Home Makeover: Ashland Edition
What do you think when you see peeling paint, rotten flooring, and an overgrown yard?
Some people see these things in a house and think, “Get me outta here!” But a real estate investor might see the potential—and okay, maybe a balance sheet—but mostly potential!
When I first purchased 613 Vaughn a few years ago, I knew it had potential, but it was going to take some work to get there. One of the bathrooms was literally falling through the floor—five layers of flooring told a story of quick fixes over the years as a rental. Another patch wasn’t the way to go here; it needed a fresh start.
So, we got to work.
Since we were taking this bathroom all the way down to the bones, we decided to make it more functional as well and completely reimagined the layout. We replaced those worn out floor joists, and I even got “hands-on” with tile work around the tub. The result wasn’t just a new bathroom but a space that finally made sense for everyday living. With those thoughtful upgrades, it quickly rented.
For years, the property served as a rental, but when the long-term tenants recently moved out we decided it was time to revisit 613 Vaughn. This time, the kitchen was the focus. Again we could see the potential and we knew it deserved a thoughtful upgrade.
At first, we weren’t sure whether this would be a quick refresh before new tenants moved in, or something more transformative. But as the project took shape, it became clear: this house deserved the right renovations.
From closet design to layout tweaks, we focused on what would make the home truly functional and inviting.
We wound up taking on a bit more than we originally envisioned but we are having fun, and the finished home is really going to be sharp!
Here’s what we’re doing:
** We’re giving the kitchen all new cabinets and relocating the sink beneath the windows. Now natural light will brighten the space.
** We’re updating the flooring to durable vinyl laminate, and the walls and ceilings will be professionally painted. (Hint: trim and door paint are game-changers!)
** Beadboard and new trim are going up to give the home more character, and a touch of electrical work will tie it all together.
** The old windows were replaced to make the home more energy-efficient.
** We remodeled the bedrooms with more functional closet space, and added new egress windows.
Sometimes, a thoughtful remodel can completely change a property’s story—and its value.
What started as a rental in need of some maintenance to attract good tenants has been transformed.
613 Vaughn will soon be ready for its next chapter thanks to a vision of what's possible, some elbow grease, and a commitment to doing right by the home. It will be the perfect starter home for a local family.
If you’re curious about how upgrades like these can enhance a property’s value, or resale value, either as an investment property or as a single-family home — or if you just want to chat about real estate in general, call me or send me an email— I’d love to hear from you!
Kevin Porter
Porter RealtyFocused on You, Invested in Our Community