While some people prefer to buy or build a new home, other people are drawn to the older home. Typically, older homes have a certain charm and beautiful characteristics that you cannot find with new homes. However, while older homes such as a “craftsman cottage” or “Victorian two-story” may be incredible architecturally, they might also have hidden problems that could cause significant problems, not to mention money.
For starters, many older homes were built using asbestos. In addition to being used for insulation in the attic, even homes from the early 1970s used asbestos in popcorn ceilings. The problem with asbestos is that when the dust is breathed in, it releases cancer-causing particles. Therefore, depending on the amount of asbestos found in the home, the cleanup could be simple or extremely costly.
Another problem that tends to plague older homes is radon. This substance is a gaseous radioactive element that is highly toxic. The problem is that radon is colorless. With many older homes, rock and dirt located below the home, along with some building materials and even well water can be contaminated. The result is a huge risk to the people living in the home breathing the toxins in.
The good news with asbestos and radon is that it is possible to eliminate the problem. However, as mentioned, the amount of work required and the cost associated with this clean up depends on a number of factors to include level of problem. Therefore, if you have your heart set on buying an older home, you do not have to give up your dream. Instead, once you find a home you are interested in owning, hire an inspector qualified to test for these and other dangerous elements so you know upfront what you are facing.