How to Find a Mid-Century Modern Home in Utah (Without Losing Your Mind)

Let’s be honest—finding a true mid-century modern home in Utah can feel like hunting for vintage Eames chairs at a garage sale: totally worth it, but not always easy.

As someone who’s lived in and loved mid-century homes—from a Cliff May classic in Long Beach to a Ron Molen gem in Farmington—I get it. Whether you're dreaming of a sleek mid-century house with walls of glass or an MCM home with original charm, the key isn’t just where you’re looking. It’s how—and who you’re looking with.

So let’s talk about how to actually find that dream-worthy mid-century modern architecture home here in Utah.

1. Know What You're Looking For

Mid-century modern comes in many flavors. Are you into:

  • Mid-century contemporary homes with open layouts and minimalist lines?

  • Classic MCM houses with post-and-beam construction and clerestory windows?

  • Or a slightly updated mid-century home with modern amenities that still honors the original architecture?

Knowing your style helps narrow the search—and helps me, as your agent (*crosses fingers), know exactly what to target.

2. Understand Where MCM Homes Are Hiding in Utah

Spoiler alert: You won't find mid-century modern homes on every block. But there are neighborhoods that have strong pockets of authentic architecture, especially around:

  • Salt Lake City (especially West Valley City, Sugar House, Yalecrest, and Millcreek)

  • Holladay and Olympus Cove

  • Ogden and Provo’s historic areas

  • Farmington and Bountiful for larger lots and custom builds

A knowledgeable agent (👋 hi, that’s me) can help pinpoint where these homes were built between the 1940s–70s…and which ones still retain their MCM soul.

3. Look Past the Photos—Know the Bones

Many true mid-century homes in Utah haven’t been fully restored. Some are time capsules, some are partially updated, and some need thoughtful design to bring them back to life.

That’s where it helps to have someone who:

  • Understands mid-century modern architecture

  • Can spot a valuable structure beneath bad carpet and weird tile

  • Knows what renovations will honor the home’s history (and which ones…won’t)

I’ll walk you through what’s worth updating, what can stay, and what affects the value of the home.

4. Be Prepared to Move Fast

Mid-century homes in Utah sell quickly—especially the well-preserved ones. That’s why I keep close tabs on every MCM home that hits the market (and a few that haven’t yet). I also post regularly on @MidModUtah, so followers get first looks at mid-century homes for sale across Utah.

5. Work With Someone Who Lives This Life

Here’s the truth: you can scroll real estate apps all day, but if you’re not working with someone who knows mid-century homes, you might miss the one that’s perfect for you.

As the founder of @MidModUtah, I’ve built a business—and a lifestyle—around connecting people with homes that inspire.

Before real estate, I spent 15 years in commercial property management in California, which gave me a love of structure, contracts, and the fine details. But it wasn’t until I owned a Cliff May–designed home that I really felt what good design can do for your life.

Now? I live in a Ron Molen masterpiece and spend my days helping clients find homes with soul.

So, How Do You Find a Mid-Century Home in Utah?

  • Partner with someone who knows the architecture, the neighborhoods, and the lifestyle.

  • Partner with someone who’s obsessed with this stuff.

  • Partner with @MidModUtah.

Ready to start your search? Reach out here or follow along on Instagram @MidModUtah for listings, tours, and tips on living your best mid-century life.

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Robert Bliss: The Quiet Genius Who Elevated Modern Design in Utah

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Don LaMonte Earl: A Utah Modernist Who Brought Light, Glass, and Optimism to Architecture