Historic Homeownership: Is It Right for You?

Old homes are filled with charming details and touches that give them a fascinating appeal. Older Mansfield homes for sale conjure images of strong communities and simpler times. Each home is a reflection of the builder's interests and the style of the era. While purchasing an older home can give you a truly distinctive property, it can also come with unique challenges that you can't ignore.    

Historic Charm in Every Room

From the intricacies of the crown molding above an ornate fireplace to the antique door handles and solid oak floors, older homes are filled with fine details that will win your heart over. These finishing touches reflect the trends of the time the house was built and may also include trends from periods when the home underwent renovation or the addition of new rooms. In Ohio, it is not uncommon to find a Victorian-era home with Georgian, Spanish, or Mid-Century Modern accents sprinkled in over the years.

• Built to Last...But not Forever
  They don't build them like they used to, and that's both good and bad. Older homes were built with solid materials that were designed to stand up to the elements and rigors of family life. Of course, wind, rain, snow, ice, pests, and children can take their toll on even the sturdiest home. Older homes require TLC and expertise to keep them looking their best.
  
  When elements wear out and need to be replaced, you'll need to hire specialists in woodcraft, masonry, etc. to perform the work. You may also find it more difficult (and expensive) to replace elements and fixtures that are no longer in production or wood species that are no longer available.
     
• Covering Your Bases
  When buying an older home, it's vital that the wiring, plumbing, foundation, and roof elements, including supporting joists, receive a thorough inspection. These are some of the most common, and costliest, elements to repair within an older property. Always be aware that older homes can have unpleasant surprises in the form of mold, asbestos, lead, buried oil tanks, etc. These can require costly abatement treatments and could lead to an increase in your homeowner's insurance policy.
  
  
• Living up to Local Ordinances
  Owning a historic homes means you have to take into account any preservation ordinances that cover the property. These can restrict the way you use the property and any renovations or remodeling you plan to conduct. These local ordinances vary throughout Ohio, and you'll want to thoroughly research these before making an offer on a property.
  
  
• People Appreciate Old Properties, and Old Properties Appreciate Quickly
  There are fewer older homes on the market. This limited supply gives you an advantage when you list the home for sale. Further, homes in historic neighborhoods tend to appreciate at a faster rate than other properties on the market. This is due in part to their unique appearance, well-established landscaping, and typically larger lot sizes. Combined, this means your home will spend less time on the market and is likely to give you a significant return on your investment when you decide to sell. 

Contact us for more information about historic homes in the area. Our REALTORS® are always eager to help you step back in time to find the home of your dreams.