in shelving flanks the back wall for elegant storage and display. The layout flows into a sun-filled four-season room through glass-paned French doors. With layered lighting from table lamps and natural windows, the room offers a cozy and refined atmosphere perfect for both entertaining and quiet evenings.
Kitchen
The kitchen is a harmonious mix of historic character and modern function. Terracotta floor tiles ground the space, while rich wood cabinetry and a butcher-block island add rustic warmth. Pale yellow walls and white trim brighten the room, complemented by pendant lighting above the central island. Green built-in cabinets offer additional charm and storage. With views to the garden and ample natural light from two large windows, this kitchen is both welcoming and efficient, ideal for family meals or morning coffee.
Bedroom
This cozy, virtually staged bedroom sits beneath softly sloping ceilings, with two windows that bring in serene natural light. Pale yellow walls and light carpeting create a restful backdrop, while a tufted cream headboard, matching nightstands, and neutral bedding give the room a timeless, elegant style. Framed artwork and simple lighting enhance the tranquil mood. Perfect as a primary suite or guest retreat, the space combines privacy, warmth, and classic Victorian proportions.
Backyard
This private backyard offers a peaceful outdoor retreat, framed by mature trees and perennial gardens. A brick patio provides space for outdoor dining or lounging beneath the canopy of a central tree, complete with a charming hanging swing chair. Large windows from the home overlook the yard, filling the rear rooms with natural light. The fenced garden beds and soft lawn space make this a perfect setting for relaxed gatherings, morning reading, or kids at play—all in a beautifully preserved historic setting.
Source: RE/MAX of Grand Rapids via Zillow
4. 1915 Craftsman Home in Grand Rapids, MI
This 1915 American Foursquare Craftsman home sits proudly in the heart of Grand Rapids’ historic Heritage Hill. Listed at $540,000, the home spans 2,371 sq ft on a 4,356 sq ft lot, showcasing deep blue wood siding, a large front porch with stone pillars, and a welcoming gabled roofline. Recent upgrades include plaster repairs (2025), exterior paint (2023), new driveway and retaining walls, and a new furnace and water heater (2024). Highlights include a grand foyer, coffered-ceiling dining room, a rare usable 2nd-floor balcony, and a beautifully converted carriage house garage.
Where is Grand Rapids?
Located in western Michigan, Grand Rapids is a vibrant city nestled along the Grand River and just 30 miles from Lake Michigan. Known for its rich cultural heritage, the city is home to the renowned Heritage Hill Historic District—one of the oldest and most architecturally diverse urban neighborhoods in the U.S. Visitors are drawn to its walkable streets, Victorian and Craftsman homes, and cultural destinations like the Meyer May House and Grand Rapids Art Museum. The city is also known for its lively brewery scene and local eateries.
Living Room
The living room offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with rich wood flooring, a neutral tan wall palette, and a cozy fireplace housed in a dark wood mantel. A large sectional sofa and mid-century-style chairs create a comfortable seating area. Three framed vintage posters and soft lighting add personality, while an opening to the formal dining room allows for open flow. Natural light filters through sheer drapes, giving this space a relaxed, welcoming feel that blends comfort and tradition.
Kitchen
This charming kitchen pairs classic wooden cabinetry with modern stainless steel appliances, including a gas range and built-in microwave. Earth-toned countertops and a single-basin sink are complemented by a trio of pendant lights over the workspace. Soft gray-blue walls and crisp white trim keep the room feeling fresh and airy. A window above the sink brings in daylight, while the adjacent mudroom provides added utility. The layout is efficient and inviting, ideal for everyday use and entertaining alike.
Basement
The basement offers rare livable square footage in this historic home, featuring neutral carpeting and partially finished walls. Exposed beams and ductwork lend an industrial character, while modern lighting keeps the space bright. A mechanical area includes updated systems, and there’s additional space for storage, a workout area, or hobbies. A window brings in natural light, and stairs lead directly to the main floor. This lower-level bonus area adds both value and flexibility to the home.
Backyard
The backyard is thoughtfully terraced, creating a multi-level retreat framed by hedges and evergreens for privacy. A paved patio includes a built-in shuffleboard court and steps that lead to a lush lawn and raised outdoor lounge area. Bright patio furniture and a large umbrella create a cheerful space for gatherings. The detached carriage house-turned-garage, painted to match the home’s exterior, sits at the rear. This is an ideal yard for hosting, relaxing, or enjoying quiet outdoor time in a beautifully preserved neighborhood.
Source: Five Star Real Estate via Zillow