Renovation: In the Beginning

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Have you ever pondered the question “What have I gotten myself into?” Fortunately for me, the decision had already been made that we would renovate this property. Otherwise, I would’ve done a 180 and made a run for it … Buuut, the show must go on.

Driving up to the property prompted a feeling of uncertainty; but when I walked thru the front door, the whole idea was overwhelming.  Every inch of the property was beyond comprehension.  The floors, walls, ceilings, everything looked insurmountable.  The floors were sticky, the walls were a shiny dusty grayish white with brown gunk streaking them, some of the ceilings were black.  I saw a blanket in the corner … Who used that?  There was nowhere to stand that felt safe. I thought I may need to throw away my shoes.  My mind was racing … I need gloves, I need a mask, I’m about to throw up, I need a hazmat suit!  I am not exaggerating.  The smell was inconceivable.  Who lived here? How did they live here? Why did they have to live here like that? At this point, I am speechless, but I must get myself together so I can come up with a reno design plan. Unable to take a deep breath (because of the smell), I stepped outside to the front porch.  I had no choice because the back door was nailed shut to prevent intruders.

I had to quickly get over myself and get to work.  We have to make this a safe and sanitary place for future residents.  That’s all we could do.  We can’t change what has taken place in the past.  We have to work with what we have and look toward the future.

We decided not to change the footprint of the 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom house.  Sometimes you just have to use what you have and make it better.  So here’s the plan, replace and repair walls, install insulation, repair and replace ceilings, repair subfloor and install new flooring, replace light fixtures inside and out.  This project required a complete rewiring of the electrical, relocating the water heater, removing a huge antiquated electric heater in the living room, siding installation, replace windows, painting inside and out. Let’s not forget the tree removal, land clearing, landscaping, grass seeding, replacing cabinet and countertop, repairing porches, steps, and railing.

That is a very long “to do” list. But no worries.  We are committed to transforming this property. 

Stay tuned to see the progress.