Now that the dust has settled with the house and the Mills Act contract has been approved, it is time to start prioritizing other projects- the sidewalk, curb, and driveway apron need to be replaced, the lot needs to be landscaped, the patio needs to be tiled, the permitted structure in the back needs to be rebuilt, the garage needs to be rebuilt . . .if I look at the list too long I get dizzy . . .
Where to start? It is important to prioritize.
- Complete the patio. The lights are strung along the pergola, just need some Saltillo tile to finish it off and enjoy.
Next steps: I am gathering tile estimates.
- Replace the damaged sidewalk, curb, and driveway apron. Prior to embarking on landscaping the front of the property, the concrete work needs to be completed in concert with the irrigation system plan. The City of San Diego has a 50/50 program- eligible applicants pay half the cost of replacing damaged sidewalk (aprons excluded) here is a link.
Next steps: After being told my property did not qualify for the 50/50 program because not enough of the sidewalk was damaged, I am contesting. Stay tuned.
Next steps: After being told my property did not qualify for the 50/50 program because not enough of the sidewalk was damaged, I am contesting. Stay tuned.
- Landscaping- this is a big one . . . after all the work on the house, the landscaping needs to:
- Compliment the house
- Enhance curb appeal in the front and south side
- Be drought tolerant
- Provide comfort, beauty, character and good utilization of the space in the back
Next Steps: Decide whether to use a landscape architect or individual vendors
Directly, gather estimates. More on this in our next installment.
- Rebuild the permitted structure in the back. Since the house has only two bedrooms, I feel making the structure a “casita” or “mini me” of the house would add value. This structure could serve multiple functions- home office, home gym, guest room, serenity room, etc.
Next Steps: After activities 1-3 are tackled I will get estimates for this and the garage as 2015 projects.
Consider me your resource for all things real estate! Selling, buying, upsizing, downsizing, relocating, investing, vendor referrals, shoulder to cry on during renovations and more. Just send me an email or call me at 619-888-2117.
San Diego Real Estate LAB 