Homes by Sears and Roebuck

 By Bruce Shawkey

Once upon a time, it was possible to order a complete assembled house from Sears and Roebuck. 

Here is one such example from a 1908 catalog. Yes, Sears once sold kit homes through their catalogs, allowing customers to purchase homes that were delivered in parts for assembly. This innovative approach began in the early 1900s and continued until the 1940s, making homeownership accessible to many Americans.

Overview of Sears Kit Homes

Sears kit homes were a significant part of American housing history.

Catalog Sales — Sears offered a variety of home designs through their catalogs, allowing customers to choose and order homes directly.

Precut Lumber — The homes were made from precut lumber, which simplified the construction process.

Historical Impact — Over 70,000 Sears homes were sold, contributing to suburban development in the U.S..

Lasting Legacy — Many of these homes still exist today, blending into neighborhoods.