Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, March 11, 1990                   TAG: 9003123165
SECTION: HOMES                    PAGE: B-3   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN AN OLD HOUSE

Here are some things to think about when you're prowling around an old property with a flashlight and a checkbook:

Look for unique features: a view, period detail, intact cabinetry, bays and bows.

Is the layout conducive to change? Could modern kitchen and baths be installed without moving too many walls? Can storage be added efficiently?

Is most of the space usable as it is?

Find out what, if any, problems exist with the structure and how much it might cost to get them fixed.

Check out the plumbing, electrical and heating systems.

Are there any health hazards, such as lead paint, asbestos insulation or radon, present?

If you have specific design wishes, find out if they are feasible. For instance, reopening fireplaces is tricky and expensive.

Try to figure out, as accurately as possible, how much time and money the project will take then determine where the emotional and financial resources will come from. Is the house livable? If not, where will you live while work is going on?

Consider the investment: Will it be repaid? Where is the neighborhood going? Is the house in a historic preservation district? That could limit the changes you want to make. Talk to neighbors and people on the street. Find out if there is a strong neighborhood association, maybe attend a meeting.

And, finally, try to fall in love, with the whole project, not just the building.

Rehabbing is a process. If a 3 a.m. date with a bucket of joint compound still sounds pretty romantic to you, buy the house.