Top Issues to Look for When Buying an Older Home
There are a lot of great reasons to buy an older home. Sometimes they are more affordable. They have charm and character. And if you believe Chip and Joanna Gaines, there is always some hidden wall with shiplap somewhere near the kitchen.
But before you buy an older home, there are a few potential red flags worth considering.
Check the foundation
Regardless of the age of the home, a house needs a strong foundation. Over time, foundations can shift or crack. Not only is it expensive to fix the foundation itself, but a bad foundation can cause structural problems in the rest of the home. This can open the door to other costly repairs.
Check for old wiring
Depending on the age of the home, its electrical system may not be up to modern electrical codes. This could make it hard to get permits for renovations (if you bought a fixer upper), and it can be a fire risk.
Check for mold and mildew
Water damage is all but inevitable as a home gets older. This opens up the house to the possibility of mold or mildew. The presence of mold and mildew in a home can damage the integrity of the materials and possibly put harmful spores into the air.
Examine the roof
Similar to the foundation, the integrity of the roof is essential for a home to function. No matter how well a roof is built, it will eventually wear out and need to be replaced. This can be a very costly repair, especially right when you buy the home.
Test for old, toxic materials
Homes that were built over fifty years ago run the risk of harboring toxic materials, like lead paint or asbestos. It is worth having a professional test the home for these materials before purchasing it.
Don’t let your dream home become a money pit. Everything on this list can be checked by a trusted professional. And while they are working on the inspection, you can trust the professionals at Kelly Community to help you with your mortgage.
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