Thinking about buying a downtown building?
Investing in Downtown Winchester means becoming part of a growing movement to preserve our historic character while shaping a thriving future.
With its central location, walkable streets, and strong sense of community, downtown is the economic and cultural heart of our city.
Through strategic revitalization efforts, public-private partnerships, and ongoing infrastructure improvements, Winchester is creating an environment where local businesses can flourish, property values can grow, and visitors are drawn to spend time and resources.
Whether you are a developer, entrepreneur, or community partner, opportunities to invest in downtown are abundant — and your investment helps strengthen the foundation of a vibrant, connected, and prosperous Winchester.
Things you should know before you buy:
The heart of downtown Winchester is within a Historic District Overlay (HDO) and all changes to the exterior of buildings within the HDO district are governed by the Historic Preservation Commission. The commission’s goal is to manage change over time to protect the authentic character of downtown. This helps to protect your property value, but may also limit what you can do to the exterior of your property. Find out if your property is within the Historic District Overlay and learn more about the Historic Preservation Commission.
If you plan to change the use of the building, you MAY be required by the state to bring the building up to Kentucky State Building Codes. For example, if your building is currently used for retail, but you plan to have a restaurant in the space, that is a “change of use.” Check with the department of Building Inspection.
Additionally, if you plan to change the use of the building you MAY need a conditional use permit from the Board of Adjustments. Check with the department of Planning and Community Development before you sign on the dotted line.
If the building you plan to purchase is 50+ years old, you may be eligible for Federal and/or Kentucky Historic Tax Credits to help cover the cost of renovation or rehabilitation of the structure.