Top 10 Things to Check Before Buying an Older Home

So, You’re Eyeing an Older Home?
The charm of a classic home can be irresistible. The stained glass windows, the ornate woodwork, and those high ceilings are enough to make anyone swoon. But hold your horses! While older homes can be treasures, they often come with a few skeletons in the closet (and no, we don’t mean the Halloween kind). Before you dive into that dreamy fixer-upper, there are a few essential checks you need to make to ensure you aren’t buying into a money pit. Let’s break down the top 10 things you need to inspect before buying an older home.

1. The Roof – Is It Holding Strong?

Nothing says “money drain” quite like a leaking roof. Older homes often come with older roofs, and it’s important to know how many good years are left in it. Climb up or hire a professional to check for missing shingles, water damage, and wear and tear. Even if you’re not a roofing expert, looking out for any sagging or buckling can give you a clue that a new roof might be in your near future.

2. Foundation – The Home’s Backbone
A solid foundation is literally the backbone of any home. But, over time, soil movement and wear can cause cracks or shifting. Use a flashlight to check the basement for signs of moisture, large cracks, or uneven flooring. If the home has a crawl space, give it a look too. Don’t be afraid to call in an expert if anything seems off. After all, the foundation holds everything up – and we mean everything.

3. Plumbing – Drip, Drip, $$$
Older homes can come with aging plumbing systems. Are the pipes copper, PVC, or even (yikes) lead? Turn on all the faucets, flush the toilets, and check for leaks, water pressure, and discoloration. Fixing outdated plumbing can get costly, so it's crucial to know what you’re dealing with upfront.

4. Electrical Wiring – Don’t Get Shocked
Homes built in the early 20th century often have wiring that doesn’t meet modern safety standards. Outdated wiring, like knob-and-tube, can be dangerous, and if the home’s circuit breaker hasn’t been updated, you could be in for some major expenses. Use a circuit tester and inspect the electrical panel. If you see fuse boxes instead of circuit breakers, that’s a sign the electrical system is due for an upgrade.

5. Insulation – Is It Up to Snuff?
Older homes weren’t always built with energy efficiency in mind. Check the insulation in the attic, walls, and basement. If you notice that the house is drafty or the heating bills are astronomical, that could be a red flag that you’ll need to beef up the insulation (and your wallet). Good insulation is key to keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient.

6. Windows – Drafty or Delightful?
Antique windows might look beautiful, but they can also be energy hogs. Are they single-pane or double-pane? Do they seal properly? Warped or cracked windows can drive your heating and cooling bills through the roof. While it’s possible to replace the windows (or even restore older ones), it’s important to factor those costs into your buying decision.

7. HVAC Systems – Hot or Not?
An older home might come with an equally old HVAC system. Is the furnace from the Nixon era? The AC unit from Y2K? Find out how old these systems are and check when they were last serviced. Replacing a furnace or air conditioner can run you thousands of dollars, so if they’re on their last leg, you’ll want to know before you make an offer.

8. Water Damage – The Silent Creeper
Water is the enemy of homes, and older homes can have hidden water damage that’s hard to spot at first glance. Check the basement, attic, and around windows for signs of water stains, mold, or mildew. A moisture meter can help you detect dampness in the walls or floors. Mold remediation can be costly, so be sure to investigate thoroughly.

9. Termite or Pest Damage – Don’t Let It Bug You
Older homes can be a haven for pests like termites, carpenter ants, and rodents. These critters can cause structural damage that isn’t always visible right away. Look for signs of wood damage, droppings, or hollow-sounding wood. If there’s any indication of an infestation, call in a pest control expert for an inspection. The last thing you want is to share your home with a bunch of uninvited guests.

10. Lead Paint and Asbestos – Old-School Dangers
Many older homes were built before we understood the dangers of materials like lead paint and asbestos. If the home was built before 1978, there’s a good chance it could contain lead-based paint, which can be harmful if not handled properly. Asbestos is another concern, especially in insulation or older floor tiles. If you suspect either of these, hire a professional to test the home and ensure it’s safe.

Final Thoughts
While buying an older home can be an exciting opportunity to own a piece of history, it’s important to go into it with your eyes wide open. By checking these 10 key areas, you can avoid any nasty surprises and ensure that your dream home doesn’t turn into a nightmare. Remember, La Vaca General Contractors are here to help if you find that your new (but old) home needs some TLC. We specialize in general contracting and remodeling in Morris, Essex, Bergen, and Union counties, including towns like Roseland, West Orange, Verona, Madison, Cedar Grove, Morris Plains, Morristown, and Parsippany.