3 Home Problems & Solutions
1. Out Dated Wiring
Almost any home built before 1950 will have knob & tube wiring which will not be able to handle heavy electrical loads and might be corroding. Knob& tube electrical systems may have been installed improperly and could be a fire hazzard. Many insurance companies will not insure the home with knob & tube systems in place.
Fix it!
Electrical systems are difficult to upgrade and cause a big mess. Expect to pay $1000 - $2000 per room the do the upgrade.
2. Electric or Oil Heating
Oil and electric heating systems are more expensive to operate than natural gas heating systems. Electrical baseboard heaters take up valuable space and make furniture placement challenging. Oil tanks can talke up space in the basement or yard. If the house has any sign of a underground oil tank there is a host of issues to deal with that could be very expensive.
Fix it!
A new gas furnace will cost between $3000 - $8000, but will last a long time. You may qualify for government energy efficient upgrade rebates that will offset the initial cost. Duct work to distribute the heat will also have to be installed.
3. Dampness and Mould
Water can get in to your home from the foundation to the roof or anywhere in between. Dampness can cause mould that will rot the home, cause stains and could cause health problems.
Fix it!
A leaky roof could just need a patch or new flashing, but may need to be completely replaced! If your basement is always wet then you may need to have the ground around the exterior of the house graded so that water flows away from the house, but if that doesn't work you may need a new waterproofing system at a cost of $10,000 or more!
It is important to have a qualified home inspector view the home before you purchase it. A home inspector will point out the issues that are above and more!
Morgan Rice
Squamsih Real Estate REALTOR®
604-849-2668
