Century-old homes bring to mind images of rustic charm, but also of expensive renovations and hidden structural issues. Consequently, many people believe this is a potentially high-risk real estate investment.
It is, however, important not to let fear dissuade you from exploring the possibilities an older construction offers, especially if you hire a qualified company to carry out the pre-purchase inspection.
An Extremely Solid Construction
Firstly, there’s no denying that these homes were built to last! Contrary to popular belief, most ancestral properties were constructed with high-quality materials and great attention to detail. For example, stone as exterior cladding can stay in place for up to 300 years without concern.
Their meticulous construction and their durability are often the reasons why they’ve survived for decades without any major problems. With the right level of maintenance and appropriate renovations, an old home can serve as a safe and comfortable family residence for many years to come.
A Long-Term Investment
Another reason why one shouldn’t feel uneasy about purchasing a heritage home is that it can be an extremely profitable long-term investment. Their historic value and timeless appeal can make them a valuable asset that stands the test of time. Moreover, homes full of charm and character are undeniably highly sought after by buyers, increasing their desirability on the real estate market.
Furthermore, they’re usually located in established neighbourhoods with active and diverse communities. By acquiring a house in this type of environment, you can take advantage of local amenities, including nearby parks, schools and shops. Additionally, historic neighbourhoods can be subject to conservation regulations that protect their aesthetic appeal as well as their property values.
Architectural Features That Are (Probably) Beyond Price
What’s more, century-old homes typically showcase unique styles no longer employed in more recent constructions. Due to the use of high-grade and high-quality materials, the cost of designing an equivalent residence today would be staggering!
From elaborate architectural details to hardwood floors polished by time, every nook and cranny has a story to tell. By investing in an ancestral property, you will have the opportunity to own a piece of history and contribute to its preservation for future generations.
Windows That Can Last Up to 150 Years!
There is a persistent myth out there regarding old homes: they’re very inefficient in terms of energy consumption. In fact, the windows of many houses built over a hundred years ago provide impressive thermal insulation. Plus, they’re quite long-lasting, meaning you can defer replacing them for a bit, depending on the residence’s year of construction.
Renovations That Won’t Necessarily Turn Into a Nightmare
While problems such as needing to replace the electrical wiring system or the presence of asbestos can occur, it isn’t always so. On the contrary, buying an older home presents infinite renovations opportunities to create rooms that suit your needs and lifestyle. It’s not rare to see modern interiors inspired by the charming styles of bygone eras. For example, a bathroom with an antique clawfoot bathtub and copper handles on the cabinets, combined with the latest trend in flooring and ceramics. This juxtaposition of contemporary and rustic is absolutely magnificent!
Good to know: some regions offer restoration and financial assistance programs to support historic house preservation efforts, which can help reduce renovation costs.