A couple were able to build their dream home at age 19 and 20 by transforming the ugliest house on their street.
In today’s economy, the prospect of buying a house is dream for many young professionals, couples, and families. Even if you scramble to save as much money as possible to save up to buy a home, it may need a lot of renovation before it’s ready to be lived in.
One couple, who love all things DIY, bought their first home together before the age of 21. The duo bought a property that dates back to the 1920s – and had not been redecorated for 70 years.
The couple, who have been sharing their journey on their TikTok via @ourhomeproject_, said the previous owners lived in the house for 60 years. The pair said: “We absolutely fell in love with this 1920s house. We always had a vision of buying a renovation property but had so many obstacles along the way, being just 19 and 20 when purchasing this house.”
The pair got these keys in April last year, and have been renovating since. The three-bedroom has had a full rewire, brand new central heating system, and the upstairs has been transformed.
Filming a tour of the house, one co-owner said: “So last April, me and my boyfriend decided to buy the ugliest house on our street and basically completely renovate it and start from scratch all over again.
“For a bit of context, this house had not been touched for about 70 years, which is how long the previous owner had been in it. We just saw so much potential with this house.” The pair said the house was filled will newspapers dating back to the ’60s.
The DIY lover said the property is “so spacious” and the couple were able to get much more for their money, in comparison to a more modern or new build home. They have also found plenty of hidden space such as a large walk-in cupboard in the kitchen, which they plan to turn into a pantry.
They added: “So for us, buying this was sort of a no-brainer. It is a lot of work, and I feel like you can see in the videos that it just needs a complete facelift.”
The pair managed to save for the house by consistently adding money into an ISA account. “We just made sure both of us were consistenly putting money into our ISAs,” she explained. She also said they saved up pennies in a money box too, plus cut down on luxuries like eating out and ordering takeaways.
The renovating pair also advised to slowly build up your furniture collection while renovating, so once move in day arrives, you can make a start on furnishing your property. From testing out paint sample, to furniture shopping and ripping out walls, the duo have been inudated with support since documenting their renovation online.
“At 19 and 20, well done!,” commented one. “Wow, looks good guys,” said another.
One other wrote: “Congratulations on your new home. Love to see it when it’s all done up.” “You’re both doing amazing,” another commented to show support.
Have you renovated your home? Comment below.