As lovely as a sparkling new home is, there’s nothing quite like the charm and character of an older house.

From exposed beams to tall ceilings and original fireplaces, there’s a lot to love about the countless older homes dotted around Australia. So much so, that it’s easy to feel a little guilty about wanting to spruce the place up a bit.

But you can stop with all that right here. Just because you love one feature, doesn’t mean you can’t make tasteful updates that remain true to the home’s personality. Plus, keeping a character home in top condition is one surefire way to help that resale value.

Here are a few practical ways to maintain your humble abode’s character when it comes to a little home improvement.

Identical replacements

There may be some areas that you already know can’t be saved. It could be your stair railings, ironwork, or even your windows.

In this scenario, remember that you can replace elements with new materials in the exact same style, so you can keep that gorgeous aesthetic without worrying about your stairwell collapsing on you.

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Forget about perfect

Character homes aren’t usually perfect. Leave it that way.

So long as your contractor gives it the tick of approval for safety, those wonky lines and slightly irregular crown moldings can stay looking a little skew-whiff, and keep on adding plenty of personality.

Update don’t replace

There will almost certainly be areas that desperately need an update.

Draughty windows are a prime example, which can lose you cash in heating and cooling your home. Instead of outright replacing them, talk to your contractor about simply upgrading the insulation so you can keep that original look without the slight breeze.

Be brave and add character

Don’t be afraid to add new features here and there that match the original character of your home. You may be able to find door knobs, tiles, light fixtures, and other features that will look right at home once you install them.

Once they’re in, you’ll quickly forget they weren’t part of the original in the first place.

RELATED: 5 ways to revamp your bathroom without a full renovation

Accept the inevitable

High use areas are typically the first to show wear and tear and the first to start falling apart at the seams. We’re looking at you bathrooms and kitchens.

It’s likely your upgrades will include bathroom renovations and a new kitchen design, in which you’ll be replacing many of the room’s features. Accept this inevitable change, but consider ways to reintroduce character with all new fixtures.

You’ll find that some shops feature beautiful arched tabs, claw-footed bathtubs, antique-style mirrors, and other inherently charming home décor pieces. Adding a few of these elements to your interior design scheme will replace any charm you sadly had to part with.

Work with a contractor who’s done it all before

We guarantee you’re not the first person to renovate their little slice of real estate without losing its character. Ask around, and sooner or later, you’ll come across a contractor who has worked on a similar project and can bring all that knowledge and experience into your project for some serious handyperson advice.

Ready to make a start? Reach out to a contractor near you for quotes, and to see if they can help with your specific project.