How to Buy a House: Inspecting Pre-1970s Detroit Homes for Old Charm

Detroit is famous nationwide for its gorgeous historic neighborhoods like Boston-Edison, Indian Village, and the University District. While original hardwood floors, Pewabic tile, and intricate historic woodwork are stunning, buying an older home comes with unique infrastructural risks.

When looking at historic homes in Detroit, your standard home inspection is not enough. You must also budget for specialized inspections:

• The Sewer Line (The $10,000 Risk): Detroit relies on an aging, combined sewer system. Over decades, tree roots frequently crush old clay pipes leading from the house to the city main. Always pay the $150 to $250 for a dedicated sewer camera inspection. Finding a collapsed pipe before closing can save you from catastrophic basement flooding and a massive excavation bill.

• Outdated Electrical Systems: Many historic homes still harbor knob-and-tube wiring or outdated electrical panels. This is a massive fire hazard and will make the home nearly impossible to insure without costly immediate updates.

• Lead Paint & Asbestos: Homes built before 1978 almost certainly contain lead paint. While it is usually safe if painted over and undisturbed, it requires specialized contractors to remediate if you plan to scrape windows or knock down walls.

The Bottom Line: Historic charm is worth the effort, but only if you know what is hiding behind the walls. Always use a vetted network of local inspectors or an expert to guide you through the process of how to buy a new home, who know exactly what to look for in our city’s aging housing stock.