Tag Archives: 1950 home

Bargain Fixer-Upper or Money Pit? Houses Built in the 1950s

Cement and cinder-block construction was popular during the building boom of the 1940s to the 1960s.  Cracks that develop in the mortar between blocks allow water penetration.  

Also furnaces more than 20 years old are not only inefficient, noisy and costly to operate, they lack safety features like shut-off valves, which can make them dangerous to maintain.

Plumbing problems can require costly repairs as galvanized steel pipes were used until 1970 for water supply lines.

Fact: Homes built prior to and during the 1950s may have zero insulation in some areas – especially the attic.

Approximate cost of repairs:

  • Foundation – $30,000
  • Complete electrical – $8,000 to $20,000
  • Replacing pipes – $2000 and up.

Contact the appraisers at www.socalappraisalserv.com for your cost to value issues.

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