Portsmouth is a city in Virginia that has a ton of historic homes for rent that have a view of the water. Many of the tall houses, which are built closely to one another, were converted into townhouses which hold one to four families each. Many still find an entire historic home for sale or for rent, and renovate it. Those who love this area may also like the townhouse rentals in Norfolk, VA. Portsmouth has an area that is quite industrial since it holds a Navy Shipyard where Navy vessels are built and fixed. Portsmouth is also a port that ships and received goods. Many find this area simply charming and the houses for rent are as well.