Does the prospective home have a security system? If you want one, make a note regarding its installation and approximate cost. Modern systems have battery-powered motion detectors that don’t require hard wiring, but the basic unit itself is wired, which means you need to supply power to it. This might not be a big deal, but it’s one more thing to add to your electrical wish list.
Do all the rooms have heat, either from a central heating system or electric room heaters? Some older homes have ancient heating systems and might only have one heating vent in an upstairs landing rather than heating for each individual bedroom. This means you’ll have the expense of supplying heat either with new ductwork (and probably a new furnace) or by running circuits for electric heating. Old homes offer a certain charm and comfort that are difficult to duplicate in most modern housing. Leaded windows, wide oak entry doors, and crown molding running along the ceilings aren’t common features in new construction. Neither are fuse boxes, tacky wiring repairs, and a shortage of receptacles and lights. Updating an old system will have to be figured into your budget (and ultimately your purchasing considerations) when you start house hunting. Throw in a new roof, plumbing, floor refinishing, and a kitchen addition, and Old World charm takes on an expanded definition—bring money!
No comments:
Post a Comment