There are many benefits to buying an older house - from a cheaper asking price to bigger rooms with an array of original features. But despite the pros it is no secret that period properties often come with unprecedented problems.
Buyers who are taking on a renovation project in a dated home commonly come across hidden issues including mould, leaks, electric and plumbing issues - which are just some of the problems Claire Bakan faced after buying her Victorian house in Tameside and doing a DIY renovation.
Claire spoke to the Manchester Evening News as part of our Where I Live series. Each week, we chat to a different homeowner about their buying and renovation journey, and take a look inside to see how they've transformed their home.