In the hot neighborhood of Ryan Place, where demand is insanely strong and inventory persistently low, you'd think it wouldn't take much to turn a long-term rental property to sale-ready status. Northern Realty Group agent Lisa Logan was tasked with such a challenge at 2509 Willing Ave., which looks lovely from the outside, but was in need of some serious interior refreshing.
“I can’t emphasize the importance of something as basic as a good paint job,” says Lisa’s husband, Shanon Logan, a seasoned construction engineer. “Just removing the accumulated layers of years of bad paint work and starting fresh does a great deal to improve a first impression.”
The 2,200-square-foot Craftsman, built in 1919, has all the right basic components: three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a pair of charming stained-glass windows in the living room. By painting the red brick fireplace white and unifying the trim and wall color, the windows now emerge as two jewels.
Paint also calms down the entryway and dining room, which went from blue and red, respectively, to a sophisticated Ralph Lauren Suede and a crisp white. A set of random closets that closed in the vestibule (originally created from the front porch) have been banished, while a pair of French doors — a salvage yard find — lead into the living room.
Beadboard ceilings in the living and dining room were partially stripped, echoing the appealing walls. Shanon subtly altered the tonality of the house, cleverly taking into consideration varying light.
The washer and dryer were originally visible from the living room, but new doors and a dryer screen keep the room concealed without losing the open feel. Wherever possible, period fixtures from Old Home Supply replaced later generic additions.
In addition to the cosmetic upgrades, the unknowns likely to turn up on an inspection report have all been dealt with too. Priced at $299,000, this home is an incredible value per square foot in the current market.
---
A version of this story originally was published on Candy's Dirt.
The home at 2509 Willing Ave. is listed for $299,000.
