There are just some things in life that are hard to explain until you’ve been through them. Among them, childbirth, the death of a parent, and a home renovation. So be patient while I try to update you on the renovation of our historic 1922 home in the Elizabeth neighborhood.
It’s been about a month since I first told you about the project and our plans.
Now, if you have read any of my past posts about renovations you know I like to “free flow” write or what I like to call “free fall” when I’m in this phase of renovating. See, there really is no point in trying to pick one topic create a clean little story on or create the illusion that we have cleared one phase and are onto the next without changes and surprises. Nope, the best way to report on my renovations is to just free fall (It’s OK if you have the sudden urge to hum Tom Petty right now. Go ahead). Because that’s what the experience is like. Free-Fallin.
Since starting the reno at the beginning of January the demo went smooth… well, mostly. The demo crew was fast, efficient and tidy but as often happens with renovations, they also uncovered some fun surprises. I love calling the surprises fun because seriously, you have to appreciate the adventure in the process or you would just drive yourself crazy with frustration wondering what you got yourself into. In this case, the crew discovered totally rotten and eaten away joists under the floor in the downstairs master bath, Asbestos covered ducting in the wall cavities and a giant lead drain pipe conspicuously hovering over the new kitchen space that had been repaired by duct tape some time in the past. I’m all for being cost-conscious with home repairs, but duct tape? Awesome! (yep, more sarcasm. Isn’t it ‘fun’?)
Progress didn’t totally stop while accessing and addressing these super fun surprises. The plumbing work has gotten really far down the road. Framing is mostly complete and lots of choices have been made on plumbing fixtures and lighting. Oh and kitchen cabinets have been ordered thank you Lee Tripi. These are the kinds of small achievements that keep me hopeful and shine a little light on the future glory of this beautiful home.
So I know I may come across a little snarky and sarcastic, but to be honest, I’m feeling pretty calm about the status of our reno. The energy efficient reno I did a few years ago prepared me for the worst and so far that hasn’t happened.
The team we are working with is so professional. Thank you Cam Montgomery of Montgomery Hobson. You make me feel that I’m actually not in a free fall — at least not by myself. We knew to expect surprises and it’s only money, right?
Hopefully the next update will be more about good progress and pretty stuff. I love the pretty stuff part of the renovation. You will too! Stay tuned… and if you’d like to try your hand at your own renovation, and are ready to invest in a flip home then give me a call and we can talk about some options available right now!