From: planet_first@yahoo.com (Raj)
Newsgroups: misc.consumers.house
Subject: Re: Considering buying an old stone house.
Date: 20 Sep 2004 06:59:31 -0700

vze8f3tq@verizon.net (v) wrote in message news:<414b3105.16503991@news.verizon.net>...
> On 15 Sep 2004 20:26:54 -0700, someone wrote:
> 
> >We looked at a old stone house, built in 1920s, in Bergen county, NJ,
> >and fell in love with it. It's just beautiful!
> >
> Is it really stone structure, or is it merely stone facing on wood
> stud structure?
> 
> Either way, buying old houses with dirt floored cellars and original
> windows in leaky conditions, isn't for first time buyers (unless they
> are very "handy"), or even repeat buyers who are used to new homes
> (unless ditto).  Its almost like "if you have to ask this Q its not
> for you".  With a house like this, you pays your money and you takes
> your chances.  
> 
> Sure go ahead if you want, and have "somebody" look at it, in
> particular the sill all the way around the foundation.  And BTW, even
> a "flat" roof (2% slope) doesn't leak if roofed right.  While I have
> seen various purchase contracts with inspection contingencies, there
> is no chance in Hell that the Seller would agree to fix "whatever" is
> found by an inspector, typically only a termite inspection (and then
> take it or leave it depending on results) would be agreed to.
> 
> An offer with an inspection contingency is going to be less attractive
> than one without, especially in an area where it is customarily done
> pre-offer.  One could try it, but could very well have it rejected and
> be told "inspect it all you want, then make the offer".  I,
> personally, have never asked for a "home inspection" contingency when
> making an offer.  I look the place over, bringing whoever I want with
> me, and then offer what I am willing to.
> 
> -v.

Thanks for all the replies folks.
I took a friend who is in construction business to check out the house
instead of an inspector. Well, the verdict is thumbs down. His own
words were - It's a great house but it will be a long and expensive
project.

Thanks again.
Raj