After the Civil War, Atlanta began to put itself back together and welcomed many new residents who built beautiful homes. From Ansley Park to Virginia-Highland, the city is home to dozens of historic neighborhoods with homes that date back to late 1800s and early 1900s. Some of these homes have been restored and revitalized. Some of them are just waiting for the right owner to come along and return them to their former glory. If you are interested in buying one of Atlanta’s older homes, there are a few things you need to look for before you get serious about making a purchase.
Foundation
The foundation is one of the most important — and expensive — aspects of a home to address. Visible cracks and water damage are just a few signs that something is not quite right. Luckily, foundation problems are often easily identified by looking with the naked eye.
Roof
The roof may be the second-most important aspect of the home to address after the foundation. If it sags, shows water damage, has holes in it, is missing shingles or has rotten beams, you will most likely need to replace it. Not doing so could lead to serious injuries, leaks and damage to your belongings.
Plumbing
Plumbing problems can be a real headache for homeowners, so make sure those pipes are in good condition before making a purchase. Leaks, blockages and corrosion will get worse if not addressed. You will also want to make sure pipes are not made of outdated materials, like cast iron.
Electrical Wiring
The electrical wiring inside the home can also lead to problems down the road, and it can become a potential fire hazard. Look for previous fire damage, and make sure the breakers work. Also, homes with three-prong outlets are safer than those with two.
General Health and Safety Risks
If the home will pose an immediate threat to you anyone else living in it, you need to address these concerns immediately. Some are easily fixed, while others may not be in your budget. Problems like lead paint, termites or other bug or rodent infestations, lack of smoke and carbon dioxide detectors, loose handrails and mold should all be addressed before anyone lives in a home of any age.
To find out more about Atlanta’s historic homes and neighborhoods, contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 404.237.5000.