Abby Brothers, 33, and husband Trey, 35, transformed a neglected mansion, boosting its value by £588,100 ($745,000).
Acquiring the property for £122,399 ($155,000) in June 2018, the couple embarked on an extensive renovation journey, chronicled on Instagram (@turningthepagemansion).
Despite skeptics calling them crazy, they fell in love with the 6,000 sq ft colonial revival brick manor in Aberdeen, North Carolina, built in 1913. Abby, a registered nurse, shared the motivation behind the project: “We wanted to restore our home into just that – a home.”
“We wanted to keep her that way; it is our forever home,” she added. The property, left untouched for over 30 years, required comprehensive updates, with original features dating back to 1913.
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The absence of central air conditioning and challenging radiator heat posed additional hurdles. The neglected state of the mansion, coupled with roof leaks causing severe water damage, made it a daunting task.
The dining room floor had given way, necessitating new floor joists and flooring, along with roof repairs.
Engaging in hands-on contributions, the couple started the transformation by replacing windows and exterior brick sections. Abby emphasized their involvement in every project,
stating, “We helped with the demo, and we also had our hand in every project, in some form or fashion.” The duo’s dedication to revitalizing the mansion as their permanent residence reflected a commitment to preserving its original character and history.
Trey played a crucial role in the renovation, refinishing terrazzo floors and crafting concrete countertops. The couple, along with family members, engaged in various DIY tasks, such as laying tiles and interior painting.
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They creatively repurposed a sleeping porch into a second hangout spot, complete with a lounge, TV, and mini-fridge. The entire transformation spanned nine months, concluding just before welcoming their son Wim in December 2020.
With a project cost of £211,800 ($268,494), the value of the home significantly appreciated, now estimated at £710,100 ($900,000).
Abby shared the sentimental value of their home, stating, “Our home is priceless to us.” Despite initially loving the property in its dilapidated state, their affection has deepened as they’ve witnessed the remarkable transformation.
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Acknowledging the flaws, Abby emphasized their ability to overlook them in appreciation of the unique, strong, simple, and cozy character their home now exudes.
Describing themselves as an ordinary couple in an extraordinary home, Abby encourages others to consider purchasing and renovating old homes, expressing a continual interest in such projects. She highlighted their eagerness to save another old home if given the opportunity and resources.
The couple joyfully welcomed a new family member, their seven-month-old daughter Eloise, making Christmas extra special as a family of four. Their festive preparations include decorating four large trees and two small ones, adorning staircases, windows, and the porch with lights.
While anticipating more projects after the holidays, they’re currently savoring the festive season.
Sharing their incredible transformation on Instagram, they gained over 1,700 likes and numerous comments from impressed viewers. One person commended them as “amazing” and admired their beautiful home.
Debra playfully described the house as “sexy,” and another person praised, “You did her right!! What a beauty!”
Someone else labeled it their favorite home on Instagram, while Kathleen recognized the substantial investment, referring to it as a “money pit” but commending their incredible achievement.
COST BREAKDOWN:
- Masonry: $5,000 (£3,900)
- Siding: $3,600 (£2,800)
- Roof: $27,900 (£22,000)
- Windows: $22,800 (£18,000)
- Partition Wall: $24,100 (£19,000)
- Plaster/drywall: $32,000 (£25,200)
- Wood trim: $2,500 (£1,900)
- Wood floors: $28,200 (£22,200)
- Plumbing: $26,600 (£20,900)
- Electrical: $30,000 (£23,600)
- Heating: $44,800 (£35,300)
- Insulation: $13,000 (£10,200)
- Cleanup: $10,700 (£8,400)
- Miscellaneous: $2,000 (£1,500)
Total: $268,400 (£211,800)
This comprehensive breakdown showcases the financial investment required for their ambitious renovation, resulting in a home of increased value and beauty.
READ MORE: Couple transform MUSHROOM-INFESTED home for just £6,000 – adding £50,000 to property value
