Most old homes have great character, but they occasionally come with some unwanted surprises. If your dream home is over thirty years old, you shouldn't be intimidated by potential issues, but you should be prepared for updates and repairs that may need to be made before you move in.
Old Roofing
In different climates, roofing can have a varied lifespan. Be sure to have your inspector check your roof for proper flashing, and to ensure that there are no leaks. Water damage due to weather is among the top five causes for homeowners insurance claims. Dark stains on the exterior walls, bubbling paint, or staining of the ceiling inside can be signs that there is water damage and the roof may need to be repaired or replaced.
Leaky Pipes
Another top cause for homeowner's insurance claims, plumbing issues like burst pipes or leaking refrigerator lines can cause serious damage. An unnoticed leak can do enough damage to require entire rooms to need replacing. Ask your inspector to check areas where moisture can build, like bathrooms and kitchens, including moving floor covering to check below. Damaged or warped flooring can be a sign of water damage, and it will need to be repaired immediately to avoid any further damage or buildup of toxic mold.
Foundation Issues
If you enter a home and feel off kilter or dizzy, there could be a need for a foundation repair. Crooked doorways, cracking drywall, or sagging ceilings could be a sign of foundation issues. Have your foundation expert take a look to find out the cause and provide an estimate for the possible repairs.
Pests
Mice, ants, and other pests aren't uncommon in most parts of the country. If you see decaying siding, you may want to have a pest-control specialist take a look to check for termites. Likewise, if you hear small footsteps in the attic, it could be raccoons, birds, or a number of different vermin or rodents.
Drafty Windows
Most homes today have double-paned windows with a vinyl base, but that hasn't always been the case. Many older homes still have windows with aluminum bases, and sometimes only single-pane. Check around the windows for mold and mildew, as improper flashing on windows can cause buildup of moisture. If you have aluminum windows without signs of moisture, they may not require an immediate replacement, but it is a worthwhile investment, as it can save on heating and cooling in the future.
While old homes can have issues, they usually come at a better price, and often have unique layouts, and artistic detailing that you don't find in newer homes. If you're looking at purchasing an old home, be prepared for it to need a repair or two, but don't be scared away. Most of these issues, while sometimes inconvenient, are very fixable, and shouldn't discourage you from buying the house of your dreams.
