Buying an old house in Boston can offer a number of advantages over buying a brand-new property. While it may save you a considerable amount of money, an old house can easily bring with it a number of different issues that you may not be prepared for. Here are things you must watch out for when buying an old house in Boston.
Inefficient windows
Older homes typically come equipped with single-pane windows, which are not energy efficient and fail to hold much heat within. This usually leads to leaks and panes to rot in the longer run. This also results in a rather hefty heating bill should you happen to have an old heating system.
A house in Boston needs to have windows that seal properly to keep the warmth in during those cold winters. So, make sure you check these out carefully.
Structural problems
With older homes, it is even important for you to hire a qualified home inspector and have the property inspected. It is wise to simply walk away in case there are obvious issues with the structure of the property. After all, dealing with issues with the foundation can set you back by a significant amount of money. Instead, you could invest your time and finances looking for another house in Boston that offers more value for money.
Pest problems
When buying an old house in Boston, you must watch out for termites. These bugs can chew through the surface of wooden walls and flooring, thereby causing a lot of damage to the property. You must hire a professional termite inspector in case you notice any leakages or chipped wood along the walls or flooring.
Outdated heating systems
If the house you are looking at happens to have been built at least 100 years ago, it may not have sufficiently well-maintained heating systems. This is not only inconvenient, but also poses a serious fire hazard. It could potentially be the reason why you may have to give up buying an otherwise perfectly good-looking house, but it is sensible to put your safety first.
If you want to buy a house in Boston and not make the mistake of buying something you might regret, it would be wise to work with an agent who knows the area well and can guide you towards making a well-informed decision.
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