When you buy a remodeled house, you are paying for the improvements. If you have to remodel again, it may be better to find an "untouched" house where @ least you won't be paying for someone else's recent work.

Don't be fooled by the appearance of a remodeled older house. A house that appears to be run down may be in no worse condition than a recently remodeled house. Often a remodeled older house has hidden flaws that are apparent in a house left untouched.

Recently applied wall paneling may hide deteriorated plaster.

New ceiling tile may be attached to a ceiling damaged by water leaks or broken lath. It is necessary, as a prospective buyer, to be able to spot problems in an older house rather than wonder what might be behind walls covered by a quick & easy paneling job.

Buying a house solely because of charm may be the biggest pitfall of all. Have a clear idea of your needs before you look: when working with a Realtor or Agent, make sure you express those needs to him or her and save wasted hours looking @ inappropriate houses. Make your purchase offer on the house contingent upon completion of a thorough inspection (by a qualified inspector).