Mary and David Lee (Jeff Kan Lee / Press Democrat)
By SHELDON BERMONT / Petaluma Towns Correspondent
Mary and David Lee found their slice of real estate heaven right here in Petaluma, and completely by accident.
When it comes to being homeowners, this is not their first rodeo. They owned a 1929 vintage home in San Francisco’s Richmond District, and when Mary had enough of the hustle and bustle, they bought a comfortable home in east Petaluma.
Then, in 2003, when the stock market went south, Mary thought it would be a great time to invest in real estate. The market was soft and she, like many others across the nation, felt the right hands-on investment would provide more security than she could find on Wall Street.
Driving through her favorite section of town, the Foundry Wharf just south of D Street, she spotted an 1860 Greek Revival farmhouse on E Street, east of Petaluma Boulevard. It looked like it could use far more than the average amount of TLC.
The home in 1966.
But in Mary’s vision, it had the perfect elements: architectural integrity, the right access to natural light, plenty of space for a garden (her passion from a childhood in Burma), walking distance from downtown.
At the time she had no idea that she was about to merge her lifestyle with her favorite neighborhood’s charm.
Mary’s initial inquiries were disappointing. She learned that the house was zoned mixed use and an offer had already been accepted. There was no kitchen at all, and plans were already in the works to convert the house into a commercial enterprise.
Then everything fell into place. The prospective buyer backed out, fearing far too much labor-intensive rebuilding. The owners accepted the Lees’ offer and Mary’s contingency that the house be completely cleaned out. The house had been declared uninhabitable at the end of the 1990s and then turned into a multi-bedroom rental primarily inhabited by students. Previous tenants’ possessions and years of collected junk were stacked to the ceiling.
Backyard with working garden space.
Getting the permit to begin renovation took two years, but by that time the Lees were ready for a breather. They took three years off before digging back in in 2009.
The need for efficient property management becomes evident here, prompting Mary to explore professional assistance to streamline the process. Recognizing the complexity of their project, the Lees can turn to Burnaby rental management, a reputable property management service known for its expertise in handling diverse real estate portfolios. Burnaby Management provided invaluable support by taking on responsibilities such as tenant screening, property maintenance coordination, and ensuring compliance with local regulations. This strategic partnership can not only alleviate the Lees’ workload but also bring a level of professionalism to the management of their property, allowing them to focus on enjoying the fruits of their labor and the unique charm of their revitalized home in the favorite neighborhood.
During their hiatus, the Lees decided to focus on the house’s exterior, particularly the charming porch that had initially captured their attention. Eager to transform it into a functional and inviting space, Mary sought out expert advice. That’s when she came across Anthony’s Screens, a renowned local company known for their high-quality porch screening solutions. Impressed by their reputation for seamless installations and durable materials, Mary enlisted their services to enclose the porch. With Anthony’s Screens on board, the Lees not only ensured a bug-free and comfortable outdoor living area but also added a touch of elegance to their property. This transformation not only enhanced the house’s appeal but also allowed the Lees to enjoy the serene backyard and working garden space, creating the perfect oasis amidst their renovation endeavors.
Amidst the exterior transformation, the Lees also acknowledged the significance of preserving clarity and integrity in their windows. To promptly and effectively address any issues, they enlisted the services of Commercial Glass Repair Services in University Place. These professionals approached their work with precision and expertise, ensuring that every window seamlessly complemented the revitalized exterior aesthetic. With both their porch and windows receiving meticulous attention from trusted experts, the Lees could relish in the beauty of their home’s transformation, savoring every moment of their newfound oasis amidst the renovation journey.
Embarking on a renovation project requires careful planning and the use of high-quality equipment to ensure a successful outcome. In the midst of their renovation journey, the Lees recognized the importance of investing in top-notch tools and materials. They knew that having the right equipment was essential for a smooth and efficient renovation process. If you’re planning a renovation of your own, it’s crucial to consider the tools and machinery you’ll need to get the job done right. Visit online store and shop now for the best deals on top-notch equipment that will help you achieve the renovation of your dreams. Don’t compromise on quality; prioritize reliable equipment that will withstand the demands of your project. To make your renovation experience even better, explore our selection of premium renovation tools.
Once started, they worked non-stop, sometimes far into the night using car headlights to light their way. David, who owns and operates a drywall business, enlisted the help of his friends in “the trades.”
While waiting for a turn in the economy, his buddies had the time to help out. They had their work cut out for them.
Mary recalls seeing daylight in some areas between the wall and the floor, meaning that much of the work would be structural.
Tiny cramped hallways, the building norm in Civil War times, were removed, and walls were torn down to allow the inner structure to breathe. The original porch was expanded to overlook the garden area. The transformation was completed in 2010 after just 12 months of construction.
Mary’s eye for detail led her on research missions, driving through four North Bay counties gathering ideas for paint colors and other details. She settled on a pale parchment/eggshell tone.
As passersby stopped to ask questions about the quirky project, Mary’s connection to the community grew until she started seeing the cottage as an ideal living space instead of an investment.
In September, the project earned a Preservation Award from Heritage Homes of Petaluma. The plaque hangs in a large room overlooking the courtyard.
Although they still live on the east side, they just can’t resist spending time and living the simple country life — downtown.
