Best Tips to Renovating an Old House in Charleston, SC

With about 30 years of experience of renovating old homes and about 50 renovations under my belt I can say I have seen a lot of old wood, chipped paint, and have been up to my eye balls in dirt and grime. I have put a lot of hard work and love in to each home I have restored. There have certainly been sleepless nights wondering if I was crazy for taking on such a project.

Tired and hurting muscles and a tear from time to time from the stress. But it’s what I love and I always have a vision each time I see an old historic home in need of repair. Sometimes I see a vision for a property that others cannot see and they think I am just plain crazy when I purchase the property.

So if you are ready to take on a renovation I have a few pointers: Remember this is a real life project and not HGTV! As many others I love to watch the HGTV transformations. But remember the 30 minute to an hour program does not show all the headaches and problems that arise and the real time frame.

Hire a good contractor. Make sure your contractor is an expert on older or historic homes if that is the type property you plan to renovate. A good contractor is invaluable. Luxury Simplified Group has an expert team when it comes to renovations and historic projects.

Leave room in your budget for unknowns. Whenever you start ripping out walls, ceilings and working on an old home you never know what you will discover. I can assure you that there will be an unknown problem found. I had one home that had a new panel box and new wiring – so we thought.

Ripping out a floor discovered original knob and tube wiring connected to the new wiring. The entire home had to be rewired! A big blow to the budget. Be realistic on your time frame. Things happen, Weather, a contractor or artisan can fall behind due to several things. In a renovation the items fit together like a puzzle.

If one thing is off or behind it always affects something else. Add more time and if you finish before good for you. Do not rush your project. Stick to your budget. Make sure you do not over extend yourself. Do not spend more in your renovation than the resale value.

A REALTOR® can provide valuable information is this area. Enjoy the project! Taking on a home renovations is a major and stressful project. But enjoy the transformation of your home. I find the transformation so rewarding and exciting.

Such a sense of pride and accomplishment to bring one of these old jewels back to life. Now are you ready to take on a fixer upper or restore a wonderful historic property? Then I am the REALTOR® for you. Thank You, Lisa Patterson.