If you are like me, you love an older home. The older the better for me! (Well, in most cases). Plus buying an older home has many rewards. Beautiful architecture, lots of character, and those special features that you can’t find in any other property (Laundry chutes! Sliding doors! Original claw foot bathtub!). Buying an older home also has various advantages. The neighbourhood will already be well-established, so you’ll be able to get a sense of the community, and the trees will likely be grown, providing a visually appealing outer appearance to the property.
However, when you are viewing an older home for sale, there are a few extra things you need to be sure to check.
Needed Replacements
Nothing lasts forever. In any home, there are items that will eventually need to be replaced. The most common include roofing shingles, furnace, water heater, air conditioner, windows, deck and fencing. Not to mention you will need to check that the electrical and plumbing elements are still up to code. When viewing an older property, ask about the age of each of these items. You’ll get an idea of probable upcoming replacement expenses.
Building Issues
Homes were built differently decades ago than they are today. So, there may be issues that need to be addressed by a new owner. Some can be serious, such as water leakage and structural problems. Others, less so, such as old electrical outlets that need to be updated. If there are issues like these, they will likely be identified during the professional home inspection.
Drafts
Drafts are common in older homes. Of course, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be fixed. Even a modest infiltration of air through an old window or door with worn weather-stripping could add hundreds of wasted dollars to your energy bill every year. Look for signs of a draft when viewing a home.
The good news is, the majority of these issues can be easily fixed! Don’t let them dissuade you from buying an older home you have fallen in love with. I love looking through older homes, and have years of experience in dealing with properties of all ages, so let me help you find that house of your dreams!
