HIDDEN COSTS OF BUYING AN OLD HOUSE IN MARYLAND
Do you know that the median year Maryland homes were built in is 1976? That means that
Maryland homes are commonly around 50 years old. The city of Baltimore has the third-highest
median home age in the entire country, with a median home age of 75 years.
There are even some homes in the state that were built before the 20th century!
While this provides a wide range of architectural wonders to view, it can be hard to find a home
with the modern conveniences and comforts many homeowners prioritize.
We’ve created this guide for potential buyers to make informed decisions about buying an old
house.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO REHAB AN OLD HOUSE?
According to Angi, the average range for complete renovation costs in America can range from
$19,478 to $88,340. Costs can change due to materials, labor, and the specific project.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO INSTALL DUCTWORK IN AN OLD
HOUSE?
The national average cost range is $2,000 to $7,500. Call 410-204-2662 to get an estimate for
your installation.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO INSTALL AN HVAC SYSTEM IN AN OLD
HOME?
For a complete HVAC system, it can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $12,500.
Learn about your HVAC installation options with Blue Dot Service!
Maryland Homeowner Costs You Need to Know About
Using 2021 census data, we gathered details on maintenance and renovation costs for
Maryland homeowners.
MAINTENANCE COSTS
138,500 homes required no maintenance costs
174,600 homes required maintenance that cost $2,400 or more
The mean maintenance cost of Maryland homes was $1,175
RENOVATION COSTS
There were 2,689,500 home improvement projects
The mean cost of home improvement was $5,487
The mean cost of roofing improvements was $9,218
The mean cost of siding improvements was $7,595
The mean window and door improvement cost was $4,029
The mean insulation renovation cost was $2,561
The mean water pipe renovation cost was $2,451
The mean general plumbing upgrades cost was $2,059
The mean electrical upgrades cost was $2,094
The mean HVAC upgrades cost was $5,840
OLD VS. NEW HOMES: PROS AND CONS
When deciding whether to live in an old or new home, costs aren’t the only factor to consider.
Here are the pros and cons of each type of home.
Old Home | |
|---|---|
Pros | Cons |
Can bring higher resale value | Can be difficult to maintain |
Unique architectural features | Renovations can be more costly |
Eligible for home improvement loans | Home insurance premiums can be higher |
Potentially lower purchase price | Home systems are closer to the end of life |
Mature landscaping | Potential historical building restrictions |
Made of premium materials | Potentially built with hazardous materials |
New Home | |
|---|---|
Pros | Cons |
Built-in modern conveniences and energy | Can lose uniqueness in a crowded housing |
Easier to maintain | More likely to come with HOA fees |
Eligible for home improvement loans | Smaller yard space |
Doesn’t need structural renovations right | Could be far away from the city (longer |
Bigger living spaces | Higher purchase price |
May still be eligible for warranties | Less unique designs |
HISTORICAL BUILDING CONSTRAINTS
You don’t have to worry about official restrictions on older homes unless a local jurisdiction
classifies them as having historical value. Your realtor should mention if such restrictions exist
as you go through the purchase process of such a home.
Just in case you are still concerned, here are examples of official building guidance from the
Maryland Existing Building Code. In historic homes:
Repairs must be done with original or similar materials and construction methods (minus hazardous materials).
Replacement of existing or missing features is allowed if using original materials.
Repairs can include partial replacements if they match the original in configuration, size, and height.
HIDDEN COSTS IN OLDER HOMES: PLUMBING,
ELECTRICAL, AND HVAC CHALLENGES
Older homes often have hidden issues with electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems due to
materials, current conditions, or needed upgrades. These can include:
PLUMBING
Lead pipes (which must be replaced)
Deteriorating pipes
Deteriorating plumbing systems
Limited space for plumbing upgrades
Poor drainage systems
Damaged sewer lines
Low water pressure
Pipe bellies or downward slopes in the water line
ELECTRICAL
Knob and tube electrical wiring (which is a safety hazard)
Not enough electric outlets
Faulty wiring or malfunctioning outlets
Malfunctioning lights or light switches
Undersized electrical panels
Worn-out circuit breaker
Aluminum electrical wiring (which is a fire hazard)
Poor grounding of electrical elements
HVAC
Unsealed windows and doors
Deteriorating or dangerous insulation (asbestos in old houses is common)
Deteriorating air ducts
Poor indoor air quality
Malfunctioning thermostat
Broken HVAC system or parts
Do you need HVAC repair or replacement? See which is right for your home system.
ENSURE YOUR HVAC NEEDS ARE MET
Whether you have an older or modern home, Blue Dot can help you with all your HVAC and
water heater needs. We’re experts in maintenance, replacements, and installations, and our pro service plan will help you save money.
Our technicians are courteous and professional, answering your questions before and after
finishing their service. We also offer financing options!
