Five Things to Know Before Moving into an Old Home

Older homes offer a certain charm and character that can’t be replicated in a new, recently built home. The lived-in feel of a hundred year Victorian is truly unique! But before moving, whether in Los Angeles or Chicago, there are a few things to know. Here are our top five:

1. Consider location. Location can never be changed. Take a good look at the neighborhood surrounding your new, but older, home. Older neighborhoods are often centrally located to town, which makes it an ideal place to live. However, consider the crime rate and quality of schools to get an idea of how this neighborhood has evolved with age.

2. Storage is often limited. If you’ve ever watched House Hunters, buyers are always commenting on how older homes have smaller closets. It’s true—a hundred years ago people didn’t have as many clothes, shoes and well, junk. Be realistic about how much storage you need and consider whether you have an attic or basement or if you can add armoires and other storage solutions.

3. Get an inspection before buying. An old home has been through a lot of wear and tear. Have a professional inspector come out to look at the plumbing, electric, foundation and all the nooks and crannies to ensure there aren’t any major trouble spots.

4. Consider maintenance cost and labor. For many buying an older home, a fixer-upper is welcome. For some however, a project house is considered a nuisance. Keep in mind the amount of work that your vintage home will require; usually it’s way more than the buyer initially estimates. However, these fixes can be a great investment down the line!