Five Things to Know about Buying an Older Home

Richmond, Virginia is full of stunning old homes, some even predating the American Civil War. Below is a list of things to consider when purchasing one of these beautiful, history-filled homes.

Beautifully maintained Ginter Park, in Richmond Va home built in 1890.
Buyers represented by the Linchpin Real Estate Group

1. Maintenance is Key.
   While this is true for every home regardless of age, an older home has details that can be more difficult to replicate. Ensure the columns and intricate window mouldings are properly painted so that rot doesn’t occur. Preventive maintenance is easier than extensive repair.

2. Hire Contractors that Know Old Homes.
   Materials and construction methods are different in older homes. You are dealing with plaster vs. drywall, many walls are not plumb, and the materials may not be available at your big box hardware store. An experienced contractor will know how to work around the challenges that can be present in an older home.

3. Consider Your Home’s Signature Style
   If you plan to renovate, think about staying with the period and style of the home. This doesn’t mean you can’t have a dishwasher, but white shaker cabinets with a farmhouse sink will add to the charm of your 1890’s country cottage.

4. Be Realistic, but Be Safe
   Did we mention the walls, floor, and stairs are sometimes crooked? Old homes are perfectly imperfect. If the floor is sloping, consider having a structural engineer inspect the home prior to purchase. It could be something as simple as settlement, but it is important to know that the cracks in the plaster are not a sign of something bigger.

5. Get Lost in the Details.
   Let yourself fall in love with the character of an older home. The hand-hewn beams in your basement have already stood for many – sometimes hundreds of – years, and come with quite the story. Gingerbread trim, pocket doors, heart pine floors – they really don’t make them like they used to.