My house is very similar to the ones in the pictures, especially the first one. Mine was built in 1914. It's now in a Historic Protected area, which doesn't affect my house except some rules for the front.

Most of my friends have opted for newer homes and have to suffer through the growing pains and lower quality. The older houses have usually adjusted, the trees have grown and previous owners have usually done sensible things somewhere along the line.

Check for a I-beam in the basement for a centre bearing support. If it's there, great. If not, get an estimate on doing it. That's usually your biggest surprise expense in an old house like those two.

Always remember, you're really working for your time off. If this gives you more time and close enough income, that's the equation.

How far off the main highway is it?