BRIAN'S STORY

Brian had always believed in the potential of old homes. When his tenant finally moved out of a house he had purchased back in 1998, he faced a tough decision: continue to let the property deteriorate or transform it into something remarkable. The house, built around the turn of the 20th century, was more than just a structure; it was a piece of history, rich in character yet worn by time. As Brian put it.

"The house was really not suitable for renting out… it was in very bad shape."

The decision to renovate wasn’t easy. It was a journey that would require patience, persistence, and the right partner. Brian knew that finding a builder who could breathe new life into the old house was crucial. After going through a lengthy process of council approvals, Brian cast his net wide, searching for a builder who could understand his vision and had the expertise to handle a project of this magnitude.

Brian's search led him to Abode Construction, a company that stood out not only for its competitive quote but also for its straightforward approach.

"Justin was one of those two"

Brian recalled, referring to the final two builders he had shortlisted. What set Justin apart was his hands-on involvement in the project. Unlike other builders who managed multiple teams and projects from afar, Justin was always on-site, personally overseeing every detail. This level of commitment resonated with Brian, who valued a builder who was not just a manager but an active participant in the renovation process.

As the renovation began, the challenges became apparent. The house was old, the renovation complex, and the process demanding. Yet, with Justin’s steady hand and clear communication, Brian felt reassured.

"He’s a very straightforward guy. He says what he thinks, and I liked that”

Brian noted, highlighting the trust and confidence that grew between them over time.

One of the significant hurdles was deciding whether to include a pool in the renovation. Initially, Brian was against the idea, thinking it would be an unnecessary addition. However, as the project progressed and with advice from real estate agents, it became clear that a pool would add significant value to the property. Brian and Justin worked closely, adapting the plans to incorporate the pool, demonstrating the flexibility and responsiveness that defined their collaboration.

The renovation took a year, a period filled with anticipation and hard work. But the results were worth it. The finished house exceeded Brian’s expectations, not just in terms of aesthetics but also in its resilience.

"The drainage on that site is just exceptional"

Brian remarked, reflecting on how well the house had withstood Brisbane’s challenging weather conditions.

The ultimate test came when the house was rented out. After nearly two years as a rental property, it remained in impeccable condition, a testament to the quality of work done by Abode Construction.

"We’ve been very happy with the result on the day"

Brian said, noting that the house had been thoroughly stress-tested by tenants and Brisbane’s elements alike.
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In the end, Brian’s journey was not just about renovating a house; it was about turning a vision into reality. With the right partnership and a shared commitment to excellence, what was once a dilapidated property became a timeless home, standing strong and beautiful—a true transformation.