Pictures included - major structural issue or easy fix???

[Mason Bear]

Hello BP Community,

My partner and I each own or own home, have one buy and hold under our belt, and have been studying the BRRRR methodology, which is how we plan to scale.

We're interested in a duplex (built in 1915 - not an uncommon age for our market) that needs a pretty solid overhaul. The one area of concern are some major cracks on both the interior and exterior/front step. As a next step we would walk the property with a foundations expert, but, who better to get some opinions from then the excellent BP community!

Can these interior cracks be fixed with some drywall compound, a fine-grit sanding sponge, and some sweat equity, OR are these a symptom of larger structural issues?

It would be great to hear from some structural engineers/foundation experts or those that have dealt with similar issues. THANK YOU!!

[Isaac Pepper]

@Mason Bear I am not the guy to be able to provide a cost for a fix. Especially since I havent seen the property in person and dont know your area and what labor goes for there.

If you plan to move forward reach out to a structural engineer and/or a experienced contractor. If you end up closing on this you should immediately address the water issue. Water issues are the #1 way to destruction. Re-direct the downspouts away from the structure, if the house is below street level dig a dry well. Ensure the gutters are clean and drain towards the downspouts. Put a dehumidifier in the basement and drain it to a floor drain or sink if there is one. At this point you can begin to address the structure shift.