Last year, my husband and I fell in love and purchased an almost 50-year-old house. Buying an older home is a rewarding experience but can also come with many challenges. Here are some lessons we learned during the homebuying and renovation process.

Get an inspection: Do as much research as possible before purchasing an older home. A thorough home inspection should be at the top of your list to check the home’s condition and uncover any hidden problems that may not be immediately visible.
Hire an excellent inspector who can identify several potential problems in the home. Talk to someone who will be upfront and honest about necessary repairs and upgrades.

Plan financially for maintenance and repairs: There’s no avoiding reality. An older home costs lots of money to renovate. They often have outdated electrical systems, plumbing problems, or structural issues. Be prepared for unexpected repairs and renovations.
Older homes sometimes require more maintenance than newer homes. For example, you may have to replace old appliances, make cosmetic updates, and address potential issues with the roof, foundation, or windows.

Research the Neighborhood: Before buying an older home, it’s essential to research the neighborhood to ensure it’s a good fit for your lifestyle and needs. Look for information about crime rates, local schools, and the overall quality of life in the area. My husband and I visited our potential neighborhood at different times and days of the week. We wanted to see who was there during the day and night, if the neighbors were loud or messy, or if there was a lot of traffic in the area.

Emotional Attachment: I immediately fell in love with my home the first day I saw it. That was probably not the best way to feel because I became blind to all the house’s problems. Older homes present lots of history, character, and charm. It’s easy to get swept up in the emotions of homebuying. It is important to approach the purchase with realistic expectations and consider it an investment.

You become more knowledgeable: The past few months of renovations and repairs have given me a better understanding of the design and history of my home. I’ve seen its inner workings from top to bottom, and now I have valuable knowledge for maintaining and improving my home for future projects.
Renovations can also allow you to learn new skills, such as carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work, which can be both useful and fulfilling.

Overall, buying an older home can be a significant investment, but it is crucial to be prepared for the challenges that come with it.

By keeping these lessons in mind, you can make an informed decision about whether buying an older home is right for you and avoid costly surprises down the line.