Many people think that buying a new house has many advantages over buying an old house. These days, as the cost difference between new and old houses narrows, the question becomes more relevant. What kind of pros and cons do you see when thinking about buying an old house?
Let’s say, for example, that you’re looking for homes for sale in Mooresville and you’re trying to decide whether or not to buy this beautiful yet old-fashioned Mooresville real estate. To help you decide, here are some positives with buying an older home:
1. Old-style construction: One of the beautiful things about old houses is the amount of meticulous work that went into them. You will find many old houses that are still standing and are still beautiful precisely because of the craftsmanship that was used in them. Old-fashioned curb appeal, when further enhanced with regular maintenance, can really give a home a certain charm that shows. Old-fashioned architecture in the popular styles of the time also has a lot more character. There really is something special about owning a classically beautiful home.
2. Live near long-term neighbors: Older homes often come with long-term neighbors who grew up in the community. It’s a good environment, family oriented and often safer.
3. Some measure of security in terms of neighborhood changes: If you buy a house in an old neighborhood, chances are the zoning changes won’t change much over the years. This means that if you live in an older, mostly residential neighborhood, too many commercial establishments are unlikely to be thrown into the mix. Especially since they don’t do very well in the old neighborhoods.
4. Spacious patios: Most of the old-style houses have houses built on large patios. This is because land was cheaper years ago. Having so much space can mean a lot to you. It could mean extra space for kids and pets to play, or an extra garage or extension to the house, a gazebo, or maybe even an extra building for a separate office or library.
If there are positive points, there are also some drawbacks when buying an old house.
1. Continuous maintenance. – As with any type of house, older houses require maintenance. Because they are old and many of the systems and materials used may no longer be available, maintenance can be more expensive than usual.
2. Repairing systems can be more expensive. – If there is something that needs to be replaced in the wiring, plumbing and the like, it can be more expensive because the system is different from newer ones.
3. Smaller cabinets. – Older-style homes tend to have smaller closet spaces to accommodate larger bedrooms and garages.
4. They tend to be more expensive than new houses: Older houses are often located near schools, mass transportation and other important establishments. As such, they can be more expensive than new homes.