Chris Gmyr

Older homes have a lot of character, and are usually a smart buy. Even if the home could use a little repair, the majority of older homes are still in great condition.

There are a few pitfalls you should be aware of when purchasing an older property. Although many homes stand up well over time, some can develop serious problems. One of the most common issues in older homes occurs in the roof. If shingles fall off, or are in need of replacement, moisture can get into the main part of the roof and cause serious damage. If the roof appears to be sagging, or if you notice that the wood along underside of the roof, where it comes off from the front of the home, is in poor condition, have a home inspector take a closer look. Another sign is discoloration in the ceilings or walls within the home; this cold mean that there has been water damage from a leaking roof.

One of the most costly problems an older home can have a defect in the foundation. Cracks, bulges and indentations can be the warning signs of serious problems. Foundation repair is a long, complicated and expensive process. You might be better off letting that home go, and looking for another property you like.

The floors of an older home should also be examined closely. Current building codes state that floor support beams can only be a foot or two apart. In older homes, however, there might be four or five feet between each beam. This can lead to serious sagging and warping in the floor boards, and fixing this problem can be costly.

Like the roof, wooden exterior walls need to be covered with a protective coat of paint to keep them in good condition. If the exterior goes too long between paint jobs, or if a termite or carpenter ant problem develops, there can be a mass amount of damage to the wood. Replacing siding is an expensive repair. Check for “soft” or “crumbly” looking wood, especially along the lower edges and sides of the home.

Electrical systems are another problem area in many older homes, and they can be very difficult to detect. Faulty wiring is the cause of the majority of residential fires. You might also run into problems with ill-fitting outlets or too small of a power supply for modern usage. A home inspector will check for any obvious wiring problems, but you will want to be cautious when doing any repairs or remodeling. Also, if lights or outlets begin to flicker or seem to not be working correctly, call a certified electrician.

Many older homes also have inefficient windows and insulation. You may also be facing doors that do little to keep the home insulated. While making a large home more efficient can be costly and may not be essential to your ability to life in the home, it will save you a significant amount on your utility bills.