House History Research

House history research brings together land records, historic maps, archival sources, and the lives of the people connected to a property.

Projects may focus on an existing structure, a former homestead, or land that has changed over time through subdivision or development.

Every property has a story!

Who this is for

This service may be of interest to:

  • Homeowners who have purchased an older home.

  • Realtors working with heritage properties (over 100 years old). Adds story and context for century homes.

  • Families researching land or farms once owned by their ancestors

  • Anyone curious about how a property or parcel of land has evolved

Project levels & pricing

House history research is more than locating records. Each project involves evaluating sources, reconciling conflicting information, and placing people and property within their historical and community context. The goal is a well-researched, readable, and lasting record — not a list of documents.

House history projects are offered at three levels. All projects are scoped in advance based on location, record availability, and research goals.

Basic House History

A concise, presentation-ready overview.

  • Timeline of owners and/or occupants

  • One or two historical images (such as a deed or map), where available

  • Small framed poster summarizing the property’s history

  • Basic House History projects typically start at $800 CAD

In-Depth House History

Expanded research and context.

Includes everything in the Basic package, plus:

  • A more complete ownership and occupancy timeline

  • Biographical information about past owners or occupants

  • More elaborate framable poster

  • Short written narrative report

  • In-Depth House History projects typically start at $1,200 CAD

Comprehensive Property History

A fully developed, publication-quality property history.

Includes everything in the In-Depth package, plus:

  • Extensive research using all relevant available sources

  • In-depth biographical analysis, including community context

  • Full transcriptions of records included in the report

  • Professionally printed and framed poster

  • Professionally printed final report

  • Comprehensive Property History projects are quoted individually based on scope.

All research is clearly sourced, and the scope of research is discussed in advance.

Interested in learning more?

If you are curious about the history of a house or property, I would be thrilled to discuss what might be possible.

~Susan

susan.arness@gmail.com

Customizable, ready to frame poster!