What Does it Mean When a House Has “Good Bones”?

Does your house have good bones?

When shopping around for a home, you may hear that a home has “good bones”. However, you may not be sure what this means. In general, a house with good bones means that while the outside of the home isn’t the prettiest, underneath it all, the home is in great shape. Here’s how to tell if the home has good bones.

1. The floor plan flows

A home with good bones has a floor plan that flows well. This means that it’s easy to get from one area of a home to another and that related rooms are next to each other. This can be shown through a kitchen being next to the dining room or a bedroom being next to a bedroom.

2. No need for major repairs

These homes typically need little to no work in terms of major repairs. The infrastructure in the home, such as the foundation, electricity, and plumbing, are all in good shape and do not need to be replaced.

3. Cosmetic updates

You may need to complete a few cosmetic updates in these homes. Typically, these updates are just things such as painting walls, updating a kitchen or bathroom, or other small changes to make the home more suited to your style.

4. Quality materials

The home is constructed of high-quality materials. Oftentimes, older homes will be built with higher quality lumber than in more recent construction. Homes built of brick and stone, that are still in good condition, are great as well.

5. Plenty of light and spacious

Homes with good bones typically feel more spacious and less cramped. This is usually attributed to bigger rooms and high ceilings. Additionally, a home with good bones has large windows that help to bring in plenty of natural light.

6. Architectural details

Elements such as exposed beams, beautiful paneling, baseboards, intricate moldings, and fireplace mantels all lend themselves to giving a home good bones. They give a home an intricate and unique look.