For many buyers, a resale property may provide some key advantages, including traditional layouts, established neighborhoods and larger lots. Depending on the state of the building, your money may go further buying a resale. Moreover, there are opportunities to make the place your own as well as more room to negotiate a sale price. The charm of an older house can be quite irresistible, but there are several things to look for as you house hunt.

Foundation, Foundation, Foundation

One of the biggest issues to check for with older homes is the foundation. It is literally the foundation of the structure. Foundation damage can compromise the safety and structural integrity of the house. Settlement cracks are to be expected and a good home inspector can confirm that they pose no problems. Major foundation repair on the other hand, must be addressed and repair can be quite expensive. If you find an older house that you love, consider factoring in the cost to repair when it’s time to negotiate. An expert on concrete slab Tulsa OK can provide guidance on the best solution.

Old Building Materials

Houses that were built before a certain year may have been built with materials that are now banned. Two common examples are lead paint and asbestos. These were commonly used in properties built before the 80’s and 90’s respectively, but have since been found to be the source of serious and even deadly health conditions. It is essential that you pay for a thorough home inspection that includes testing to confirm the presence of lead paint and asbestos, not just for safety but also for compliance.

Pest Infestations

Older buildings are often a gathering place for pests, including rats, mice and bugs. Certain health hazards are posed or exacerbated by the presence of pests, including certain viruses, foodborne illnesses and respiratory conditions. Termites pose a special danger in old houses that are made of wood. Their presence may be an indication of major damage to the structure, requiring significant repairs to avoid dangerous living conditions. An infestation of other types of insects may also be a sign of water damage which may cause mold.

When it’s time to find a new residence, older resale properties can be quite appealing. Often they have character with an interesting history and architecture. These older houses can also include their fair share of issues that may require expensive repairs. A home inspection becomes especially important for assessing the structure’s condition and bringing serious problems to light.