What to Look for When Buying an Older Ohio Home

When buying a home in Cuyahoga or Medina County, you essentially have two choices— buy a newer home or an older home. Many are drawn to the character of older homes, especially the neighborhoods in which they sit, but don’t be too quick to sign on the dotted line. There are a few factors to watch out for when buying an older home in Ohio and some you’ll be glad you researched before you make that purchase.

Termites and Bugs
Termites and other bugs tend to flock to older homes and are known to chew through wood, flooring and oftentimes wallpaper. In fact, every year, termites are responsible for over $5 billion in property damage according to the National Pest Management Association. Before you buy a home in Ohio, one that has been around for quite a while or known to have leaks, it might be wise to hire a termite inspector.

Lead Paint
Lead paint could be found in your home if it was built before 1978, when the paint was banned. But don’t stress too much if your Ohio home was built in the years before, many homes built before 1978 did avoid lead paint for the health risks. Lead paint can be found around windows, doors, trim and painted floors and if you believe you have cause for concern, you can hire a lead inspector to take a look at your Medina County home.

Energy Leaks
Many homeowners in Brunswick, Hinckley, Strongsville, Medina and Valley City are renovating their properties, putting in energy-efficient appliances and windows. Older homes were typically built with single-pane windows that do not hold in heat and often have faulty panes and dilapidated sills. If your heating system is also old, you could be spending much more than necessary in energy bills.

Foundation Issues
Older homes are more likely to have structural or foundation issues and hiring a home inspector is the only way you will know how serious they are. However, if you do find a problem with the home’s foundation, that could be reason enough to walk away.

BOLD Real Estate Consultants can help you find the home you’re looking for in today’s real estate market. Contact us today for a list of available homes, old or new, in Medina, Valley City, Columbia Station, North Royalton, Brunswick, Hinckley and Strongsville.

Sajag Patel
BOLD Real Estate Consultants
440-879-7260

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