Living space in an old apartment – what you should look out for when buying
Dream apartment in an old building – what you should look out for when buying
The dream of home ownership – for many, this is the old apartment. With their often large rooms, high stucco ceilings and parquet floors, they have a charm all of their own. As attractive as apartments in old buildings may be, there are a few things to bear in mind when buying. We have summarized the most important points for you.

Old building apartment with double doors, large windows and herringbone parquet flooring.
Windows and doors in an old apartment
Interested buyers should take a closer look at the windows and doors when viewing a property, as heat loss can sometimes be high in sparsely renovated old buildings. Caution is advised with single glazing, leaky or warped window frames and doors as well as porous wood. The roof should also be examined more closely in advance, if an inspection is possible. For example, a rotten or decayed roof truss is associated with high renovation costs. Other potential risks include inadequate thermal insulation, defective roofing and possible pest infestation. Another typical problem of inadequately renovated old apartments is the cellar, which should be as free of moisture damage as possible. Drying it out is not only time-consuming but also expensive. However, damage is not only directly visible in the form of damp basement and first floor walls; mold growth can also be an indirect sign.
The condition of the old building is crucial
Minor façade damage such as chipped plaster or cracks may not be an eye-catcher, but they do not usually pose a structural problem. However, the situation is different with damage to load-bearing parts of the building, which is difficult for a layperson to recognize. In addition, the building services should be examined more closely to rule out the possibility of outdated floor heating systems or boilers causing problems at a later date.
If you want to buy an apartment in an old building as an investment, you should pay attention to the general condition of the apartment and the building – apart from its charm and location. Before making a purchase decision, it is advisable to view the property in question several times – ideally accompanied by an expert with experience of old buildings. Only once the building fabric and any damage have been inspected is there nothing standing in the way of an investment.
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Buying a condominium in Berlin
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