If you are on the hunt for a single-family home for sale, don't forget to inquire how old it is. Below are some aspects of a home that depends on its age.

Maintenance

Most materials deteriorate with time due to wear and tear. Thus, older homes require more maintenance than newer homes. For example, a twenty-year-old roof might require more frequent repairs and replacements than one with a one-year-old roof. Note that other factors, such as material and design, also affect home maintenance requirements.

Trends

Home trends change with time. For example, newer homes are likely to have:

• Open floor plans
• Granite countertops
• Stainless steel appliances

On the other hand, older homes are likely to have:

• Large yards
• Custom interior doors
• Built-in shelving

Thus, you may find that your favorite house features are more common in houses of some ages than others.

Energy Efficiency

New homes tend to be more energy-efficient and eco-friendly than old homes. For one, solar energy, energy-efficient materials, and green materials are not common with very old homes. Many buildings also experience decreased energy efficiency with time.

Thus, you may want to avoid homes that are decades old if you want an energy-efficient home. The exceptions are old homes whose owners have retrofitted with energy-efficient designs or installations.

Major Replacements

Most parts of the house require regular replacement. For example, most roofs last 20-25 years, while stovetops and ovens last about 20 years. Thus, if you buy a new house, you will go a long time without such major replacements.

However, you can also delay major replacements if you buy an old home that has undergone the major replacements in the recent past. For example, many 30-year-old houses have had their roofs replaced in the recent past. A home inspection can confirm that this is the case.

Price

Lastly, the age of the home also affects its price. For homes that are both relatively new, the newer home will cost more than their older counterpart. For example, a three-year-old home is likely to cost more than an eight-year-old home. However, homes that are decades old might not differ much in price. Also, old homes in established neighborhoods tend to hold their value well.

As you can see, the age of a home is a critical factor you should consider during the purchase. However, few homes have clear and absolute advantages because of their ages. You have to consider the home as a whole and weigh it against your needs before you decide to buy it.