You definately have to enjoy a to-do list that is never complete with an older home. It is easy to be pulled in by the curb appeal of a Craftsman/older home and a "fixer-upper" project; unfortunately, lists have a funny way of compounding the more you work. Project A reveals problem 2 which initiates project B, C, D, and so on. "Fixer-uppers" can turn into a second career if you're not carefull. While Craftsman style homes can kick you while you're down, I would take the Craftsman over the majority of new construction any day. Most new homes slapped together under the idea of production tend to deteriorate rather quickly. You can't blame builders for trying to make a profit but their shortcuts can get rediculous. It's not a mystery why my parents home built in the 20's that's been moved is still rock solid: quality building materials and practices will always trump shortcuts and poor material. However, if it's in your budget, a new home built with "oldschool" technique coupled with newer materials--the ones that are actually worth something--would give the best of both worlds: a new Craftsman/old stlye home that will probably be around longer than even the best built older homes.