Renovations are transforming. Especially when they include the exterior and the interior. In older homes, they reveal an entirely new perspective of the space. They are energizing and create spaces where people walk in and relax. It’s often as if a weight is lifted from their shoulders when they walk into a house and find that it doesn’t need any work. Truly, a move-in ready space.
With this house, the location is a 10 and we accepted an offer less than 48 hours after we listed. It happened to be the first showing. As she said, “I walked in and knew it was my house.”
The main floor had plenty of opportunities to create “moments”, details and spaces that didn’t exist before but that once added, felt as though they had always been there.
Exterior and Entry
The exterior siding of the house was a creamy yellow shade when we purchased it. It was in good shape, but it didn’t fit with the overall look of the house style or the neighborhood. Replacing that exterior with a wide white shiplap style siding fit the Classic Cape Cod style of the home. It also co-ordinated with the shingle color (which was newer and not replaced) and the original brick detailing around the front door. This house is on a raised lot so the ¾ glass front door still provides privacy. I also painted it the same charcoal blue as the kitchen island.
In addition to the front closet in the entry, we built a custom bench on the other side. The detail on the back is repeated on the kitchen island end panels.
Living Room
Of all the rooms in the house, this space needed the least amount of renovation. We updated the fireplace details and installed a new mantle. Black tile was installed on the hearth and the original hardwood floors were sanded and stained. Fresh paint throughout and some comfortable staging sofas and chairs were the finishing details.
Kitchen and Dining Area
So this area was a source of some serious decision making when we were working on the plans. There were two options with the kitchen. We could have simply opened it to the dining room and maybe added a short peninsula OR we could make the 3 season porch a new dining space and go nuts by adding an 8-foot island. For me, I was 100% sold on the kitchen island idea.
With the finishes that homeowners are looking for (white cabinets and quartz cabinets), I also added small, custom details. Custom corner shelving, custom-designed end panels for the island, and a custom crown installed above the pantry cabinet.
When renovating on a budget it is key to stay in line with the investment and the return. When you flip houses that may not be your own, you definitely want to take the time and thought to create spaces that buyers want. Knowing what those items (whether exterior or interior) are ahead of time will help you as you look at potential properties. As you are preparing your budget and offer, you will be accounting for these features from the beginning.
This post may contain affiliate links to help you shop and find the items I use and decorate with. If you purchase I could make a small commission at no charge to you. Please read my disclaimer here and privacy policy here.
Amber
Want to buy a property and renovate it?
I have a freebie checklist that will help you — 8 Things I look for When Purchasing a Home. Just click here to download it.
Love before and afters?
Follow us on IG @thresholdhomesmn and FB @thresholdhomesmn to see the projects we’re working on. And for more ideas on renovating & restoring fixer-uppers!
Looking to buy a house to renovate? Check out the fixer upper checklist to help you find the house with the most “flip” potential.
For more inspiration follow me on Pinterest @thresholdhomesmn
Leave a Reply