Going from a new house to an old.

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ZWICK 4 PREZ's avatar

ZWICK 4 PREZ

Senior Member

7,733 posts
Aug 2, 2011 9:05 AM
There's an old brick tudor home for sale that I've always liked, but it was built in 1928. The house we're at now was built in 2006. The old tudor needs obvious cosmetic updating in appliances and bathrooms and kitchen, but would you be getting yourself in to a lot of other issues being 1928? That's pretty old. I haven't looked through it yet to see the basement walls or structure. That old Tudor just has a lot more character than the cookie cutter we live in now.
Aug 2, 2011 9:05am
justincredible's avatar

justincredible

Nick Mangold

32,056 posts
Aug 2, 2011 9:09 AM
We live in a house built in 1909 and it hasn't had any issues due to age. We've done some work to it, and have plans for a bunch more, but it isn't work that is necessary. Just stuff we want to do. Mostly remodeling bathrooms and kitchen.
Aug 2, 2011 9:09am
LJ's avatar

LJ

Senior Member

16,351 posts
Aug 2, 2011 9:10 AM
Structure is probably fine, but you need to make sure the electrical and the plumbing have been updated. Also it is most likely going to have plaster walls
Aug 2, 2011 9:10am
ZWICK 4 PREZ's avatar

ZWICK 4 PREZ

Senior Member

7,733 posts
Aug 2, 2011 9:13 AM
I updated the electrical and plumbing at my first house. The problem is obviously the 2nd level unless you want to tear the floor up. I'd be willing to bet it has not been updated.
Aug 2, 2011 9:13am
Scarlet_Buckeye's avatar

Scarlet_Buckeye

Senior Member

5,264 posts
Aug 2, 2011 11:28 AM
Closet space is usually a huge issue in older homes. They are typcially more of a money pit but yes, they do have more character.

Obviously, you'll need a good home inspection on it.
Aug 2, 2011 11:28am
Ironman92's avatar

Ironman92

Administrator

49,363 posts
Aug 2, 2011 11:30 AM
Yeah, check it out or have it checked out real good. The old homes have the zest......but usually downfalls to go with it.
Aug 2, 2011 11:30am
F

fan_from_texas

Senior Member

2,693 posts
Aug 2, 2011 11:30 AM
The wiring is often an issue, but that's probably something you can handle. As mentioned above, closet space can be a big concern. Also, room size in general can be tough if you're moving furniture--rooms used to be much smaller than they are now.

Also, be aware that older homes may have disproportionately higher heating/cooling costs, and it may be worthwhile to have an energy audit done to make sure you're as insulated as possible.
Aug 2, 2011 11:30am
Ironman92's avatar

Ironman92

Administrator

49,363 posts
Aug 2, 2011 11:31 AM
yeah....the insulation is often almost a joke
Aug 2, 2011 11:31am
Ironman92's avatar

Ironman92

Administrator

49,363 posts
Aug 2, 2011 11:32 AM
Beware the 1950's refrigerator! lol
Aug 2, 2011 11:32am
Belly35's avatar

Belly35

Elderly Intellectual

9,716 posts
Aug 2, 2011 11:38 AM
The wife and I have always purchase older homes (curb appeal resale)
They are more work and need updating… However if done right and with a degree of creativity the old home can provided spaces living and modern benefits.
Aug 2, 2011 11:38am