An older Santa Cruz home can offer a lot more charm and character than the newer houses of today. They boast gabled roofs, crown moldings, hardwood floors and antique fixtures. Buying an old house is like buying a piece of local history. Its beautiful period features can give it a timeless beauty and grace that is hard to resist.
However, sometimes buying a house from another era is an endeavor fraught with potential problems. Older houses are not necessarily built to the same electrical or plumbing standards of today. If they have not been maintained correctly through the years, they can turn into a serious money pit or a potential hazard.
Here are six tips that you should keep in mind if you are considering buying an older Santa Cruz home:
1. Always hire a professional real estate inspector to take a close look at the property. A professional inspector is trained to spot structural damage or issues that might seem minor, but could cause major problems later on.
2. Look out for any signs of moisture damage. Many old houses have problems with moisture because over the years they have settled.
3. If the old house you are considering has vintage wiring, such as the knob-and-tube technology that was popular around the 1920s and ‘30s, it will need to be completely updated for safety.
4. You might need to add insulation to an older house. Many older houses don’t have insulation in the walls or attic, which can really increase the size of your energy bill.Â
5. Another thing to look out for are iron pipes, which were popular up until 1940. They can become clogged with rust and may need to be replaced.
6. Make sure you have the house tested for asbestos if it was built before the 1960s.
These are just a few things to watch out for whenever you are buying an older Santa Cruz home. Take time to inspect the property thoroughly. Mix modern technology with your house’s beautiful period features to enjoy its charm — as well as safety.
If you’re interested in purchasing an older property, please call me at 831.662.6522 or email me at Lauren@LaurenSpencer.com for additional information.
For additional real estate information, please visit my home page at www.MySantaCruzRealEstate.com.
Links:
Professional Real Estate Inspector
Add Insulation
Things to Watch Out For
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