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 Sometimes, these outdated touches have circled back around and become in, If not, though, remember to ask yourself the following: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- Could you keep some of the outdated features and work them into a modern look?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 Now, most realtors will advise their clients to address outdated or needs-improvement windows (because most buyers shy away from purchasing a home in need of window replacements).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 in Saratoga, 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