Average cost: “The global average cost of a roof replacement, likewise anchored to my experience, is roughly $7,500, with many consumers spending between $4,000 and $10,000,” Hone says. But he admits that your roof type—as well as the type of asphalt shingles you pick—can make a difference. A slate roof, for instance, costs around $20 per square foot, which can be $40,000 on average. To determine what your home might need, check a roofing calculator.
“A typical chimney maintenance fee ranges from $800 to $2,500, with higher chimneys of 10 feet or over costing more than $4,500—which is worth every coin, since we are talking about house security, which no individual would want to compromise,” Hone says. You’ll also want to call in a chimney sweep to clean out the fireplace before you start using it again, which can range between $100 to $200.
5. Waterproofing the basement
You may be accustomed to housing problems starting at the top, but they can also originate from the bottom. Water in your basement can result in mold and also damage the home’s foundation. During the home inspection, Green recommends paying special attention to any water damage or cracks, noting that these issues need to be fixed ASAP to avoid additional damage. “You can also check landscaping for water pockets and sloped land, both of which can indicate excess water,” he adds.
The basement’s sump pump is the first line of defense since it prevents excess water from building up in the home, and Green says it should be inspected for any type of damage such as broken float switches and faulty check valves. “Be sure to also install a backup in case of a power outage and monitor your sump pump’s system to make sure everything is working properly,” he says. “Schedule annual maintenance or checkups of your sump pump to catch problems before they cause major damage and floods.”
Another thing to consider: Former owners may not know (or have kept up with) the last time sump pumps or septic systems were serviced. “It’s best to always err on the side of caution and proactively check things out after getting the keys to the home,” Green says. “If that older home doesn’t have window-well covers, consider having one installed to protect basement windows and stop leaks before they start.”
Average cost: It’s almost impossible to project how much waterproofing will cost, as it varies greatly per project. According to research data on Angi, basement waterproofing can range between $2,300 and $7,576, costing $4,920 on average. Something more extensive, like installing a new drainage system, can cost upward of $14,000.
6. Updating or restoring windows
Windows are an essential way to keep your home protected from the outside, and when you have an old home with single-pane windows, it can quickly lead to heat and cold transference. This transfer allows heat to escape during the winter and cool air to leak during the summer, ultimately making your HVAC system, if you have one, work harder to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. By repairing windows right away, you can help to decrease your utility bills and the strain on your HVAC system.