A couple of friends who know that I recently purchased a home in need of massive renovation told me that I should begin putting together a blog about what all is involved, the process, tips and cost.  This diary, in additon to my regular blogs will attempt to tell the story.  When I can I'll tell you the 'how to' of the job and the overall cost.  I'm the first to admit that I can be thrifty and am always looking for a good deal.  I'm also the first to say that if I think we'll get better results or more ROI by spending some additonal money then I will.... on with the diary....

The beginning of the story -

This year has been a monumental year in my life.  I won't go through all of it, but let's just say that some days I feel like curling up in my pajamas with a cup of coffee and not leaving the house (or my bed) at all.  Moving certainly became another disruption, but this time maybe of the good kind because I always feel better after a good day of hard labor.  I like to look back at the hard work, sweaty, tired and sore and see the fabulous change we created.  I guess it's like working out for some people - something I also used to take great pride in when I was younger, but seem to avoid when possible now....

Ready to downsize we started looking for another home and eventually agreed that we should earn some sweat equity instead of buying move in ready.  Now with that said, as a professional home stager I would say that buyers like me are few and far between and when we are shopping we are looking for rock bottom prices, keeping all the equity for ourselves.  After many offers that went unaccepted (remember, we were looking for rock bottom prices) we finally found the perfect one, and negotiated what we feel was a great price on the home - less than half the going rate of a renvoated home. 

Our new home is 2900 sqft, 5bdrms, 3.5 baths with a great yard and in a good neighborhood that I deeply love.  This project is not for flipping (though the process might be similar) it is for living in... we are planning on moving in around Halloween....

Master Bedroom

Den

Kitchen

Living Room

If you want to view the full tour of the home visit:  http://tour.previsite.com/EF6CEBDA-F3D0-276F-1B25-F260949C1B6A

As work progresses, I'll add new tours and new before and after photos.  When I can, I'll also include tips, costs, etc.  If you are planning on trying some of this at home, feel free to ask questions and I'll see what i can do to help you!!