Buying an Older Home? Let’s Check the "Bones" Together
There is so much character in our local Southern NH homes, from the 1800s farmhouses in Hollis to the charming 1920s bungalows in Derry. But as your neighborly inspector, I always remind buyers that older homes come with "older bones."
Many of our local treasures feature fieldstone foundations. These were built to be incredibly sturdy, but they weren't exactly built to be "waterproof" by modern standards. In these older homes, a little bit of seasonal dampness is often expected. However, there is a big difference between "old house charm" and a "structural concern."
When we walk through a home together, I’m looking for the red flags: Are the floor joists showing signs of rot? Is that foundation crack "active" (meaning it’s still moving and growing)? Is the sump pump actually up to the task of a Granite State spring? My goal isn't to scare you away from a beautiful old home—it’s to make sure you have the facts so you can buy with confidence. Buying a home is a huge step, and I want you to feel like you’re moving in with a friend who has already checked the basement for you.
Ready to call that old NH house "home"? Don't let foundation fears keep you up at night. Let’s get a clear look at the bones of the house before you sign.
