When is a cracked foundation a bigger expense than the house?

[John Hodson]

Hi BPers!

I'm getting close to close on a property and there are cracks in the foundation that the inspector found. I'm asking the inspector for a more detailed analysis of these cracks so I can decide if the foundation will be a big expense in the lifespan of this property. I know my mom went through some trouble with our old childhood home that had a major foundation problem where the ground was eroding away and the house was slowly cracking. It's very expensive to lift a house.

Has anyone else had a similar issue? What would you say is a deal breaker from some cracks in the foundation? Again, I am asking my inspector for a more detailed analysis to see if it is minimal or extensive. Thanks all!