It’s Free to Look: 13 East 94th Street

Newfangled electrical devices can be useful, but they certainly aren't elegant. This "classic" townhouse is so turn-of-the-century, you'll be startled every morning when you step outside and your driver doesn't pick you up in a horse and buggy.

Typically, when a listing advertises "wood-burning fireplaces," it doesn't mean they're the house's only method of generating heat. That was the case at this $15.5 million property until "recently," when the building was renovated to include "state of the art technology" such as an "elevator" and "plumbing."

It's important to remember, when you're trekking up the "graciously ascending" staircase, that, according to the Sotheby's listing, the house's design is "timeless." There are some things in this world—wrought-iron detailing or a Georgian Revival façade, for instance—that are more important than modern conveniences. It's almost a shame the place was renovated: Luxury exists in an inverse proportion to access to running water. — William Alden