Buying an Older Home

Here are a few issues to be aware of when buying a house over 50 years old.

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If you’re buying a home that’s over 50 years old, there are a few common issues for which you should keep an eye out.

First, check the plumbing system. The older pipes in these homes can sometimes be galvanized and rusted from the inside, which can impact flow and give you a poorer water quality. If this is an issue, you can simply replace the pipes with plastic ones and you’re all good. If your home doesn’t have a septic tank, you should also have a plumber inspect your property’s sewage lines connecting to the street. These pipes are generally cast iron, and they can also clog due to rust, old age, and tree roots. This inspection is relatively quick, easy, and inexpensive.

Next, check the home’s windows for their energy efficiency. Most older homes were built with single-pane windows, and if you don’t replace these with double-pane vinyl windows, you’ll let a lot of heat escape and accumulate dew and condensation, which can stain the wooden frames.

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If your ceiling does contain asbestos, you’re better off hiring a professional to remove it.

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Additionally, be aware that older houses tend to have home plans that aren’t very open, meaning they have lots of little rooms and smaller closets, but not many open spaces.

If you’re thinking of doing any sanding or woodworking to your new house, lead paint is another issue to consider. Lead paint isn’t dangerous unless you sand it down, which causes the lead to become airborne. After 1978, of course, lead paint was outlawed.

If the property has a popcorn ceiling, it could contain asbestos. This is another issue that’s easy to test for, but if your ceiling does contain asbestos, you’re better off hiring a professional to remove it than trying it yourself.

If the home is located in the country, you should get its well tested. Also, check whether the septic tank is large enough and its drain lines are clear. Septic tanks over 50 years old are typically 500-gallon tanks, whereas tanks nowadays hold anywhere from 1,000 to 1,500 gallons.

The bottom line is that older homes have a lot of charm, established landscaping, and—in many cases—are located in good neighborhoods, but you shouldn’t forget about these other things before purchasing one.

As always, if you have questions about this or any other real estate topic, or are thinking of selling a home soon, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I’d be happy to help.