We have all imagined what the house of our dreams would be like, the style of architecture, the colors, materials, the garden… However, renovating a home can be more straightforward, cheaper, and challenging (in a funny way) than building one from scratch.
We spoke with Laura Zaragoza, an interior designer and architect specialized in remodeling homes, about the benefits of buying a property with an old house and restoring it.
Passionate about interior design since she was a child, Laura has put all of her creative energy into helping to transform spaces. Here are some tips to renovate an old house and transforming it in your new dream house:
Higher quality structures before renovating
It is no secret to anyone that with the advancement of technology building materials are very different than fifty years ago. Unfortunately, it does not mean that the materials and techniques used today to build are better than in the past. In reality, many of the materials and processes that were used before are of better quality.
Therefore, acquiring a house that has a well-made foundation could save a lot of time, money and effort. A good structure that has already survived many years can serve as a basis for any modification that you want to add or improve.
A well-made structure can last for decades without any intervention. Usually old houses have structures of much better quality and durability.
Laura Zaragoza , Diseño & arquitecturaWork already advanced
When acquiring an old house, probably some structures such as flooring, electrification, skeptical tank and pipes are already made so you will not have to worry about the basic constructions of the house. It is important to check the state of these with an expert, because in case of being in poor condition it may not be such a good idea to invest in that property.
You will be able to use your creativity to work with what is already done and adapt to the existing structure. This could give you economic and time possibilities to focus on personalized details that will give your home that touch you have always dreamed of.
The main thing is to review the property before buying it and consult with an architect who will ensure that you can take advantage of the existing structure and thus achieve a successful real estate investment.
Your perfect home probably doesn’t exist yet but any space already created can be modified to make that dream come true. A good base structure is the perfect model to become a great investment.
Laura Zaragoza, Diseño & ArquitecturaStrategic Location
Many areas of our country have been populated that for reasons of work, study or community have been attractive to the population, such as the Greater Metropolitan Area.
Buying an old house and restoring it in areas of great urban movement and development, is an opportunity to have the house you always dreamed of in a strategic location that allows you to be close to educational centers, places of work and recreation in the surroundings of the capital.
Many of the houses located in these neighborhoods were built many years ago, when San José was a small town so structures are of good quality and many of them maintain a vintage colonial style that with a little intervention the result could be very elegant, cozy and modern.
The challenge of buying an old home and restoring it can be an excellent investment. It is the perfect canvas to put your creativity to the test without spending too much.
If you are interested in knowing investment opportunities in Costa Rica do not hesitate to contact our specialized advisors by area, who can help you find the perfect option to invest wisely.
