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What to Look for in a Fixer-Upper

How do you know if an older home as the potential to be something greater? We asked Rudy Dvorak of Los Angeles design/build firm Reinhabit what he looks for to determine if a home is ripe for a remodel

Joanna Linberg
1 /6 Lisa Romerein

One wall to tear out

“Open floor plans are in high demand, so we look for homes with kitchen and eating spaces or kitchen and living spaces divided by a wall we can tear out,” Dvorak says. It’s a relatively easy demolition that changes the entire floor plan.

2 /6 Lisa Romerein

ID a view

“Everyone loves a good view, so we try to find undiscovered opportunities to embrace one,” he says. The potential for a view from a future rooftop deck and terraced outdoor spaces are examples of what he considers.

3 /6 Lisa Romerein

Raise the ceiling

Space is always at a premium, but when you can’t get it, Dvorak looks for the chance to lift or vault the ceiling to add airiness. Bonus points for high ceilings in public rooms like the living room or kitchen.

4 /6 Lisa Romerein

Easy outdoor updates

“Curb appeal is always important,” Dvorak says. “Restoring vintage windows, adding new vintage redwood, and painting a house historically correct colors delivers big bang for the buck.”

5 /6 Lisa Romerein

Natural opportunities for convenience

“Convenience adds value,” Dvorak says. “We look for chances to add modern conveniences, like a laundry shoot from upstairs to downstairs.”

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About Reinhabit

Reinhabit is a Los Angeles real estate development firm that focuses on updating old homes (some at risk of being demolished) for modern living. The firm focuses on rehabbing homes using salvage materials and green building standards.