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Just get a very good home inspector inspect all of the major components and have them tell you what they think will need to be replaced in the next couple of years.
The "youngest" house I have ever owned was "only" about 12 y/o. My current house was built in 1921 and is pretty strong. I have great insulation, which I added to, to make it superior, and a good solid foundation. I would NEVER consider a house less than 10 yrs old - you don't know what foundation issues will develop over time until the time has passed. And as many others have written, older houses built before the recent boom yeas had better construciton on average.
1991 is not old, but as another poster mentioned, you will run into a potential issue with major items like the roof and A/C being at the end of their life. Or they could have already been replaced... It's worth asking about if you like the place.
I'm personally more scared of new construction. At my price range, the new houses are in subdivisions built by a single builder. They build them fast and at low cost. That could mean a lot of shoddy construction.
Here, it's actually a little more desirable to buy a late 80s/ early 90s home because they're on actual 1/4 acre lots. The newer homes here near the coast tend toward 50x100 foot lots.
As long as the home is properly maintained, age shouldn't be that big a deal. If the house was built in '91 and that's the last time anyone did anything to maintain it...then you have a problem.
Quote:
Originally Posted by greenthinker
I saw a house in the best school district. I like it. But it was built in 1991. I wonder if I should buy it as this is a 18 years old house. Most houses for sale in Phoenix are fairly new. I am worried it can be hard to sell 10 years later when I am ready to move out. plus,maintenance problems come with ages. What you think? Thank you.
I'm no expert, but know the difference between quality and crap. Depends on who built it, the materials, and what level of pride they took in their work.
It's reasonable be concerned about house systems (e.g., air conditioning, water heater), especially if you're stretching to purchase the house, because I suspect a few will be approaching the age of failure. However, every homeowner faces these expenses at some point. Like others, I suggest having a good house inspection and asking for concessions at purchase if anything is on the brink. Also, make sure that you keep an emergency replacement fund.
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