One of the more interesting parts of house hunting in the southern Dayton suburbs is deciding what kind of home actually fits your lifestyle: a home with historic character, or a newer build designed around modern layouts and finishes. Centerville and Washington Township each offer a different mix of the two, which makes comparing them a useful exercise for buyers who aren’t sure yet which direction to go.
The Historic Character of Centerville
Centerville has a well-known historic core often referred to locally as Olde Centerville, where older homes and buildings reflect the community’s roots going back well over a century. Buyers drawn to architectural character, mature trees, and an established, walkable feel around the historic district often gravitate toward these older sections of the city, even though it means taking on a home with more history — and sometimes more maintenance — than new construction.
Washington Township’s Mix of Established and Newer Neighborhoods
Washington Township tends to offer a broader mix: established neighborhoods built up over past decades sit alongside newer residential development in areas where land has become available for building. This gives buyers more flexibility to choose between a home with some age and character or a more recently built property, often within the same general area of the township.
What New Construction Tends to Offer
- Open floor plans and layouts designed around modern living
- Newer mechanical systems, insulation, and materials that can mean lower near-term maintenance
- Primary suites, larger closets, and other features common in current home design trends
What Historic and Established Homes Tend to Offer
- Architectural character and craftsmanship that’s harder to replicate in new builds
- Mature landscaping and established, walkable neighborhoods
- Often a more central location relative to a town’s original downtown or business district
Which Might Be Right for You
There’s no universally “better” choice between new construction and a historic or established home — it really comes down to priorities. Buyers who want turnkey, low-maintenance living often lean toward newer builds in Washington Township, while those who value character, walkability, and a sense of place often look toward Centerville’s historic neighborhoods. Many buyers end up considering both towns side by side before deciding, which is a smart approach given how closely they border each other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Centerville have historic homes?
Yes, Centerville has a well-known historic area often called Olde Centerville, featuring homes and buildings with architectural character reflecting the community’s long history.
Is new construction available in Washington Township?
Yes, Washington Township offers a mix of established neighborhoods and newer residential development, giving buyers the option to choose between older and more recently built homes.
Which area is better for buyers who want move-in-ready new construction?
Washington Township tends to have more opportunities for newer construction alongside its established neighborhoods, while Centerville is better known for its historic housing stock, particularly around its Olde Centerville district.
Kelly Nation is a real estate agent with RE/MAX Alliance serving Centerville, Ohio, Washington Township, and the greater Dayton area. Thinking about buying or selling in the area? Reach out to Kelly Nation with RE/MAX Alliance at 937-609-5852 to get started.