When searching for a new home, it’s common for many people to lean towards newer construction and modern designs. Older homes may tend to get overlooked due to their sometimes outdated features.

Modern homes often feel fresh and new, whereas older homes can sometimes feel too old for some people’s taste. They usually have chopped-up floor plans and less modern design choices that could turn many people away from purchasing them. 

While antique houses have their downfalls, such as old home insurance costing more than a new build’s coverage, many positives can make an older home incredible. If you’re searching for your dream house, don’t overlook the unique characteristics older homes have to offer.

#1 – Older Homes Contain Higher Quality Materials

Buying a home that was built many years ago doesn’t ensure you will never have a structural issue. However, most newer homes can’t compare to the quality of older houses. 

The lumber used for historic homes is typically old-growth wood, making it denser and heavier. Because of this, it is less susceptible to warping or rotting over time. Older homes also typically have plaster walls that are stronger and more soundproof than newer, drywall options in houses today. 

You will also find the quality of construction to be better in an older home typically. While newer homes tend to be mass-produced by construction companies, older homes are individually and tediously built by hand. These differences in construction can significantly distinguish how well your home holds up over time. 

While you may still run into some issues with your older home, you can rest assured that its construction quality will exceed any newer builds you may have considered.

#2 – Antique Houses Are Filled With Unique Character

Driving down the street in a newer neighborhood may make you feel bored by the repeated design choices. Many modern homes are built by companies who mass produce homes that all look similar.

With an older home, you are purchasing something truly unique and special. The time and dedication that went into building these houses make them unlike any other. Older homes were often personally designed by the owner, who chose each and every unique feature carefully during the building process. 

You will often find features like hand-poured crown molding, multiple fireplaces, ornate woodwork, and stained glass that fill an older home with character. These features are rarely seen in newer homes.

Older homes also have a more closed layout, with each room in the home having its own separate purpose. While open floor plans have become common in recent years, having a home with so many different rooms can make your home feel unique and greatly open up your design options. 

#3 – Bigger Yards Are Common With Older Homes

If you’re someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, a large yard is probably high on your priority list for your next house. Many older homes come with spacious yards filled with mature trees. 

Over time, yards have continued to grow smaller and smaller for homes being built. It’s not uncommon to find newer homes with half the yard space — or less — of older homes. 

Because builders wanted to make as much money as possible, it became common to cut down lot sizes in favor of more room to build. With an antique house, you will likely find your lot much larger than any newer build you may encounter.

This large yard offers plenty of outdoor space for entertaining, gardening, or playtime with your children or pets. The mature trees you will likely find also can provide excellent shade on those hot, sunny days. 

If you hope to turn your backyard into your own personal oasis, large yards offer you the space to create the outdoor area of your dreams. 

#4 – Older Homes Tend to Cost Less Than Newer Builds

Even with their charm, large yards, and quality materials, it’s still common for older homes to cost less than something built more recently. You can often find a much larger older home for the same price — if not less — than you would pay for a new build.

Materials can potentially play a part in this price difference, as the cost of materials has increased significantly over time. Even if the materials are not the same quality, their build cost can be a large reason newer homes are more expensive. Construction sites also pose an inherent potential for accidents and property damage therefore you need to insure your new home during construction.

Older homes may also be less desirable than newer homes for many reasons. The chopped-up layout of antique houses may not be ideal for those looking for a modern, open floor plan. 

Some may also not want to deal with the unique needs of an older home. Because of the older materials, it’s common for these historic builds to need special care and maintenance. It can be more than some people are willing to take on in their homes. 

#5 – Locations Are Often Better for Older Homes

If you’re looking to be close to town, older homes are precisely the type of house you should be looking for. Rather than sitting in a large subdivision, antique dwellings are often located near the hustle and bustle of the city. If you enjoy walking, you may be able to walk to many locations in the area easily. 

Well-established neighborhoods are also a common feature of older homes. Older homes and surrounding communities will surely deliver if you’re looking for a strong sense of community. 

Because of their long-standing history, these neighborhoods may often have families who have lived there for generations. Your neighbors will likely welcome you into a tight-knit community filled with people who will look out for you and your belongings. 

Considering an Older Home to Be Your Dream Home

It’s not uncommon for older homes to get overlooked during many people’s home-buying process. Newer constructions are flashier and boast more modern amenities. 

However, don’t rule out an antique house if you’re on the hunt for your dream home. These older homes have much more to offer than may initially meet the eye.

With quality construction, unique character, large yards, lower costs, and beautiful locations, well-maintained older homes are a great consideration to keep in mind. While they may not have all the updated features and amenities, they do have much to offer in their own way. 

Author Bio:Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the insurance comparison site, ExpertInsuranceReviews.com. She is the proud owner of an older home and quickly learned to love what makes it unique.

Suggested reads:

Park Solomon – Biography, Net Worth, & Know How His Career Took a Turn

Katie Douglas – Biography, Life Story & 5 Facts You Didn’t Know About Her