When buying a new home, many people prefer new construction or newer houses with granite countertops, tile floors, and other upgrades. Many others, however, prefer the personality, charm, and character of older homes. Often, you can find older homes in great areas with lower price tags. Whether you are buying out of necessity or preference, purchasing an older home can be a significant investment.
Typically, when buyers are searching for older or antique homes, they want a place at least 50 years old. Homes that are considered antique date back to the 1920s. Historic homes that must meet strict age and significance requirements are also popular among certain home buyers. Whether the home was built in the 1920s or 1970s, however, age can create several problems in and around a home.
Like most things, there can be some breakdown and deterioration of the structure and the systems as a home ages. As a result, there can be issues with several elements of the home. Fortunately, a home inspection will highlight most problems. However, buying an older home will require some due diligence on the buyer’s part to ensure that there are no surprises. Let’s look at some areas that homeowners should consider when buying an older home.
Major Systems
Components like the roof, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC make up any home’s major systems. These systems make the home livable and allow it to stay operable. These will be the areas where you will want to pay careful attention as they are the house’s most important and most expensive areas. Depending on the age of the home, you might find that you need a completely new HVAC and duct system.
If your HVAC is in working condition, furnace maintenance and furnace filters changes are relatively affordable. Be sure that you get the entire system checked by a qualified HVAC technician. With older houses, a lot of dust and other allergens could have collected in the HVAC system, so it will be important to change out dirty filters often and have a technician test your indoor air quality.
Another area that will probably need some thorough attention will be the roof. It’ll also be a good idea to have a contractor or roofing company look at the roof systems to check for leaks, damaged shingles, or roof deterioration. With older houses, you should prepare for a situation where you might need a new roof. Additionally, you’ll want to have a plumber and electrician come and check out those systems to ensure that everything is in working order and up to current code standards.
Needed Updates
Depending on your appetite for a full blow renovation or remodel, you will probably want to make some changes around the home. Even though many people prefer the style and architecture of an antique house, there are still some updates that homes from the 1920s will probably need. From new bathroom fixtures and countertops to living room paint and flooring, there are several things to consider.
One of the biggest areas that many homeowners focus on is the kitchen. Often an older kitchen needs some updates to make it more functional and open. The kitchen space is a good area to spend money on as it will yield some of the best returns. If you want a custom kitchen or just new cabinets and countertops, you’ll want to find a professional to do quality work. Searching for a “kitchen designer near me” will help you find qualified professionals in your area.
From a new roof and HVAC repair to work associated with fixing each room, the renovation process for an older home can be costly and time-consuming. If you’re planning on buying an old house, you will need to take some time to consider all of the things that have to be done and the things that you want to be done. If you create a budget and stick to it, you can bring your old house back to life.
