When someone describes a house as having “good bones,” what do they really mean? And if you’re in the market for a home, how can you assess whether a property fits this description? Although there isn’t a strict definition for this real estate term, a house with good bones typically has the characteristics we’ll cover in this blog.
How to determine if a home has “Good Bones”
Determining if a home has good bones isn’t something most buyers can do on their own; it typically requires the expertise of professionals—ideally, several experts. A professional home inspector is essential in this process. They conduct a thorough examination using a detailed checklist, assessing everything visible and reasonably accessible in the home. However, a home inspection alone might not reveal everything. Some elements of the home, especially those hidden within walls, may be beyond the inspector’s scope. To get a complete picture, consider bringing in additional specialists, such as an electrician, plumber, roofer, general contractor, or structural engineer. These experts can provide further insights into the home’s condition and help you determine if it truly has good bones.
What Buyers should Evaluate
Major Systems: Homes with good bones typically feature updated or well-maintained mechanical systems, including plumbing, electrical, and heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC). If these systems are not in good condition, repairing or replacing them can be expensive. Additionally, plumbing leaks can cause significant water damage and promote the growth of unhealthy mold.
Structural Soundness: Cracked walls, buckled floors, discolored ceilings, water puddles, and a sagging roofline may seem like cosmetic issues but could also indicate hidden problems with the home’s foundation, structural elements, or roof. Addressing these underlying issues can be quite costly. Additionally, it’s important to check for potential hazards such as asbestos, lead-based paint, and damage from termites or other wood-destroying pests.
Original Features: Classic architectural features, such as original tile, ornate moldings and baseboards, solid wood doors, and hardwood floors, not only enhance a home’s charm but also suggest that it was well-built and well-maintained. If these details are missing or in poor condition, it might indicate that the home was constructed with lower-quality materials or underwent inexpensive renovations.
Floor Plan: A good floor plan is both functional and intuitive. Rooms are typically well-proportioned and regularly shaped, with related spaces—such as the kitchen and dining areas—located near each other. Doors, hallways, and staircases are strategically positioned, and windows allow for ample natural light. An awkward floor plan can be surprisingly expensive to correct, so it’s important to evaluate its layout carefully.
Should you buy a home with “Good Bones”?
One challenge in buying a home with “good bones” is that these properties are often attractive to professional remodelers, sometimes referred to as ‘house flippers.’ These professionals typically make all-cash offers, which can be appealing to sellers. If you find yourself competing against a remodeler in a bidding war, consider both the cost of the home and the expenses required for repairs. The final price at which you secure the home may end up being higher than the value added by the renovations. Recouping your investment in a home that needs significant work can be difficult unless you purchase it at a very favorable price. If an older home requiring substantial work doesn’t suit your needs, you might want to explore newer or newly built homes. New construction, sold directly by builders, comes with fresh ‘bones’ and often includes a builder’s warranty. Plus, with a blank canvas, you have more flexibility to customize it to your liking. Regardless of a home’s age, a professional home inspection is essential to thoroughly assess its condition.
Ready to buy a home, but don’t know where to start with financing? Read Home Loan Options for more insight!