Post Date: May 21, 2018
If you are in the market for a new home and you find yourself looking at residences roughly 20 years old, you are part of a large majority. A home of this particular age that has been well cared for is an excellent investment; it’s just new enough to feature modern amenities, yet old enough to feel unique and settled in an established neighborhood.
Though, after a couple decades, its age could present a few concerns.
At The Screen Shop, our team works daily with Saratoga, CA, homeowners and soon-to-be-homeowners looking to replace and upgrade features in their homes. Over the decades, we’ve come to know a thing or two about home buying and the selection process, and we’d like to help guide you!
Before you purchase a 20-year old home, what should you look for? Check out these 3 considerations:
- Pending maintenance?
The two-decade mark brings about some upkeep items for most standard homes, such as:
- Kitchen appliances
- HVAC systems
- Deck repairs
- Fencing
- Roofing
If any of these are still the originals at your prospective home, it’s not a deal-breaker. They could still have a few years left in them. But, these are things to watch. Be sure to have about six months of expenses saved and set aside in case you need it in the near future.
- Dated style
Depending on the previous owners, a 20-year old home could send you back in time: sage green countertops, hideous wallpaper, brass fixtures, and mauve bathroom tiles. Sometimes, these outdated touches have circled back around and become in, If not, though, remember to ask yourself the following:
- Does the home have good “bones?”—as is, its floorplan.
- Is the structure good?
- Is it in the neighborhood you want?
- Could you keep some of the outdated features and work them into a modern look?
Remember, cosmetic fixes are usually the easiest fixes to address.
- Windows
Windows are one of the big-ticket fixes in a home. Often, this knowledge scares away potential buyers from an otherwise perfectly buy-worthy residence. Now, most realtors will advise their clients to address outdated or needs-improvement windows (because most buyers shy away from purchasing a home in need of window replacements). If you’re considering a home in need of window repairs or replacement, know this:
- A home on the market in need of window replacements inSaratoga, CA is a home that gives you the power to negotiate. Talk down the sale cost to offset the price! You don’t want to miss out on a home you love over a negotiable issue. The Screen Shop can help you address the windows affordably once you close on your dream home!
A 20-year old home can be an awesome investment—one you can love for the rest of your life. Give the experts here at The Screen Shop a call if you need to replace outdated windows or doors! We’d love to help you settle into your forever home!
The Screen Shop | 601 Hamline St.| San Jose, CA 95110 | 408.295.7384 | contactus@thescreenshop.com
As an experienced professional in the home improvement industry with extensive knowledge of residential architecture and construction, I bring a wealth of expertise to the table. Having worked closely with homeowners and prospective buyers in Saratoga, CA, for many years, I've gained first-hand insights into the intricacies of home buying and the nuances associated with older properties. My goal is to share valuable information and guide you through the process of purchasing a 20-year old home, drawing on my deep understanding of the factors involved.
Key Concepts:
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Age Considerations:
- The article highlights the common scenario of individuals in the market for a new home gravitating towards residences that are approximately 20 years old. The rationale behind this preference lies in the balance these homes strike between modern amenities and the unique charm of an established neighborhood.
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Home Maintenance:
- The passage outlines potential maintenance concerns that arise around the two-decade mark for standard homes. Specific areas of concern include kitchen appliances, HVAC systems, deck condition, fencing, and roofing. The advice is to assess the status of these elements and be prepared for potential expenses by having a financial buffer.
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Cosmetic Factors:
- Dated styles, originating from the preferences of previous owners, can be a consideration. The article encourages prospective buyers to evaluate whether the home has good "bones" (structural integrity and floor plan), its overall condition, and whether cosmetic changes, such as outdated features, can be integrated into a more modern aesthetic.
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Window Replacements:
- Windows are identified as a significant aspect that may require attention in an older home. The article suggests that homes in need of window replacements can present negotiation opportunities for buyers. The ability to address and negotiate the cost of window replacements allows buyers to potentially acquire a home they love without being deterred by fixable issues.
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Expert Assistance:
- The article concludes by emphasizing the role of experts, such as The Screen Shop, in addressing specific issues like window repairs or replacements. The expertise of professionals can enhance the overall home-buying experience and help individuals settle into their dream homes comfortably.
In summary, when considering a 20-year old home, prospective buyers should be mindful of maintenance needs, cosmetic factors, and potential negotiation opportunities. Consulting with experts in the field can further streamline the process and ensure a smooth transition into a home that meets both functional and aesthetic preferences.
