Considering buying an old house and are wondering how to best weigh the advantages and disadvantages? Read on!
Buying an old house is a tricky decision. On the one hand, you need to be prepared for the extra work that comes with owning an older home. On the other hand, you’re getting a more unique home that reflects the era it was built in. Deciding which route to take is not easy. However, there are some factors that can help you weigh the pros and cons of buying an old house. Here are some reasons why you might want to buy an old house and what to expect if you do so.
Pros of Buying an Old House
When you buy an old house, chances are it’s a unique design that has more character than something modern, built more cheaply and with economies of scale in mind. Though modern materials are impressive, it’s tough to beat the thick lumber used to structure old houses. There’s a reason people say old houses “have “good bones!”
Buying an old house is also potentially a great investment that will increase in value. That’s particularly true if the home is in a historic district and/or has a desirable location close to restaurants, shops, and good schools.
In many cases, older houses have more land which is a very important consideration for many buyers. Room to spread out, plant a garden, store toys for kids and adults alike (fishing boat, anyone?), or build additional structures are all potential benefits of an old house.
For example, the roof structure may be in great shape, but if the shingles are old you may need to reroof. If it’s a metal roof, it may have a longer lifespan. Always check the age and condition of the roof before buying. We are always happy to assist with a free roofing estimate.
The Cons of Buying An Old House
There are cons to buying an old house, as well. Buying an old house is not without its fair share of risk.
For example, you might have to spend more time and money on home maintenance. This is because many older homes were built before the invention of central heating and may not be insulated as well as newer homes. Additionally, it’s likely there are no roof warranties or other guarantees.
The pipes are also generally made out of copper or something other than PVC and PEX, which means they’ll need at some point before you run into serious problems.
You should also be prepared for surprises when you into an old home. This can mean anything from a leaky roof to, again, issues with plumbing or electrical wiring.
When is an Old House Worth It?
Some people like the aesthetic of an old house. This is because older homes often have unique features that make each home different from the next. And if you’re interested in architectural history, buying an old house is a great opportunity to learn about local history and the era your home was built in.
Many people who buy old houses enjoy the challenge of renovating a rundown house into a beautiful home that they can be proud of. It’s not always easy work, but it can be rewarding when you see the results!
What’s Best For You?
If you’re a homeowner who enjoys a challenge, enjoys restoring an old house, cares about the “charm” that comes with an old house, and has a budget for potential issues down the road, then buying an old house may be a great investment.
But if you’re a homeowner who hates fixing things or doesn’t want to set aside the money to fix potentially expensive issues, it may mak sense to go with newer construction.
So the best way to find out if an old house is right for you is to ask yourself how much time and money you have available. It’s easy to fall in love with a house, we all do it, but make sure you have a financial plan in place that makes sense for you and your goals!
Looking at an Old House in Athens? Get Help from Cecil Roofing Co!
If you’re considering an old house, the roof is almost always among the most important factors impacting the investment. Let us inspect the roof for you, free of charge. We’ll deliver a transparent report that communicates the roof condition and notes any issues. Not sure which roofer to work with? We suggest starting with our How to Choose an Athens Roofing Company Guide and go from there!