There are many reasons why people are attracted to buying older homes. One reason is the charm and character that these homes often have. Older homes often have more intricate details and craftsmanship than newer homes. Another reason people are attracted to older homes is that they are usually cheaper than newer homes. This is especially true if the home needs some work. People willing to put in the work can find a real bargain on an older home.
On the contrary, Home inspection experts in Orange County state that before finalizing people should realize that there are many drawbacks to buying an older home. One is the likelihood that an older home will require outdated features, repair work, and/or ongoing extra maintenance. Older homes are often not as energy-efficient as newer ones, meaning higher utility bills. They may also lack modern amenities that homebuyers have come to expect, such as updated kitchens and bathrooms, central air conditioning, and a garage.
While many people are attracted to the charm and character of older homes, one must be aware of the potential downsides before making an offer. If you’re considering buying an older home, be sure to factor in the cost of any necessary repairs or updates. And be prepared for the possibility that you may need extra work to keep your home in good condition. Let’s look at the most common issues people face when buying such homes.
Substandard Plumbing and Electrical
Many old homes often have their original cast iron pipes and nob-and-tube wiring still in place because updating plumbing and rewiring are two of the most extensive and expensive projects. Hence, both impose safety hazards, as an old electrical system can result in a fire, and corroded pipes can also result in weak water flow and leaks. One tip that can work while purchasing an old home is to evaluate the pipes and wiring and ask when they were last updated. Whereas, if the electrical and plumbing are not updated, you must get a code to estimate how much it will cost to replace them. In the condition where the original home systems are updated, you shall ensure that the wiring and pipes are running efficiently, legally, and safely.
Moreover, you can also do this task if you sign up for a home inspection in Orange County, as a home inspection will be a better option to ensure the house’s safety and life expectancy.
Radon
Radon is a carcinogen created by uranium in soil, rock, and water, breaking down naturally. Radon doesn’t come off as a threat when this happens in nature. Meanwhile, radon can get dangerous for humans if it gets trapped inside a home. It is essential to consider that the houses built before the 1970s can be more susceptible to a radon buildup as this was not in mind while building those houses. Hence, it becomes exceptionally essential for you to conduct a radon test before you plan on purchasing an older home. Radon tests are inexpensive and can take place quickly. If the radon test results in high radon levels, there are also many methods to reduce radon in the indoor house environment.
Foundational Or Structural Concerns
With time, even houses built on solid structures can form unevenness and cracks in the foundation slab. These consequences are dry rot, moisture damage, corrosion, and other risks. Most of the time, hiring the best-certified home inspector to help you inspect the foundation is the best way to identify such problems. A home inspector shall then check for jammed windows and doors, cracked tile, visible wall cracks, and uneven floors, as these are considered the primary and most common signs of foundation problems.
It is also important to realize that not identifying the foundational problems on time can lead to foundation repairs that can cost an arm and a leg (a maximum of $25000), but this indeed depends on how severe is the structural issue. (A reminder: homeowners insurance won’t be covering these costs). If you are concerned with the foundation issues of the house but still want to carry on the purchase, you shall consider negotiating the repair costs, or you can also be accounted for the repair cost if it is within your budget.
Hazardous Materials
Hazardous materials such as asbestos and lead could be components of older homes. Till 1978, in interior and exterior paint, there was an everyday use of lead. And, till the mid-1980s, lead was used within the plumbing system. This lead can then be integrated into the water system and environment, resulting in significant health issues. Furthermore, until the 1970s, asbestos was used in roofing, insulation, gas fireplaces, and wallboard patching compounds. While the 1970s, officials were able to acknowledge the health risks associated with asbestos.
If you have landed on and selected a house built before 1978, you should acknowledge that, most likely, these hazardous materials will also be coming with that house. Hence, before purchasing the home, you may want to investigate the costs of eliminating popcorn ceilings, lead paint removal services, and other materials containing asbestos.
Dysfunctional Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Smoke Alarms
Many states require carbon monoxide and smoke alarms on every home level. If a home features both, they are likely outdated or not working properly. Usually, when looking for a house, you don’t prioritize carbon monoxide and smoke alarms. So it is easy to forget about these, but it is better to ensure they are there and see if they are functioning properly. Once you have decided to buy an older house, it is better to check the detectors and alarms in the entire house and consider upgrading them to a new and more innovative option that is now easily accessible. It is best to place a carbon monoxide detector on your home’s every level and a smoke alarm in every room to ensure optimal safety.
If you’re considering purchasing an old home but are a bit apprehensive about all the red flags, you should hire Orange and South Coast Property Services CA for home inspection services. Our home inspector can highlight any potential problems and also report on whether these issues will be permanent or temporary.