There are many factors and details you look at and consider when you are shopping for a home. From the neighborhood or school district to the number of bedrooms and bathrooms and if the home has a garage, you want to make sure the home is going to function well for you. Additionally, the home you buy should not need any expensive repairs when you move in, which can spring on you unexpectedly. Here are some tips to help you avoid some costly repairs in the home you buy.

Electrical Wiring

When you are shopping for a home, especially an older or historical home, you should pay attention to the home's electrical wiring. Homes built before 1950 were traditionally installed with knob and tube wiring, which is considered dangerous and a fire hazard, as it is not grounded. And knob and tube wiring is insulated with sheathing, which breaks down and disintegrates with age, eventually leaving the wiring exposed. In fact, most homeowner's insurance companies will not even insure your home if you buy one with knob and tube wiring still installed.

So, if you are considering buying an older home with all the historical character, be sure the electrical has already been updated to current standards; otherwise, you will be required to update it at your expense before you can insure it. However, you can make an offer on the home for a lower price to allow for you to pay for the electrical update or ask the seller to do this update before the sale takes place, as it can cost several thousand dollars to be updated properly.

Type of Sewer System

The home's type of sewer and its age should also be an important factor you consider in the property you want to buy. The home might be installed on its own septic system, which will require you to have pumped and maintained professionally on a regular basis. You may also need to have the tank inspected for damage before you buy the property. Replacing a septic tank can be costly and is something you may not be able to pay as a new homeowner.

A home that is connected to city sewer can also have its unique issues. A newer home can have a sewer line that has been sheared off at its foundation. On an older home, a clay or Orangeberg sewer pipe that is aging, crumbling, collapsing, or cracking, especially with tree root growth can necessitate replacement, which can require excavation of your yard and be a costly update. You may want to hire a professional sewer line company to look at the condition of the sewer line and make sure it is sound and working properly.

For more information on finding real estate homes near you, contact your local realtor today.