Tuesday, July 18, 2017

The Not so Cozy Cottage - The Before Photos

So, I should preface this post by mentioning that a top local realtor, who knows this neighborhood really well, has predicted this project won't go well.

You would think that would have stopped me from making an offer.

But it didn't.

And while this will surely be our least profitable project ever, I think it can be really, really wonderful.  I get lots of requests for small cottages with one floor living - at an affordable price.  And this will be just that!  It's only 750 square feet, but we'll make sure it has really beautiful features and finishes.  With lots of style!

But I'm getting ahead of myself.  Let me share our starting point.

So how would you describe it?  Small?  Nondescript?  Some have said blah and bland.  Would you just drive by it and never notice it? 

Inside, it's pretty tired.  Built in 1962, it's been used as a rental for many years and is showing lots of wear and tear - not to mention end of life issues, but hey at 55, they probably need replacement.  

Here's the view inside the front door.  Not exciting, but a nice sized room, with great hardwood floors.
Living room, with kitchen beyond

And the kitchen.  Probably updated in the 90's, it's ready for a refresh!

I think the bathroom was done somewhat recently - but I'd like to start fresh, take it back to the studs, and do lots of updates.  

The master bedroom is a nice room and with windows on two walls, there's light and airflow.


And there's also a small second bedroom.  I don't understand why that window is so tiny.  It looks over the nice big backyard!  But you'd have to be over 6 feet tall to look out there.  Obviously, we will be changing that.

And the basement, well, I'll share more about that later.  But this will give you an idea.

So, does it need a lot of work?  Absolutely!  Do we know all the problems yet?  No way!  But it has lots of potential and can be a sweet little house.  We're still working through the plans - and I hope to share them soon!





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14 comments:

  1. Work your magic Laurel! You always do!

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  2. those beautiful trees are money in the bank, er your pocket. I am with you on this one . I think it is very charming.

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  3. In regard to the tiny window, we had that type of window in all the bedrooms of the house I grew up in. They allowed light and air into very small rooms without taking up any wall space that was needed for dressers or beds or other furniture. I don't know why but they always captured whatever breeze was available and cooled the house better than standard double-hung. They are not up to code now of course. But with the other window in the room already, I suggest making it a clerestory window and extend its length but not its depth, if more light is what you are going for. Just my 2 cents! This house will be charming for sure whatever you do.

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    1. I can certainly see the logic of that! But it's rare to have such a big, private backyard in this neighborhood and it will be so nice to have a pretty view out that window!

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  4. This is so much like the first house I owned, except it had a third bedroom and another 200 square feet. It also had a lot of large trees on its lot, which does give a house charm. I've owned, and built, larger and prettier homes since then, but we had made that one really cute and homey, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. I can't wait to see what you do with this one.

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  5. Wow, I love this little house! It has great potential and I can't wait to see what you do with it.

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  6. Love your blog!!! I just discovered you shortly before you started the last project, and I've had lots of fun reading through past posts. I wouldn't be scared at all to start this. It will be a very charming house when you're done with it.

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  7. Also, we bought a two story fixer upper as our own home 20 years ago, and we just watched the walk through video we did shortly after we moved in. Our kids were appalled at the condition of this old house and couldn't believe we'd be brave enough to tackle such a project. Aren't you glad you can see potential in these home? I sure am!!

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    1. Ha ha!!! That sounds hysterical. We were always updating houses as our kids grew up - but never had the forethought to do a video. I'm sure they would have had the same reaction as your kids! And I'm still not sure they think renovation is a fun as I do :-)

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  8. I am so excited to see you tackle a bare bones ranch! So many times blogs choose projects where everything is there, it just needs cleaning. I'm excited to see what you will do with a blank slate that is actually a small house. Again, so many blogs are like "my TINY 3000 sqft house"!

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  9. I'm excited that you're taking on this small house. Yay for thinking small and sustainable! I'm betting the realtor is going to owe you lunch on this one! I think the right person will love this sweet little home.

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  10. I think this house is charming! I can not wait to see what plan you come up with. You are so talented, I just love seeing these homes being made beautiful again.,

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  11. I also just found your blog and was delighted to find out that SoPo is short for South Portland. I grew up in Brewer, Maine and all things Maine excite me. My husband and I are moving back to Maine in the spring! I agree with all the previous posts...this little house is a charmer. It will be out of our price range as everything in the Portland area is, but I know I'm going to be drooling over it when you are done. I'm excited to see it come together.

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    1. So glad you discovered us! And so nice to hear you'll be coming back to Maine. It really is 'the way life should be'!! We love it here!

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