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A Beginner’s Guide to Restoring an Old House

a house with a garden

Finding your dream home is a journey that so many hopeful homeowners embark on every year. Sometimes you find the perfect property right out; other times, you may have to select a bit of a fixer-upper. Or maybe you enjoy the rich history of a home. If you are looking at restoring a historic property, this can be an exciting and somewhat demanding journey for you. But it can also reap some wonderful rewards.

Whether you’re restoring an old home for you to live in or flip the property for sale, there are definitely a few things you should know before you get started. Unlike modern properties, you may need to redo certain parts of the infrastructure or essential systems completely. Historically, the property owners may not have needed running hot water or a working AC unit, but these are things you don’t want to live without. As you start your renovation, here’s a beginner’s guide for your old home.

Find your property and make a plan.

Before you can even think about restoring or upgrading a home, you need to find the perfect property. Look for a place with a good structure and location that you can have fun upgrading. Once you put the offer in and get approved, you need to make a plan. Work with a general contractor to decide how you want the remodel to go. Be specific about budget and timeline so you don’t get duped in the end. Knowing how you want the whole thing to play out will help you stay on track down the line.

Upgrade your infrastructure and appliances.

The infrastructure, systems, and appliances in your home are some of the most important elements of your property. One of the first things you’ll want to do is check out these fixtures and improve them. For example, many old houses may not have a water heater, or they may have an old model. Speak to a technician about tankless water heaters as the best way to get hot water to your dishwasher, faucets, bathtub, shower, and more. Install a system that will work for your home and last for a long time. The best team will help you understand the nuances of these systems and do a great job getting your home updated.

Check the plumbing and electricity.

The next step is to secure successful plumbing and electricity. If these systems are outdated, they could affect the entire project in a negative way. Work with an electrician or plumber to guarantee everything is in good working order. In some cases, this could mean an entire bathroom model. Professionals in Florida can help with a Tampa bathroom remodel to get you a new bathroom that is completely up to date. Make sure the plumbing is successful while you get to chose a new tub, fun tile for the floors, and a beautiful vanity. The possibilities are endless with these updates.

Give the exterior a facelift.

The interior of your home isn’t the only thing you have to worry about. Look into giving the exterior a bit of a facelift. Whether that’s new landscaping, a fresh coat of paint, or new window units, these little touch-ups can make a massive difference for your overall home.

Have fun with your interior design.

When you’re planning your home, have a little fun with the interior design. Keep some of the historical elements or go for a totally modern look. Get inspiration from magazines or work directly with an interior designer. While you’re living in a historic building, this is your chance to put your own spin on things with a comfy and cozy living space.