Buying Historic or Century Homes: Small Signs of Big Problems
Monday, January 13, 2025
Gothic Revival, Tudor, Queen Anne. If these words spark excitement, you are probably a lover of historic homes! Purchasing a historic home can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour, allowing you to own a piece of history with unique charm and character. However, it also comes with the responsibility of identifying and addressing potential issues associated with older properties. When looking to purchase a historic home, you and your agent should be looking out for these telltale signs to spot potential headaches.
Leaks or Water Damage
Water damage is a common concern in historic homes. Look for water stains on ceilings and walls, as well as peeling paint or wallpaper. These signs may indicate roof leaks, plumbing issues, or foundation problems. Also, many historic homes have basements, and moisture can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage. Proper basement waterproofing may be necessary.
Cracks in the Foundation
Small signs of a cracked foundation in a home can often be subtle but should never be ignored. These indicators may include hairline cracks in the walls, especially near door frames or windows, as well as cracks in the floor tiles or gaps between the floor and baseboards. You might also notice doors and windows that no longer close properly, with difficulty latching or sticking. Uneven or sloping floors, even if only slightly, can be indicative of foundation issues. In some cases, you may observe minor gaps or separations in the exterior brickwork or siding. While these signs may seem minor individually, when combined, they can signal a potential problem with the home's foundation, and it's crucial to have them inspected by a professional to prevent further damage.
Termite Damage
Spotting termite damage in a historic home is essential for preserving its structural integrity. Some telltale signs of termite infestation include wood that sounds hollow when tapped, sagging or damaged floors, and tiny exit holes in wooden surfaces. Additionally, you may come across mud tubes along the foundation or walls, which termites construct as protective pathways. Look out for discarded termite wings near windows or light fixtures, especially during swarming seasons. Termite fecal pellets, resembling tiny grains of rice, may accumulate in infested areas.
Plumbing and sewage
A beautiful aesthetic can be crafted quickly by sellers, but make sure to consider what may be happening behind the walls. Pay attention to the water pressure; low or inconsistent pressure can be a sign of outdated or corroded pipes. Listen for unusual sounds like banging or rattling pipes, which can suggest issues with water hammer or loose connections. Inspect exposed pipes for visible corrosion, rust, or mineral buildup. Faucets that drip or continuously run, toilets that constantly run or don't flush correctly, and slow-draining sinks are all indicators of potential plumbing problems.
Buying a historic home comes with a unique set of challenges. But don’t put your dream to bed before talking to me.
I have been a Real Estate agent for over 3 decades and have helped my clients purchase just about any type and style of home there is. If you are interested in buying a Century or Historic home, give me a call. I will help you find the perfect Historic home for you and your family.
My number is 905-683-7800. Please ask for me, Brian Kondo.
Thanks For Reading Today’s BLOG!
Brian Kondo
Sales Representative / Team Leader
The Brian Kondo Real Estate Team
Re/Max Hallmark First Group Realty Ltd.
905-683-7800 office
905-426-7484 direct
brian@briankondo.com
www.BrianKondo.com
www.BrianKondoTeam.com
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