Refurbishing a house, especially for first-time buyers, can be a challenging endeavor. Choosing to renovate an older property can be a cost-effective way to enter the property market compared to buying new homes. However, as you delve into the renovation process, expenses can quickly mount, and project timelines may stretch beyond initial projections.
Yet, the potential rewards are significant if you persevere. Customizing a home to your preferences can not only provide a personalized living space but also lead to increased property value and potential profits upon resale.
Greta and Liam, first-time buyers from Greater Manchester, have dedicated nearly four years to renovating their three-bedroom terraced house in south Liverpool, which they acquired for £185,000. Opting for a comprehensive back-to-brick renovation, they have successfully converted a dated property into a charming period home.
Greta Lawler, aged 30, from Stockport, recounted their journey in an interview with the Manchester Evening News as part of the Where I Live series, which features homeowners in the northwest sharing their home-buying and renovation experiences.
After meeting at university in Liverpool, Greta and Liam, originally from Wigan, decided to settle in the city. Saving up for a deposit, they began their house hunt with a budget of £200,000, aiming for a period property with original features like ceiling roses and fireplaces.
Their search led them to a property similar to one they had missed out on, which they purchased for £185,000 in June 2022. Despite its dated condition, they saw the potential and embarked on a full-scale renovation, starting with essential upgrades like rewiring and a new boiler.
Their renovation journey has been marked by challenges, including unexpected costs and delays. However, their hands-on approach, with help from family for major tasks like kitchen fitting, has helped control expenses.
Their design aesthetic leans towards a colorful mix, drawing inspiration from various sources, including Instagram. As they approach the fourth year of renovations, Greta and Liam have completed most of the downstairs space but plan to focus on finishing the upstairs rooms next.
Reflecting on the project, Greta acknowledged the longer-than-expected timeline and financial investments required. While they love their transformed home, Greta admits they missed out on leisure time during the intensive renovation period.
Learning from their experience, Greta emphasized the importance of finding a balance between renovation work and personal enjoyment to avoid burnout and ensure a fulfilling renovation journey.
