Family Home Restoration is a Labor of Love
In my early twenties, I had a dream. My beloved maternal grandmother had recently passed away and I longed to live in her old home, nestled in the mountains of upstate New York. I had such wonderful memories of the joyful summer vacations my siblings, cousins, and I used to spend there, exploring
Posted — UpdatedIf your grandparents are still alive, ask them for details they remember about the home's original construction and appearance. They will likely be proud to watch the home restoration take shape. Perhaps you will eventually host them for special family occasions just as they hosted you in years past.
There are several ways to acquire ownership of a family home. You might purchase it from family members, buy it from current owners who have no familial connection to you, or inherit it. In the first case, you will need to negotiate the tricky area of whether to request a professional inspection before putting your money on the line. (In the second case, of course, an inspection is a must.) Make sure that your whole family is on board with your plans for the property to avoid disagreements further down the road.
Identify the era and the style of the home (for example, Craftsman, as in the photo accompanying this article) so you can best preserve its character and integrity. Use classic materials and period-authentic design. And while you're going to the trouble of restoring the home, why not repair and reupholster the original furnishings as well?
Safety issues are paramount if you are taking on any part of the reno as a DIY job. Watch out for ancient wiring, falling plaster, and similar hazards.
Renovation or remodeling is always a tricky business, notorious for coming in over budget, and restoration of an older home, especially if it's long been neglected, even more so. It's highly probable that you will need to live elsewhere for many months, paying rent on top of a mortgage, while the work is proceeding. Make sure that you are financially prepared.