I'm considering buying a home built in 1957, which was inherited by a family member. I had an inspection done and found that it needs to be rewired from a two-wire system and requires HVAC installation, which I expected. However, the inspection also uncovered some mold in isolated areas like the roof joists and crawl space, as well as small cracks in the concrete block foundation in the basement. Given that I'm purchasing this home at a lower price, it's important for me to identify any major red flags, especially regarding electrical systems, water damage, and structural issues. What serious concerns should I not overlook when buying an older home like this? And what's the best way to further inspect the structural and mold issues?
3 Answers
Honestly, lots of houses have some mold or minor foundation cracks, especially older ones. Just be cautious. Red flags for me would include a rotten roof, serious structural damage, or things like radon and pest problems. Those are the big ones to watch out for.
Every house has its quirks. As long as the cracks aren’t getting worse, you should be alright. Just keep an eye on them.
You should definitely keep an eye on structural issues like significant cracks in the foundations or around the windows. Always have your sewer lines scoped, too. It’s crucial for older homes! Also, check if there’s a proper grounding system in the electrical box. If it’s been flipped, ensure permits were pulled to see that the work was respected.
That sewer scope advice is gold! I had drainage issues from poorly aligned pipes that led to major backups right after moving in.
No flips here; it was built by my family, so I know it’s been maintained. I’m going to invest in getting the electrical rewired since it’s all knob and tube.
Without seeing the house, it's tough to give specific advice, but if you're unsure about the inspection details, get an expert to take another look. They can spot problems that might cost you a lot down the line, especially if there are lots of deferred repairs. Ignoring small issues could lead to bigger headaches.
Is it on a slab or does it have a crawl space? It’s important to check the foundation thoroughly, especially in wet areas.
The inspector noted the foundation cracks were likely due to settling, but I’m keeping an eye on them since they're not in the report.
I've got a bit of settlement cracking but overall, the foundation looks solid. The exterior is brick and has held up well, so that’s a plus.