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ForumsArrowStarting OutArrowFirst time home buyer: Brick vs. Frame
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First time home buyer: Brick vs. Frame

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  • Posts 51
  • Votes 4

Elsa M.
from Wheaton, Illinois

posted almost 3 years ago

Hi everyone, I know this is a silly question but, do you guys prefer brick over a wood frame multi family? I really like brick, but they are a bit harder to find within my price range and there seems to be more wood frame properties.  What are your thoughts? Should I wait until I find brick? The 2-3 unit properties I find in Chicago are mostly built in the late 1800's to early 1900's.  What are your thoughts on wood frame properties? I plan on keeping and renting for the long haul. 

Thanks!

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  • Posts 26
  • Votes 4

Donald Aleshire
from Chicago, Illinois

replied almost 3 years ago

Hi Elsa, I think the preferred is always brick. But with that being said, it will most likely cost more than a framed house.

The brick has a lot of advantages (fire, longevity) but I personally think A Frames are solid investments too. They are both common in Chicago but don’t let an A Frame detour you from a purchase.

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  • Posts 51
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Elsa M.
from Wheaton, Illinois

replied almost 3 years ago

Thanks, I was thinking, what about termites in A frame homes.

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Jill F.
Investor from Akron, Ohio

replied almost 3 years ago

Hi Elsa,

I have read that traditional structural brick houses are rarely built in the US these days because modern frame houses with brick veneers are both cheaper and offer structural advantages. 

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Mike McCarthy
Investor from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

replied almost 3 years ago

I don’t think the construction type matters much. More important is the age and upkeep.

All types of houses have their own type of issues, but again, mostly based on upkeep, repairs, and renovations.

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Elbert D.
Real Estate Entrepreneur / Investor from Chicago, IL

replied almost 3 years ago

In this comparison I have a personal preference for brick. Although there are some really nice framed homes in B and C class areas. Brick has insulation issues though so there’s always pros and cons to most things. It’s not like brick is perfect.

But to me I’ll take Stone over both. Followed by a tie between concrete and brick. But they all have there pros and cons. 

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  • Posts 7
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Lukasz Lisowski
from Niles, Illinois

replied almost 3 years ago

Hi Elsa,

The difference between the two is in exterior walls only, but both have similar floor structure and bearing walls (beams) in the middle.  If there is no water damage to the frame, no foundation issues, termite or mold problems wood structures should be standing just fine. 

Termites are not that hard to find if you know what to look for.  Termites feed on wood, and they usually get into the buildings with areas excessive moisture (leaks, frame in contact with soil, etc). I'm certified in WDO (wood destroying organisms) inspections, let me know if you need to check on any of the properties you consider.

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  • Posts 51
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Elsa M.
from Wheaton, Illinois

replied almost 3 years ago

I will, thank you!

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