buying a townhome that was built in 1998, good idea? bad idea? (Savannah: apartment complex, lease)

[winetime]

I notice allot of townhomes are selling for decent prices built around 1998, is there a reason why people try to sell them when they get about 20yrs old? They look in great condition. Do hoa's usually go up when they get older? The townhomes I was looking at don't include the roof outside of building or insurances.

[10scoachrick]

Originally Posted by winetime

I notice allot of townhomes are selling for decent prices built around 1998, is there a reason why people try to sell them when they get about 20yrs old? They look in great condition. Do hoa's usually go up when they get older? The townhomes I was looking at don't include the roof outside of building or insurances.

Unless 1998 is a typo, you're closer to 15 years...could make a difference in some of the 'components'.
The build quality may have suffered if the units were built during a 'boom' period, but most of the 'failings' should be showing up by now...settling, cracking walls, chimney pulling away, uneven floors, failing plumbing, lousy parking pad or entry steps, etc.

There weren't as many gremlins during the '90s and 'zins compared to the nastiness of the 60s, 70s and even into the 80s(like asbestos, aluminum wiring, PB water supply piping, etc); BUT, the windows may have failed in fifteen years and the roof has likely approached the point of deserving replacement if it has not already been done. I'd be surprised if the water heater is original...could be and should likely be replaced with more efficient unit. Same for the HVAC that may have seen some repairs over the years but might need replacement. The veneer of the building could be suspect, IF it is some sort of stucco. Brick or stone should be OK. Of course, the appliances could be original or even just 10 years old...in which case they might need replacing with more energy efficient units.

I'd talk to some neighbors and, of course, get a professional home inspector involved before you get too far along in the process.

Good luck!

[winetime]

Thanks for taking the time to give an awesome reply.

[lorilove]

I bought a townhouse that was built in the 1980's and have been very happy. Just be aware of what you are getting yourself into as far as what needs to be replaced when. We don't have a HOA so it is no difference than owning a SFR

One of the great things about older homes is that you eventually upgrade the house. In my neighborhood, the homes are no longer cookie cutter. Everyone has done their own thing over time and each one is unique but still very nice.

The best advice I ever got when I bought my house is definitely get out and talk to the neighbors in advance of buying - they will be honest with you about the neighborhood and may have some insight into the unit you are buying

[Newsboy]

I currently live in an apartment complex that was built in the early 1980s. Think California contemporary ski lodge look. Being in Savannah and only six miles from the ocean, they're ptetty rough and weathered looking from the outside -- at first glance. The insides have some goofy features like bathroom vanities in the master bedroom (not the bath) and built-in wetbars with mirrored backsplashes in the living room, next to wood-burning fireplaces with rough-hewn cedar trim and "accent light" in the ceiling. Get the picture? They could've shot 1980s porn in here for all you know.

ANYWAY ... the complex is old enough that management doesn't really care what you do inside OR out to your unit, as long as you maintain some sense of continuity. Some people who've lived here awhile have enclosed their patios, created landscapes courtyards, etc. On the inside, all the walls are painted a choice of accent colors (they'll do it for you) rather than the standard off-white or beige, they've replaced my linoleum floors with pergo hardwood and my light fixtures with new brushed nickle antique models. Next lease renewal, I'm getting a new kitchen. And this is an APARTMENT COMPLEX!

I know that there's far more freedom (as well as need or desire) to upgrade townhouse / condo units. To me this is the biggest benefit of living in an older community.

[winetime]

This is helpful info thanks to everyone. Keep the opinions going please. Lorilove were are the townhomehomes with no hoas in the Dunwoody, Alpheretta, Duluth areas? Would love to know.

[lorilove]

Originally Posted by winetime

This is helpful info thanks to everyone. Keep the opinions going please. Lorilove were are the townhomehomes with no hoas in the Dunwoody, Alpheretta, Duluth areas? Would love to know.

Sorry don't know - I am in Smyrna. Look for townhomes with no common areas such as a pool that must be maintained. We have an entrance way but keep that up via volunteer and donations.

Townhomes where you maintain the property yourself and not through an association are often referred to as Fee Simple.

[Onthemove2014]

A house from 98 is considered old now? Wow, I know people in homes from the 70s and and even turn of the century.

[Fortendnight]

for the person looking for non HOA town housing look in the Norcross area in Gwinnette co

[winetime]

Great, I will check out Norcross, Gwinnette, & Symrna. Thanks allot to all replies.