Andrea Jensen and her husband found a home in Southern California that needed significant work due to its age and condition. Built in 1978, the house featured outdated elements like dirty wallpaper, worn linoleum, and a popcorn ceiling, along with stained carpets and signs of water damage.
Upon receiving the keys, the couple quickly initiated renovations. In the family room, they removed the popcorn ceiling, retextured the walls, and updated the trim and lighting. In the kitchen, they faced a more extensive overhaul, stripping everything down to the studs due to black mold.
To save on costs, they retained the room's original layout while hiring professionals for the installation of cabinets, countertops, floors, windows, and doors. Friends helped with the backsplash, while Andrea and her husband handled the installation of drywall, sink, appliances, hardware, open shelving, and LED lighting themselves.
The total cost of renovating the kitchen and family room amounted to about $30,400. Although the couple completed the major renovation within months of moving in, Andrea considers the space a "work in progress" as they continue to enhance it over time.
Andrea notes that the renovations have transformed the home, making it feel brighter and more spacious. She expressed a desire for lighter flooring, humorously commenting that dark floors are challenging with a light-colored dog.
