People often ask me, “Mary, with all the incredible neighborhoods in OKC, why did you choose to live in one of the city’s historic areas?” The answer is simple: there’s just something magical about living in a place that’s rich with history, character, and charm. As someone who’s been in real estate for years, I’ve seen every corner of this city, but my heart always comes back to the Urban Core’s historic neighborhoods like Crown Heights, Heritage Hills, and Mesta Park.
Here’s why living here isn’t just a choice—it’s a lifestyle.
1. A Deep Sense of History There’s something incredibly special about walking through tree-lined streets where every home has a story. In these neighborhoods, homes aren’t cookie-cutter—they’re timeless pieces of architecture with unique histories. From the stately Tudor-style homes to charming bungalows, you can feel the craftsmanship of a different era. Each house is a testament to the past, and that connection to history brings a sense of pride to the community. When you live in a historic neighborhood, you’re not just a homeowner—you’re a caretaker of the city’s legacy.
2. The Character and Charm Are Unmatched Let’s face it, new construction homes have their perks, but nothing compares to the character and charm of a historic home. The details are what make these homes stand out—the original hardwood floors, built-in cabinetry, crown molding, and even quirky features like old telephone nooks. These touches give each home personality, and that’s what I love most.
It’s like living in a work of art—every time I walk through my front door, I feel the warmth and uniqueness of a home that has stood the test of time.
3. A Strong Sense of Community Living in a historic neighborhood means being part of a community that cares. Neighbors here aren’t just people who live nearby—they’re friends who come together for porch parties, block events, and holiday parades. There’s a sense of belonging that’s hard to find in newer developments. In fact, I think that’s what makes these areas so special—the people who live here share a passion for preserving the beauty and integrity of their homes, and that creates a tight-knit, supportive community.
Whether it's lending a hand with a renovation project or swapping stories about the history of our homes, there's always a strong sense of camaraderie.
4. Walkability and Urban Vibe While the homes may be rooted in history, the neighborhoods are alive with energy and modern conveniences. Living in the Urban Core means having the best of both worlds—old-world charm paired with the excitement of urban living. I can walk to local cafes, grab dinner at a neighborhood favorite, or spend a day browsing the shops in the nearby Paseo District. The walkability is one of the biggest perks of living in these historic neighborhoods. Everything I need is just a short stroll away, and I get to enjoy the beauty of my surroundings along the way.
5. It’s Where My Passion for Real Estate Thrives As a real estate broker specializing in luxury and historical homes, living in a historic neighborhood keeps me connected to my passion. There’s nothing quite like helping clients fall in love with the same things I love—the rich history, the unique architecture, and the sense of living somewhere that tells a story. Being part of the Urban Core allows me to offer clients firsthand experience and knowledge, guiding them through the process of finding their own piece of history.
Final Thoughts Living in one of OKC’s historic neighborhoods isn’t just about owning a home—it’s about being part of something bigger. It’s about celebrating the past while enjoying all the modern amenities and vibrant culture the Urban Core offers.
If you’re looking for a place with soul, where history meets contemporary life, these neighborhoods are the heart of Oklahoma City—and I’m proud to call them home.
