This the first article on the redesigned Millennial Living website. We'll pass along tips and advice that you can use when renovating or improving your home. These are based on our own experiences in remodeling homes in the Washington DC metro area.

Before the current renovation, this home lacked curb appeal. It had 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a separate living room and dining room, dated kitchen, large screen porch to the side, and an unfinished basement.

Here’s a curbside view of the front of the house before and after the renovation and landscaping.

Before

Now it boasts an open floor plan, large family room, deck, front porch, two kitchens (one on the main floor and the other in the basement). Every room in the house was renovated.

After

As you can see, that large white gable over the garage on the left is gone. This was replaced by brick. The enclosed porch on the right side became a family room. According to neighbors, the most appealing element of the renovation is the front porch and its columns.

Truth be told, the renovation was not easy and took a lot of time. We had a good idea of what we wanted and plans to guide us. However, when you begin renovating bathrooms and opening walls, you never know what you will find. Keep this in mind. After nearly 50 years of use, things need to be replaced, especially if a home was not properly maintained to begin with.

Looking back, it might have been easier to tear down the house and start over. That should be a consideration for any homeowner and is best discussed with an architect and builder.

What's Next?
In the months ahead, we’ll share our experiences in renovating this home and others. We’ll touch on all aspects of home remodeling in a series of articles organized under the headings to your left. We’ll tell you what to look out for and what to avoid. Remember though, "Your mileage may vary".

What we pass on is based on our experiences with contractors, tradesman and in selecting materials for the jobs. Hopefully, you will benefit from this and share the material with your friends.

Much of the subject matter of this site pertains to the details- no matter if its on traveling, moving, money and home ownership. Some readers might find this a bit too much. However, at the end of the day, you will find that it is the attention to details that will save you a lot of money and in the end produce a fantastic renovation, move, or trip that will provide enjoyment to your family.