Find Real Estate Investment Tips That Work for You

There is nothing wrong with buying an older home, with some people even preferring the vintage style of them. That said, you should be on the look out for a few things when you are serious about purchasing an older home.

The Age of the Appliances

One thing that can easily sneak up on you is the age of the appliances in the home. This includes things such as the furnace, water heater, air conditioner, and sump pump. Even though these things may be in working condition, they could be nearing the end of their lifespan and need replacement sooner than you think. Make sure you look at how old these appliances are, and if they are well beyond their lifespan be prepared to replace it soon after buying the home. You could also request credit at closing from the seller to compensate you for the older appliances, but it is not a guarantee.

The Quality of the Windows

It's possible that an older home has windows that are in dire need of replacement. Once again, the windows may still be functional, but not up the standard of modern windows made today. You could have windows that are made with single pane glass, which are not going to be so great when it comes to energy efficiency. You may end up swapping out the windows for new ones shortly after moving in, so be sure to set aside some additional funds for window replacement.

The Kind of Foundation

Older homes were built on many different kinds of foundations, but if the home is still structurally sound, it means the home's foundation is well-built. You do need to be aware that some foundations require more attention than others. Foundations made with old brick may have to be sealed, especially if you live in a region that has a higher than usual water table. Go into the home's basement and take a close at the foundation walls. Is the mortar crumbing? Does it look loose and sandy? It's a sign that foundation repair may be in your future.

With so many things that could be wrong with an older home, it's tough to navigate all of the issues on your own. That is why it helps to work with a real estate agent from a place like Cudd Realty. They have the experience dealing with older homes that they can give you a heads up on any potential problems that they see.