I am looking at a duplex which is in a historical restoration area in my city.

I have a contractor who’s done multiple historic renovation in this area.

What are some traps I should keep my eye on?

What tips do you have?

Originally posted by @Aj Brown :

I am looking at a duplex which is in a historical restoration area in my city.

I have a contractor who’s done multiple historic renovation in this area.

What are some traps I should keep my eye on?

What tips do you have?

These can be really fun and rewarding projects. Just make sure you fully understand the rules and the costs associated with compliance. Do not do a cost plus contract make sure its a turn key GMP contract. There may also be state and local tax credits you can take advantage of as well.  

@Aj Brown double your timeline right off the bat

Make sure your everything is being passed through by the city before starting anything.  Historical renovations come with a lot of extra baggage and loop holes.  Seen a few projects get shut down in Des Moines after the property guidelines weren't followed.