OK, empty lots just jumps in to my head this morning.

But there is no real history search on that in a data base, have you talked to some of the local historical groups in your area. Have you researched it at the local library and newspaper offices.

When where houses first built here?

That may be available if you go to the building and code permit department ( city or county) and see when various permits were issued for building.

Next if you search the tax records you will see when the proeprty taxes increased from empty land to buildings.

Also check with the recorder of deeds as to who owned the property previously and do checks on the families that owned the property