Client Spotlight// 1920’s Bungalow Remodel in Coronado Historic District
Austen and Holly, the duo behind Simply Staged Phoenix, bought their first investment property in Downtown Phoenix— a 1920’s bungalow in Coronado Historic District. The front house, a 2 bedroom/1 bath, with a detached garage in the back. With plans to fully remodel while also honoring the original craftsmanship, they had their work cut out for them.
Like a love letter to the past, their restoration efforts speak volumes to their integrity and vision. It’s as if they dusted off 100 years of layers, letting the original artistry of the bungalow shine. Just as impressively, is how they turned the garage shell into a fully functioning guest house with a kitchen and bathroom.
Lessons were learned and a few tears were shed, but the final product is truly a work of art. Scroll for before & after photos and a few Q&A’s with the first-time investors.
What most inspired you about this home?
“The historic nature of the home was definitely a huge inspiration for us. Having the opportunity to work with a home that had so much original character in the windows, the arches, the built ins, etc. It was an absolute joy to be able to bring a craftsman back to life. The opportunity to take on the detached garage as a blank slate was an added bonus.”
Before & After of Kitchen, Dining and Living Room:
What was the most challenging part of the remodeling process?
“The most challenging part of the remodel, particularly as first timers, was learning the time value of money. We were excited to get our hands dirty and learn some new skills. While we wouldn’t trade what we learned, I think we were fortunate that the additional time spent on the project didn’t hurt us in the long run. If time is a concern it’ll almost always be worth paying for a trade. In terms of the work itself I’ll never forget sitting on the bathroom floor chipping away at the penny tile - unmeshed - and calling my wife wondering what sort of mess we got ourselves in to. I’m not ashamed to say I cried that day lol.”
Before & After of Bedrooms and Bathroom:
What do you feel most proud of?
“We were most proud of feeling like we kept the homes original integrity. Some of the most impactful updates, like exposing the brick, were really just letting the home do the work for us. We were also really proud of the detached garage conversion. We felt like we really utilized the space well, and the design really allowed it to feel complementary to the main structure - but was done well enough to stand on its own as an adu.”
Before & After of Garage Conversion to Guest House:
What is your advice to someone looking to buy an investment or do a remodel?
“Our advice would be don’t forget about the things that drew you to a home to begin with. Highlight the things that make a home special or unique. There will be a buyer that appreciates those things too, there is plenty of cookie cutter projects to choose from - you want yours to stand out!”
“Our second transaction with John was for an investment property in The Coronado Historic District. A home built in the 1920’s that I don’t know if had ever really been renovated. John was great in that process. He has a knowledge that goes above and beyond a typical realtor. He gives a fair and grounded perspective of what type of work may need to be accomplished to make a property either profitable as a rental or to renovate and re-sell. ”
Holly and Austen are truly wonderful people who also happen to be incredibly talented. This project speaks volumes to their integrity and artistry.
Simply Staged Phoenix is our go-to vendor for staging our listings. They excel at, both, staging and interior design. Holly’s eye for detail and ability to make spaces functional allows buyers to effortlessly see themselves in the home. We highly, highly recommend them!
Their website here.
Reach out to us via our Contact Page and let us know how we can help you accomplish your real estate goals.
-Johnny & Amanda, Homes of Phoenix Team