Resale homes almost immediately reveal whether they have been “loved.” More than paint or cleanliness, the age and condition of the mechanical systems and the quality of past repairs tell the real story of how a home has been cared for.

Most builders intend to deliver a quality home consistent with their pricing. However, the outcome often hinges on the construction manager overseeing the job. Regardless, success requires active management of the process and an advocate who knows the standards and holds the builder accountable.

While homes built since the turn of the century can still present material challenges, they tend to be more situational rather than systemic. Most homes now operate with modern HVAC systems either gas or heat pump and oil-fueled appliances or boilers are increasingly rare. That said, one persistent wildcard remains: poorly executed work by DIY’ers amd the “handyman”.

This period marked the first major wave of home construction in our area and some material “innovations” created long-term challenges. The move away from all-brick construction to hardboard siding - sometimes called by the trade name Masonite - led to ongoing maintenance expense and, in some cases, total replacement. Polybutylene plumbing has also failed far more often than materials used before or after it, sometimes causing significant damage. While these issues can be addressed, it’s important to understand whether they are present and what they mean for your home.

Home construction was becoming more standardized when material costs prompted an unfortunate shift toward aluminum wiring on 15 and 20 amp branch circuits. The industry quickly learned the safety risks associated with this practice, but identifying affected homes remains critical. Split-level and split-foyer homes popular during this period may also present challenges that are frequently misunderstood.

Homes built before the 1970s were usually constructed by individual contractors, so the quality can vary significantly. In this area, outdated systems like knob-and-tube wiring are almost eradicated - but not always. If you’re dreaming of bringing an old bungalow or farmhouse back to life, let’s talk. It takes a realistic plan and a solid understanding of whether the investment makes sense.

Flips are often completed by individuals who lack the knowledge required to produce a quality home. While they may look good cosmetically, flippers typically must perform the work themselves or rely on unskilled labor to remain profitable. Too often, load-bearing walls are removed improperly and crawlspaces are ignored.