Washington, DC’s rich architectural heritage is beautifully reflected in its historic homes, where timeless design meets modern convenience. In this tour, we explore four stunning properties under $1M that capture the city’s storied past. From the elegant 1885 Traditional Townhouse to the refined 1906 Colonial Home, the classic 1917 Traditional Home, and the distinguished 1924 Colonial Home, each residence offers a unique glimpse into Washington, DC’s enduring charm and thoughtful updates.

1. 1885 Traditional Townhouse in Washington, DC

Built in 1885, this historic townhouse has been beautifully renovated into The Rochester Condominium. Priced at $499,900, it offers one bedroom and one bathroom across 469 square feet of modernized living space. The building’s arched stone entry and distinctive turret reflect its late-19th-century roots. A major 2024 remodel introduced high-end finishes and luxury appliances, blending classic architecture with contemporary comfort in the heart of Dupont Circle.

Where is Washington, DC?

Washington, DC, is the capital of the United States, situated along the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. Known for iconic landmarks like the White House and the National Mall, it is a hub of cultural and political activity. Dupont Circle, in northwest DC, features tree-lined streets, diverse dining options, and vibrant nightlife. The area’s rich history and distinctive rowhouses make it a sought-after neighborhood for residents and visitors alike.

Turret Exterior

A tall, round turret with a pointed metal roof anchors the corner of the building. Cream-colored stone and matching brick create a grand appearance. Narrow windows encircle the turret, and the roof’s copper-toned finish glints in the sunlight. Street trees provide greenery at ground level, while the turret’s height offers a striking focal point in the neighborhood’s architectural landscape.

Kitchen

This compact kitchen features white cabinetry and a marble-topped island with seating for two. Soft gray walls complement the chevron-patterned backsplash. Two pendant lights hang overhead, casting a warm glow on stainless-steel appliances. Natural wood floors run throughout, connecting the kitchen to the adjacent living area. The overall look is bright, modern, and efficient, maximizing space for cooking and entertaining.

Bedroom

A cozy bedroom painted in a gentle gray hue includes tall windows that welcome daylight. A queen-size bed with plush white bedding faces a simple dresser and bedside lamps. Recessed lighting above adds soft illumination, while warm-toned hardwood floors ground the space. The minimal decor and neutral palette create a calming retreat in the midst of a bustling city.

Living Area

Sunlight pours in through large windows, highlighting pale walls and wide-plank wood flooring. A barn-style sliding door in dark metal and glass separates the adjoining room, adding a contemporary edge. A sleek sofa sits near a low coffee table, accented by a patterned rug. The open layout and neutral color scheme give this living space a bright, airy feel, perfect for casual relaxation.

Fountain

A grand stone fountain sits at the center of Dupont Circle, surrounded by lush greenery and walking paths. Carved figures adorn the base, and water cascades into a wide basin below. Park benches invite visitors to pause and enjoy the setting. The circle itself is a popular gathering spot, hosting events, farmers’ markets, and daily commuters passing through this historic urban landmark.

Metro Station

An arched glass canopy marks the entrance to a bustling Metro station. Brick paving leads to escalators descending underground. The station’s modern design contrasts with nearby historic architecture, reflecting Washington, DC’s mix of old and new. Commuters enter and exit throughout the day, making this hub a convenient option for residents seeking quick access to downtown, monuments, and beyond.

Source: Trent Heminger of Compass via Zillow

2. 1906 Colonial Home in Washington, DC

Built in 1906, this semi-detached Colonial sits on a 3,895-square-foot lot in the Takoma neighborhood. Priced at $525,000, it offers 1,248 square feet of living space with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. High ceilings and two decorative fireplaces reflect its early 20th-century origins. Recent energy-efficient upgrades include zoned cooling and solar panels, generating about $2,400 annually. RA-1 zoning adds potential for future expansion or investment opportunities.

Where is Washington, DC?

Washington, DC, is located on the East Coast of the United States, bordered by Maryland and Virginia. Established as the nation’s capital in 1790, the city boasts iconic landmarks like the White House, the National Mall, and the Capitol. Takoma, in the city’s northwest quadrant, blends suburban charm with urban conveniences. Nearby Metro stations, restaurants, and cultural sites offer residents easy access to the region’s rich history and vibrant community.

Living Room

A bright living area with bold wall colors and a decorative brick fireplace at one end. Hardwood floors reflect the natural light from a ceiling fan fixture. Wide doorways connect to adjacent rooms, creating an open flow. This space balances a cozy, lived-in feel with ample room for seating. Large windows near the front entrance bring in sunlight, highlighting the home’s original character.

Kitchen

A galley-style kitchen painted in cheerful coral tones. White cabinets contrast with dark countertops, and a stainless-steel gas range anchors one corner. A single window near the sink brightens the workspace. Tiled flooring underfoot is easy to maintain, while overhead lighting keeps the area well-illuminated for cooking. The layout offers efficient use of space for preparing meals.

Bathroom

A compact bathroom with soft green walls and a simple white vanity. An updated faucet and fixtures complement the room’s vintage trim. A single window provides natural light, partially filtered by wooden blinds. Open shelving in bright red offers extra storage for toiletries. The overall design is playful yet functional, blending older elements with fresh paint for a unique look.

Garden

A spacious, fenced backyard cultivated as a fruit and vegetable garden. Raised beds and rustic pathways define planting areas, with mature trees along the perimeter. A simple pergola with a transparent roof provides partial shade, while bright paint accents add whimsy. The lush greenery creates a serene setting for gardening enthusiasts, and the yard’s size offers room for further landscaping or recreation.

Basement

An unfinished basement with exposed beams and utilities visible along the ceiling. A boiler and water heater occupy one corner, while concrete flooring covers most of the space. The washer and dryer sit near a small window, allowing limited natural light. Stairs lead up to the main level, suggesting the potential to finish or renovate the area for added living space.

Source: RE/MAX Excellence Realty via Zillow

3. 1917 Traditional Home in Washington, DC

Built in 1917, this Traditional-style residence sits on a 5,000-square-foot lot in Congress Heights. Priced at $499,000, it offers 1,344 square feet of living space, including four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Recently updated features include two master suites—one on the main floor and another upstairs—plus a wrap-around back porch for outdoor relaxation. The home’s stucco exterior and bright red door add charm, while large windows reflect its early 20th-century heritage.

Where is Washington, DC?

Washington, DC, is the nation’s capital, located along the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. Established in 1790, the city houses iconic landmarks like the White House, the Capitol, and numerous museums. Congress Heights sits in the southeast quadrant, near the historic St. Elizabeths campus, offering a rich cultural backdrop. Easy access to Metro stations and major highways connects residents to the wider DC metropolitan area.

Rear Exterior

Viewed from the backyard, this angle shows two levels of living space with crisp gray siding. A balcony extends off the upper floor, mirroring the covered porch below. The large yard stretches around the house, framed by a tall fence for privacy. Mature trees offer seasonal shade, and sunlight highlights the clean lines of the home’s updated exterior.

Kitchen

A compact, modern kitchen with open shelving and stainless-steel appliances. Warm wood tones on the lower cabinets contrast with the neutral walls, while a sleek metal vent hood draws the eye above the gas range. The countertops are bright and spacious enough for meal prep. Soft overhead lighting and a nearby window keep the area well-lit, creating a functional yet inviting cooking space.

Bathroom

A clean, minimalist bathroom with light gray tile surrounding the tub-shower combo. A dark wood vanity provides storage, and a white sink rests beneath a framed mirror. Soft overhead lighting complements the natural light from a small window. The neutral palette feels modern, offering a calm retreat for daily routines.

Interior

Inside, a light neutral palette and plush carpeting create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. An exterior door leads to the backyard, allowing natural light to stream in. A small nook by the door can be used for seating or decorative displays. Closet doors open to reveal additional storage, while recessed lighting brightens the space. The overall design is airy and versatile, reflecting modern living needs while maintaining the home’s early 20th-century charm.

Backyard

A wide view of the grassy backyard reveals plenty of room for gardening or play. A small shed in one corner stores tools or seasonal items. Fencing around the perimeter ensures privacy, and trees along the property line offer a touch of greenery. From this vantage, you can see the home’s balconies and porches, emphasizing the indoor-outdoor lifestyle it supports.

Deck

A spacious covered deck off the back of the home provides a sheltered spot for outdoor gatherings. White posts and railings frame the area, and overhead, the wooden roof offers protection from sun or rain. The deck overlooks the fenced yard, allowing easy supervision of activities below. It’s an ideal place for a quiet morning coffee or relaxed weekend entertaining.

Source: Samson Properties via Zillow

4. 1924 Colonial Home in Washington, DC

Built in 1924, this Colonial-style residence sits on a 2,381-square-foot lot in the Deanwood neighborhood. Priced at $615,000, it offers 1,602 square feet of living space across three levels. Notably, the sale includes three adjoining lots, presenting valuable potential for future building or expansion. Inside, you’ll find three bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with high ceilings, a spacious living area, and an unfinished basement. It’s an excellent opportunity for those seeking both a historic home and development options in the District.

Where is Washington, DC?

Washington, DC, the capital of the United States, is located along the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. Established in 1790, the city hosts iconic landmarks such as the White House, Capitol Building, and Smithsonian museums. Deanwood, in the northeast quadrant, is known for its residential character and easy access to highways like Route 50 and I-295. Residents enjoy a blend of urban conveniences and community-focused amenities.

Front Porch

A covered front porch spans the width of the home, featuring decorative metal railings and a set of concrete steps leading to the entrance. The porch sits above a low brick wall, adding a touch of elevation from street level. Afternoon light warms the space, creating a pleasant spot for outdoor seating. White siding and green-painted accents lend a classic, inviting appearance to this historic facade.

Hallway

Inside, a short hallway connects the front living area to the kitchen. Beige carpeting covers the floor, continuing up the staircase to the upper level. Wood-paneled walls and a drop ceiling give the space a traditional feel. A narrow opening on one side leads to the living room, while the kitchen lies straight ahead. Natural light from the front door softly illuminates the corridor.

Kitchen

A compact kitchen with cheerful yellow walls and matching tile flooring. Oak cabinets frame a stainless-steel gas stove, and a single-door exit leads to the backyard. A small ceiling fan provides ventilation and overhead light. Though modest in size, the layout accommodates essential appliances and has room for meal prep. The door’s window offers extra sunlight and a glimpse of the outdoors.

Living Room

A bright, open living area featuring beige walls, a ceiling fan, and a window unit air conditioner. A large window near the front porch brings in natural light, while a mirrored accent on one wall expands the sense of space. The soft carpeting and warm paint tones create a relaxed environment for family gatherings or casual entertaining.

Basement

An unfinished basement with exposed ceiling panels and concrete flooring. Partially paneled walls suggest a prior attempt at finishing. Various storage items are scattered around, and utilities like the hot water heater occupy one corner. Low overhead lighting provides minimal illumination. Despite its raw condition, the space offers the potential for an additional living area or a workshop.

Yard

A gently sloping backyard extends from the rear of the home, enclosed by a chain-link fence. Mature trees dot the perimeter, providing shade during warmer months. The lawn’s open expanse allows space for gardening or outdoor recreation. From this vantage, you can see the neighboring lots included in the sale, highlighting the property’s development possibilities.

Source: Samson Properties via Zillow