Are You The Kind Of Person Who Could Handle An Old Home Restoration?

Old home restorations hold obvious appeal. As well as generally being affordable, old disrepaired properties have undeniable charm, character features galore, and the promise of one of the most beautiful living situations you could imagine. There’s just one problem – they typically need a whole load of specialist work before they can live up to their potential. 

While it’s easy to fall for those thatched roofs and stone-mullioned windows, it’s important to realise that a project of this size doesn’t suit everyone. However, there are some key signs that you could handle that old home restoration project after all, and we’re going to consider them here. 

# 1 – You Have an Easy-Going Nature

An easygoing nature is something you need if you’re going to restore an old home. This is especially true if you’re considering a listed property, where you’ll be continually butting up against regulations, restrictions, and other setbacks. If you’re easily stressed, then this project really could become your worst nightmare. 

By comparison, someone who has a knack for rolling with the punches will easily ride those restoration waves and, importantly, will keep a cool enough head to always find a way around them. This perseverance is the only way to ensure renovation success, so ask yourself – have you got it, or would you be better off cutting your losses?

# 2 – You’re Willing to Put in the Research

Old home restoration is far from simple. With listed properties, in particular, a haphazard approach simply won’t cut it!

Instead, you need to be willing to find everything from the best natural stone walling to match your home’s original style, to window companies with experience in classic styles like sash or stone mullions. You’ll need to delve into your home’s history, as well as ensuring the expertise of any company you choose to work with. 

And, of course, you’ll need to check with the local authorities before you implement any of this on a listed property. If you don’t fancy hours in front of the computer, then think again. If research makes your heart sing, then this could well be the calling you’ve been waiting for. 

# 3 – You Have Access to Alternative Accommodation

Let’s not kid ourselves – old home restorations take time. You certainly won’t be in any position to move into your new home within the first year or so of ownership. And, considering that average rents in the UK are now up to £1,223 per month, most people aren’t in the financial position to renovate an old home and rent a private space in the meantime. 

Hence why you’ll ideally ensure access to alternative accommodation before committing to this project. Remaining in an existing home while work’s happening is a particularly desirable setup. The ability to stay with friends and family could also ensure the viability of a project of this scope. 

Old home restoration isn’t for the faint of heart, but do you have what it takes to make this work for you? 

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.