How do I know if my old house in Saint John is worth renovating?

Determining if your older Saint John home is worth renovating depends on several key factors, but many heritage and vintage properties in the port city offer excellent renovation potential when approached strategically.

Start by getting a professional home inspection to identify major structural, electrical, and plumbing issues. In Saint John's older neighborhoods like the South End, Uptown, and areas near King Square, you'll often find homes from the 1870s-1920s with solid timber construction but outdated systems. Look for signs of foundation settling (common with stone foundations), knob-and-tube wiring that needs complete replacement, and galvanized plumbing nearing end of life.

Calculate your total investment against the neighborhood's market values. A full renovation of a Victorian-era home in Saint John typically runs $150-$300 per square foot depending on the scope. If you're looking at $200,000+ in renovations, ensure the finished value will support that investment. The South End and Uptown areas have seen steady appreciation, while some older industrial neighborhoods may have more limited upside.

Heritage considerations are crucial in Saint John. If your home is designated under New Brunswick's Heritage Conservation Act or located in a heritage conservation area, you'll need approval from the city's heritage officer before making exterior changes. This can add time and cost but also provides access to heritage tax credits and grants. Contact Saint John's Growth & Community Services at (506) 658-2835 to check your property's status.

Major systems evaluation is critical. Homes built before 1950 often need complete electrical upgrades (TIS-licensed electrician required), new plumbing rough-in (licensed plumber required), and modern heating systems. Many Saint John homes still rely on oil heat - converting to a cold-climate heat pump system runs $8,000-$15,000 but qualifies for NB Power rebates and dramatically reduces operating costs.

Consider the bones of the house - original hardwood floors, high ceilings, solid timber framing, and architectural details like crown molding and original windows add significant value when restored properly. Saint John's Loyalist and Victorian homes often have exceptional craftsmanship that's impossible to replicate affordably today.

Get multiple contractor estimates for major work and factor in permit costs through the City of Saint John's building department. A realistic renovation budget should include a 20% contingency for unexpected issues - older homes always reveal surprises once walls are opened.

Your next step: Schedule inspections with a structural engineer and an electrician to assess the major systems. This $1,500-$2,500 investment upfront can save you from costly surprises later and help you make an informed decision about whether to renovate or relocate.