DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH

Earlier in the month I wrote about 28 South Street in Hamilton's popular southwest Kirkendall neighbourhood. It first came on the market at $469,900 and is now down to $429,900. If I wasn't so obsessed with my current home I would totally make a move on this FRESH PIECE OF BRICK. You on the other hand should totally go for  it. Trust me, I've seen a lot and if you were able to negotiate $380,000-$399,000 you could be confident in your investment. Turn-key houses are being snatched up in this area without hesitation in the low to mid fives (some in the low sixes). This south of Aberdeen locale is quiet, family friendly, and close to schools, parks, trails and the uber popular Locke Street.

Diamond in the Rough

I recently checked out the open house and I was acquainted with why this 1847 beauty isn't flying off the shelf. It all comes down to bling and flow and this place has neither. But someone with imagination could easily change all that.

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Imagine a period-style gate and fence at the front of this lot (see inset), framing the propety set well back from the street. Layer on some landscaping and surface care to the exterior to reveal the original limestone facade.



Next comes the major work on the inside. Connect the living room and kitchen areas to the right and left sides by opening up and re purposing the current full piece bath and utility space that runs perpendicular to the two. Rework it all to be open and airy and find a way to work in a powder room for guests. The upstairs has the bedrooms and another bath. Redo the bath so it is fresh and bright but consider vintage finishes like a claw foot tub, and a basket-weave or herringbone tile floor. Add more space by building off the back of the house which is not subject to heritage designation. Perhaps even a sun room or expanded master suite with ensuite. Keep the backyard as an urban space with interlocking stone, a hot tub and a dining area. The front can become the grassy play area as the street is quite. Additional privacy can be created out front by planting cedars and/or hedges along the edges of the iron gate (a la secret garden).

Remodel with Vintage Touches

Landscape to create an Urban Oasis