We recently purchased a home in the Village of Chippewa Lake, and while it may not look like much on the surface right now, this project is about far more than bricks and mortar (or vinyl siding). It's an investment in our community and in the long-term future of a Village we love.

This home has been neglected for quite some time. The previous owner passed away, and a close friend lived in the house for the past five years. When we purchased the property, we did so with all of its contents, knowing it would take time, patience, and a clear plan to bring it back to life.

Clearing the Way for a Fresh Start

One of the first (and biggest) steps was clearing out the home. We hired Move My Mess to remove all of the personal property from the house, and they did an incredible job. Going room by room made it clear just how much work lies ahead—but it also gave us the clean slate we needed to move forward.

Along the way, we came across some interesting and meaningful items that told pieces of this home's story. We'll be sharing more of those finds at a later date.

A Home That Needs Some TLC

The reality is this house needs a lot of work. The previous owners were smokers, and years of deferred maintenance have taken their toll. This is not a quick cosmetic project, but that's okay. We went into this eyes wide open, with a plan.

Our goal isn't to rush. We're planning to begin renovations in the spring, taking the time to do things thoughtfully and correctly. Restoring homes like this requires vision, respect for the past, and a commitment to the future.

Taking Care of the Outside, Too

Curb appeal and care matter—especially in a small community. We brought in Josh Palko and his crew to maintain the yard, and they've already made a noticeable difference. Keeping the exterior tidy is a small but important step in being good neighbors and responsible property owners.

Why This Matters to Us

This purchase wasn't just about real estate—it was about Chippewa Lake. We believe in reinvesting locally, restoring homes responsibly, and contributing positively to the fabric of our Village. Projects like this take time, but they're worth it.

Before

After

As the renovations begin, we'll continue to share updates along the way—the challenges, the progress, and the moments that remind us why we took this on in the first place.

This house may need work, but it also has potential, history, and a future—and we're excited to be part of that story.

Here's a photo from closing day, which was also my BIRTHDAY!