my son is buying a 50’s vintage house with asbestos shingles. I know there is the potential for high cost if it ever became neccesary to remove it or do extensive work on it. Should this be a huge red flag against buying?
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Depends on the location - some states have regs which affect disposal costs, others don't.
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"I may have said the same thing before... But my explanation, I am sure, will always be different." Oscar Wilde
Have an estimate or two of removal costs and play hardball with the seller- Thats what I would do-
Have an estimate or two of removal costs and play hardball with the seller- Thats what I would do-
Without a lot of informatoion about the deal and the location, I think it's dangerous to give advice like that.
The price might already reflect a discount if that siding is considered a negative in his area; or the house might otherwise be a great deal.
Playing hardball increases the chances of the deal going sour, which might be good, might be bad.
He should really talk to a good real estate agent and home inspector for the necessary info to make a reasoned decision.
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"I may have said the same thing before... But my explanation, I am sure, will always be different." Oscar Wilde
"Play Hardball with the seller" and blame the guy you played hardball with when things don't turn out the way you had hoped. Yeah that's great advice - negotiating construction work is not like negotiating a new car purchase. One is built in a controlled environment called a factory and the other is a custom on site project that has multiple factors involved from local codes, weather , disposal, and a host of other potential varying factors that can affect the price. Construction work of this type is usually done by an independent contractor who usually can tell when he's getting hosed - contractors who do business with hardball customers have plenty of ways to stick it to the customer in the end. I find that the hardball tactic customer are the ones that feel that got a raw deal when the truth is they ask for it by there "I'm gonna beat you down on your price " attitude. Try getting a guy that has done work for someone you know and trust. Oh wow trust - now there's a concept.
OK Guys I didn't mean that you should to try and get something for free- I do work in the asbestos industry though and am familiar with asbestos regulations. I realize a home with asbestos siding is a constant liability to the new owner. Simply stated you get an estimate on the costs of removal and bring those costs to the table. Even if the house is a good deal. And no, contrary to mickus123's thoughts you dont play hardball with the removal contractor you just need to know what you are getting into before you get into it.