Kyle Hislop

  Over the years I have seen some pretty strange renovation that people have done to their homes.  I've seen a shower in the master bedroom - not a bathroom - not an ensuite - just a shower in the master bedroom.  I've seen people use shag carpet as underlay when installing laminate flooring.  Every step it would bend and crack - basically a floating floor with waves.  One of the scariest - I've seen people take out load bearing walls to open up the kitchen and living room.  In the one that I saw the ceiling was falling down, and that was the way they left it; it was listed as a fixer upper!!
  I don't often take pictures when I see these strange "upgrades", however, on this occasion I couldn't resist.  This was a home for sale in Abbotsford.  Picture a basic B.C. box style home and I am in the master bedroom looking out the window to the backyard.  Only I'm not just seeing a backyard - oh no - I can also look straight into the brand new ensuite that was erected.  Directly below the window is the toilet and across from it is the vanity (no shower).  Notice the wall cutting the window in 2.  Also, I'm sure Tassels are no longer in style...hold on while I check my Better Homes and Garden Magazine...yup - TASSELS ARE NOT IN STYLE!!!
 
I would love to have heard how this conversation took place between the husband and wife.
 
Husband - "Ok, wife, I realize that the deck off the kitchen prevents us from pushing the bathroom out that direction but no worries - I'll just cover up half the window."  
Wife - "But what about my privacy?"  
Husband - "Baby, it's nothing I haven't seen before".  
Wife - "I need my privacy!".  
Husband - "Alright - Alright - how about I hang some wicked awesome tassels over the window, is that enough privacy?".  
Wife - "That's the ticket - thanks honey". 

  Just a couple of thoughts when doing any upgrades to your home.  If you suck at carpentry, don't do reno's.  Often it is worse than before and it just creates more work for someone else.  If you have some skill - take your time - read or watch video tips - and, for the love, use the right materials.  Baseboards and crown moulding are not the same thing!!

  At the end of the day a clean home that's been well taken care of and looks organized goes a long way.  When people see that you care about your home and take pride in how it looks they are more apt to make an offer than a home that has a lot of sloppy reno's.

Cheers,

Kyle Hislop
RE/MAX