Pier Beam vs Concrete Foundation

[Victor N.]

Hi all, 

Buying a rental property for the first time, and saw a video advising against concrete foundations. Anyone who can some insight into this? It's a new build that I'm looking at. Thanks. 

[Matthew Tyson]

Where are you located? You may not have that option depenmding on location. In my area in San Antonio, only the older homes. pre 1960'ish will have pier and beam. I love them, easy to access for the most part but almost always require some foundation repair or replacement. Concete slabs aren't bad as well, depending on their condition. Just make sure when you are inspecting them before you buy to get a good idea if they feel out of level. Look for cracks on walls near doors and window, cracks on exterior masonry if it has brick or stucco. If I am looking at a home with a slab foundation and there is some dropoff around corners, I am not too worried. Easy to fix. But major changes, especially towards middle of home are worrisome. Those may require major work and internal demolition to remedy, you could also be looking at costly plumbing repairs as well. I asked my go to foundation guys what they prefer to work on, and interstingly enough they said they would rather work on slab than pier and beam, unless they have to tunnel.