February 4, 2025 | Buying
What to Look For When Buying an Older Home
So, you’ve fallen in love with the charm of an older home in West Toronto? Welcome to the club. From High Park to Roncesvalles, Brockton Village to The Junction, this part of the city is packed with homes that have been standing for over a century—full of character, history, and let’s be honest, a few quirks. Older homes are fantastic, you just need to keep some perspective when evaluating them. We are here to help you navigate what’s worth worrying about and what’s just a harmless relic of an older build. Because, let’s be honest, if you’re looking for perfection, you’re in the wrong market.
What you should be looking for is a solid house with good bones and the right kind of upgrades. Let’s dive in.
Behind the walls
The first thing to check when walking into a century-old home? The mechanics—the behind-the-scenes essentials that keeps everything running smoothly. Even if the home looks somewhat renovated it is important to find out what was done behind the walls. Electrical wiring is often the number one item that comes to mind and is a major consideration for most buyers.
Knob-and-tube wiring was common until the 1950s, and while it’s not an automatic deal-breaker, insurance companies don’t love it. If it hasn’t been updated, you’ll want to budget for an electrician to bring things up to modern standards.
Plumbing is another crucial element. Many older homes have a mix of original and updated plumbing. Lead pipes? They’ll need to go. Copper and PEX? Much better. Heating and cooling systems are also important. Many older homes were built before central air was common, so many still rely on radiator heating. This is actually a great, efficient system, but if you’re dreaming of forced air, be prepared for a major reno.
Roofs and windows are big-ticket items that don’t last forever. A well-maintained roof is good for 20-25 years, and windows (if they’re not original) can last about the same. If they’re due for an update, factor that into your budget. The key takeaway? Just because something isn’t brand new doesn’t mean it’s not functional. The goal is to understand what’s been upgraded and what’s still on your to-do list.
Don’t panic! Older homes might have a few features you need to remedy, but it’s not the end of the world. Here are a few more posts you might find helpful:
Building code realities
Older homes were built to the standards of their time, which means some things might not align with today’s building codes. But before you panic, let’s clarify: if the house is standing strong after 100 years, it’s doing something right.
That said, here are some things you might notice. Insulation is often lacking in century-old homes. Many have little to no insulation in the walls. If the house hasn’t been gutted, upgrading insulation might be on your list, however it is not always a mandatory item, especially in a semi-detached where Railing heights are another consideration. If you’ve ever walked up a staircase in an older home and thought, “Wow, that’s low,” you’re not wrong. Railing heights have increased over the years, so older homes might not meet today’s code, however you are once again not required to change them, it is up to you and comfort level.
Does this mean an older home is unsafe? Not necessarily. It just means you need to understand what you’re working with and what upgrades might be needed.
Is it better to buy a brand-new home or an older property that’s been renovated? Find out right here.
Structural soundness check
If there’s one thing to emphasize, it’s this: a well-maintained older home is better than a neglected newer one. Foundation issues are one of the biggest concerns. Look for signs of settling—small cracks in plaster are normal, but large foundation cracks or sloping floors might indicate bigger problems. Brick and masonry should also be inspected carefully.
Many West Toronto homes were built with solid brick, which is a big win for durability. But if you see spalling (bricks flaking or deteriorating) or missing mortar, it’s a sign that tuckpointing is needed. Rooflines and door frames can also reveal structural concerns. Uneven door frames and sagging rooflines can be indicators of structural issues.
A bit of settling is normal, but major shifts are worth investigating. A century-old home that’s been cared for can be incredibly solid—but regular maintenance is key. Look for signs that previous owners have kept up with necessary repairs. ✅
Whether you’re buying a modern property or an older Toronto home, there are some basic things you should know as a buyer. Read these posts next:
- How to Avoid Making Move-Up Mistakes as a Buyer?
- Top 5 Ways We Speed Up the Process and Blow Buyers Away!
- How Long Does it Take to Buy a House in Toronto?
Making the layout work
The way we live has changed a lot in the last 100 years. Many older Toronto homes have closed-off kitchens, small bedrooms, and awkward layouts that don’t necessarily fit modern lifestyles. Can you open up the space? If you dream of an open-concept kitchen, be prepared for structural work. Load-bearing walls are common in these homes, and removing them requires proper support (and a decent chunk of your budget).
The layout of the home also plays a big role. Homes with a centre hall design are harder to modify, while side hall layouts might offer more flexibility for knocking down walls. Stairs and hallway flow are also worth considering. Some older homes often have steeper stairs and tighter hallways, while others can have a very wide grand feel especially on the main floor which can be valuable.
While you can renovate almost anything, some changes are easier (and more cost-effective) than others. Be sure to factor in the cost and feasibility of updates before you buy a fixer upper.
Hidden gem or money pit?
Basements in older Toronto homes are a mixed bag. Some have been beautifully finished, while others remain unfinished with rough concrete floors. Waterproofing is something worth asking about if the basement has been finished. Look for signs of past waterproofing, such as vapor barrier or waterproofing membrane.
Pro tip: You will often see signs of waterproofing materials in unfinished mechanical rooms. A damp basement isn’t uncommon, but excessive moisture or significant water damage can signal bigger problems.
Ceiling height can also be an issue. Many older basements were never meant to be livable spaces, so ceiling heights can be low. However, there is one solution to solve both these problems: Underpinning (aka: digging down to add height) This is a large undertaking and it doesn’t come cheap, but the result is worth it, for both usable additional living space for your family and future resale value of your home.
Structural concerns should also be considered. Check for bowing walls or crumbling foundation blocks—these can be expensive to repair – and we might even say are deal breaker. A finished, dry basement is a huge bonus in an older home, but even an unfinished basement with good potential can be a smart investment.
Before buying an older home in Toronto, read these posts next:
- How to Evaluate a Good Fixer-Upper in Toronto’s West End
- What Property Features Actually Matter When Buying a Home?
- Red Flags to Look For When You’re on the House Hunt
The beauty of an older Toronto home
Buying a century-old home in West Toronto isn’t just about owning property—it’s about embracing a story that’s been built over generations. Unlike new builds, these homes come with rich character, architectural details, and craftsmanship that simply can’t be replicated today. From original hardwood floors to intricate moldings, these elements give older homes a warmth and personality that modern construction often lacks.
That said, buying an older home means embracing quirks, understanding what’s been updated (and what hasn’t), and knowing what you’re willing to take on. It’s essential to do your homework so you know exactly what you’re getting into. But for those who appreciate charm over cookie-cutter convenience, the rewards are worth it. With the right mindset and a little patience- you’re not just buying a home— you’re becoming part of its story, ensuring its charm and character live on for generations to come.
Are you looking for the perfect older home in Toronto? We can help! Fill out the form on this page, call us at 416-909-1602, or email hello@getnested.ca to get in touch.
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