Is buying a home with an old roof a bad idea? Being a player in the local real estate market is exciting, but as an investment, it is crucial to look beyond the floor plan and front yard when considering a property for resale.
As a premier roofing company in The Villages, FL, Eustis Roofing advises homebuyers to consider several factors in older roofs. Being vigilant about the roof may even make the difference between sealing an unfavorable deal and knowing when to walk away.
A Roof Inspection is Essential
The first consideration is the protective function of the roof. A roof protects possessions and people from wind, rain, snow, sun, and much more. So, A roof inspected by a qualified local home inspector is an essential part of the buying process if you want to determine whether the property is worth the asking price. For more detailed information about roof inspections and standards, visit the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).
Scheduling an inspection is especially crucial for roofs that are 20 years or older. Although roofs are durable, these structures are susceptible to wear and tear, water damage, mold, and so on. Older roofs typically require more repairs, and the last thing a new homeowner wants is unexpected roof repairs right after moving into the building.
Rather, include the cost of potential repairs in the overall budget. An inspection is an easy way to identify these potential issues and add them during the sale negotiations. It also gives an idea of how durable the roof is and whether it might need a replacement sooner rather than later.
Buying Home with Old Roof? Check the Shingles
The shingles say a lot about a Eustis roof’s durability. Missing or broken shingles might be a warning sign to look at another home to purchase, even though roofing contractors like ours can easily restore these shingles. The additional cost of repair might be a red flag, especially where a new homeowner potentially faces an entire roof replacement.
Homeowners Insurance Policy
Most homeowners’ policies will cover roof repair, but not for roofs over 20 years old. Before buying a home with an old roof, check the policy. Are there any restrictions on roof repair coverage that might sway your decision on whether to buy the property?
Roofing Materials
The final consideration is the roofing material, which plays a key role in its life expectancy. For example, asphalt shingles are popular in Florida and typically last between 15 and 30 years. They are one of the least expensive material options with lower repair costs, but even asphalt shingle roof replacements can be costly as an unexpected home-buying expense.
Other roofing materials like metal have a life expectancy of up to 50 years and might be more expensive to repair and replace.
Florida’s Most Reliable Roofing Company
At Eustis Roofing, our professionals give you a guide to buying a house and are ready to answer all your questions.
Are you buying a home with an old roof? Call Eustis Roofing at (352) 343-4240 today to learn more about our roofing services!
