Upper + Lower Level
The latest top to bottom flip project is complete and we’re taking a look at each of the 3 floors to see how the renovations took this home from a classic craftsman to a light and bright charmer.
In case you missed the first post on this latest house make sure to head here to check it out.
Picking up this week with the upper level and the lower level of the Craftsman Renovation.
Where it Started
With this house being a two story home there was more room to work with from the very beginning. There were 4 bedrooms and one bath on the second level which didn’t align with what most buyers want in a layout. Most often, they are wanting the privacy of a master suite. That would include not only the addition of a new bath but also larger closet space.
Creation of the Master Suite
Combining two bedrooms to create this space took just a little bit of imagination. It’s one of my favorite ways to add a space that didn’t exist before.
The ensuite bathroom was able to accommodate a double vanity and a five foot shower. For design choices in this space I tend to splurge since this is a space that should leave an impression with buyers. Combining Carrara tile and classic subway tile is a tried and true way to elevate the look while staying within an overall budget.
Other finishes within this space include chrome lighting, pulls, faucets and mirrors (which are white metal framed). Since space was limited on the wall when it came to the mirrors it was more difficult to find the size that was needed. When space is tight theres a couple of options that can be used including having a custom mirror made by a local glass company. In this case, the size needed was able to be purchased but it was a bit more than the standard but the white finish was a clean and modern choice.
Hall Bath Upgrade
With the second floor hallway bath there was an existing radiator that was taking up just enough space to only accommodate a very small vanity. Since the heating system in this house was converted to forced air we were able to eliminate the radiator and reconfigure the bath for a larger tub and vanity. Since the entire space was updated all the flooring was also replaced with this grey blue herringbone tile that complemented the white and bright of the space so well. When laying out bathrooms a tip I use is to always allow for at least one to have a bathtub . Houses that have no bathtubs would be a hard pass for anyone who has kids or pets.
Adding Lower Level Space
The lower level only had a laundry area originally. None of the space was livable square footage prior to the renovations. Nearly 800 additional square feet was just waiting to be utilized.
With the new lower level a family room, laundry room, bedroom and bathroom have been added. And no gathering area is complete without a bar area. And this one has a happy accident type of upgrade in the form of a bar sink. The plumbers added it despite the fact that it wasn’t on the plans.
Renovation Choices That Added Value
The increased value in this home was entirely due to adding a bedroom in the lower level and two bathrooms. Even though overall the home stayed a four bedroom the creation of the upper level suite was a significant change that translated directly with value and appeal for buyers.
Increasing the usable space in this home and adding bedrooms and bathrooms created new an entirely new comparable profile for this home.
Maximizing the footprint of this original home and adding spaces that can be enjoyed for years to come allowed it to fully realize its renovation potential. And by carefully combining new elements with details that are not able to be re-created this unique home is truly one of a kind.
Ready to take that next step when it comes to flipping?
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Make sure you have the Fixer Upper Checklist so you know which areas are key to added value in a home.
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