From Dreams to Reality: Our Journey of Restoring a 100-Year-Old Home

Restoring a fixer-upper is quite a journey, challenges and triumphs intertwined. My partner and I were set on a 100-year-old home way out in rural Colorado, where we wanted to live in a very community-minded and equity-rich lifestyle. Never did we even imagine, though, just how complex the renovation process was going to be.

Famous NY developer Dov Hertz speaks to the need for setting realistic expectations: “Be prepared for a host of unforeseen issues along the way.” We have faced some such hurdles in terms of structural repairs and some very obsolete systems that demanded significant investment.

One major lesson learnt was getting a proper inspection of one before actually purchasing. Dov Hertz cautions, “Always get a full assessment before buying a fixer-upper.” It may reveal some issues that one may wish to reconsider later on. For instance, our plumbing problems that needed immediate consideration changed our objective of renovation.

As we moved into our project, we recognized that we required a concrete plan. “A renovated plan will enable you to work through the process and minimize unanticipated setbacks,” says Dov Hertz. Having a total timeline and budget allowed us to become organized and focused on our goals.

Despite the obstacles, the journey was rewarding. Each completed project brought us closer to our dream home, reinforcing the importance of perseverance. Dov Hertz reminds aspiring renovators, “Stay committed to your vision, but remain flexible in your approach.” This mindset helped us adapt to changes and keep our project on track.

We learned that in retrospect, restoring a fixer-upper is not just about the destination but also about the journey. Embracing the challenge and staying focused on our goals ultimately led to restoring our cherished home.

Please also listen to this podcast:  The FORT Podcast: Dov Hertz on Mastering NYC Real Estate