Marshall And Swift -typical Building Lives

[jay trotta]

It Depends on where you live and the season cycle the dwelling is in contact with; Given that most people get bored or have an inkling to Improve what they have, generally (10-20 yr cycle) would determine (not specifically) the life cycle.
In my area, most improvements run on a 10-15 year cycle or the new buyer changes that happen within a year (the offer & acceptance) on changes (wish list) after obtaining the dwelling. We have housing here from the 1600's and most are in good shape, only because their improvements have happened at various times in their life cycle. A recent one (pre-1900) was purchased in town close to the Library and in need of work; P/P- $650,000+/- and renovated (sill plates & more) and the finished product was about, $1,900,000 but has a New Life (everything was done, no skimping) looks fantastic. Over the past few years several have run a similar course, so we may be at that period of time again for the aged dwellings in my area.

And no, they are not easy jobs to do, once anyone puts that type of money in, they are staying a while; even when the markets were Good, they are complex assignments. The 1910 to 1970 era were perhaps the best built (quality) new era, there was still a "pride in building" the American dream. From 1985 and up, it was the turn & burn ramp up production era and new innovation was the norm. They are all interesting cycles within the life of the dwelling for various reasons.

Good Luck in your area.

 

[Mike Garrett RAA]

I lived in Portsmouth, New Hampshire back in the 60's and there were houses that were more than 150 years old and still in good condition. First time I ever saw wood pegs used as nails.

I think if you read all of the notes in M & S you will get your answer. Also, the location of the property is a factor as humidity and insects play a part in lowering the physical life of an improvement.

 

[Noreen]

I believe their estimates are based on minimal maintenance and no updating. I've seen 150 year old homes that appeared brand new, and had the rehab costs to prove it. Its all about the maintenance.

Yes, if I remember correctly that was how it was taught in my AI basic courses.

 

[Noreen]

I lived in Portsmouth, New Hampshire back in the 60's and there were houses that were more than 150 years old and still in good condition. First time I ever saw wood pegs used as nails.

I think if you read all of the notes in M & S you will get your answer. Also, the location of the property is a factor as humidity and insects play a part in lowering the physical life of an improvement.

And the weather extremes, heat expands, cold contracts so exterior maintenance is really important here. Can make or break interior condition, i.e. leaky roof means wet, nonfunctional insulation.

 

[Noreen]

Yes, if I remember correctly that was how it was taught in my AI basic courses.

Yes, if I remember correctly this is how it was taught in my original AI courses.

 

[Howard Klahr]

according to them, a life expectancy of 55 years.

They report economic life not physical life. Have you ever considered extracting from local sales?

i think it's lower for public housing. they don't even try to rehab them. tear them down, and build something new.

Once again demonstrating what one doesn't know.

 

[Mr Rex]

The life expectancy of 55 years is based on when a major rehab is required and assumes normal maintenance. It should be taken in context of the Life Cycle chart near the end of the depreciation section in M& S that extends out to 180 years.