This article could be a huge guide on how to transform a run-down property into something spectacular, but that would give an incredibly long article. Instead, we’re going to get straight to the point and show you how to turn an old barn, run-down apartment room or cottage into something that you can be proud to call your home. Whether you’ve inherited a run-down property or purchased one cheap at an auction, there are plenty of ways to turn it into a home.
Transforming A Run-Down Property
Retaining Character
If the property is a barn or cottage, then you may want to preserve its character. This will help the barn stand out and it will keep the country charm that it has. Stonework, cladding and overhead beams are essential to an old property’s charm and character. Try and preserve these if possible. Show off the property to the best of your ability. If done correctly, you’ll be rewarded with a unique and wonderful home to call your own. However, it’s understandable if you want to only preserve the structure and replace the insides with something more modern and stylish. Each to their own, but do keep in mind that you could be losing rustic charm and appeal when transforming these older properties. That’s a big decision when buying a run-down property.
Repair What You Can, Replace What You Can’t
If you want to preserve the charm and tradition of a property, then it might be worth spending a little extra to fix or renovate certain parts of the home instead of replacing them. For instance, you could opt for stove repair instead of replacing it with a newer modern model. The same applies to things like bookshelves and fireplaces. An older run-down property might have iconic designs that would be a shame to demolish. There’s nothing wrong with investing a bit more into fixing it and restoring it. However, if it’s simply not practical to do so, then don’t dwell on it and get rid of it.
Add Personality
There are plenty of ways to add a bit of personality to your run-down property. Consider placing travel memorabilia or family photographs, or bring some nature into your home by adding different plants and flowers that you’ve grown yourself. This is an excellent tip if you tend to your own garden and want to breathe some life into your home. Adding some flowers and other types of natural decor can be a great way to give your home a personality boost.
Embrace Its Flaws
Is the home a little small? Are some of the walls a little cracked and run-down? There are some flaws in properties that simply aren’t worth the time and effort to renovate and fix. If your home has a flaw that you find irritating but is too much to replace, then you could embrace it as part of its charm. This is usually the case when renovating barns and cottages. The structure of those buildings is usually sound, but there might be a few interior decor choices or room layouts that bother you, but there’s nothing wrong with simply accepting these.
Of course, there are many other ways, both big and small, to renovate a run-down property. But these couple of tips should give you a place to start. Embrace the flaws you find, add some personality, and try to keep its original character. Trust me you will be happy you did in the long run.
Have you renovated a run-down property? Or are you looking to purchase one? Let me know in the comments below.
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