A selective remodel respecting both the budget and the past
The glazing of several windows was replaced however all aluminum frames were kept in the original condition. The dark stained main body cedar siding was in good condition & only the gable end lap siding needed to be repainted. The landscaping was trimmed and additional grass seed planted. The driveway & retaining wall were pressure washed to give the home better curb appeal.
The original 1958 cabinetry in the kitchen & bathroom had character and the intent was to preserve it. The counter top & backsplash of faux marble plastic laminate needed to be replaced.
A new neutral toned granite counter top & stainless steel under mount sink were installed. Removal of the vertical portions of the old laminate caused damage to the plaster wall and to avoid a taller over-large granite backsplash, we added a decorative tile strip above to conceal the damage. The cabinetry was deep cleaned & coated with urethane wood sealer for durability and a refreshed aesthetic. New period appropriate hardware was installed.
In the bathroom, the counter top was also removed & replaced with granite. Additional decorative tile work was added beneath the new mirror.
All the light fixtures were replaced with those sympathetic to the home’s era of construction. The hardwood floors were refinished & in some areas replaced due to excessive pet urine damage. The stain match was artfully done by a local floor repair company so new wood matched seamlessly with the original wood.
There can be a tambula rasa type mentality when starting a foreclosed home project. Wanting the end result to look its best (and be competitive) can justify complete removal of older cabinetry and a full repainting of the interior & exterior. The stained dark living room wall (photo below) for example could easily have been painted to help lighten up an overly dark space and the 1958 kitchen & bathroom could have had brand new cabinetry installed for a fresh look. We felt the original character of the home needed to be respected & maintained as much as possible. We’d be saving money from a financial standpoint and certain buyers would appreciate it - a win / win. We were not wrong as the home went pending within days of being listed.
