[Source: Michelle Park, Arizona Republic] -- Before she rehabilitated a historical home, Catlin Court resident Lori Green said changing a light bulb was about the extent of her home-improvement skills. Now, after installing a toilet, digging a sewer line and treating window stress cracks, the executive director of the Catlin Court Historic District Association said she can do "just about anything." On Saturday, Green spent about an hour sharing the lessons she's learned about historical home renovation with an audience of more than 20 at the Glendale Civic Center. Her program, "Remodeling Your Historic Home: A Case Study," was one of several sessions offered during the first Home and Heritage Fair, held on the last day of the fourth annual Arizona Historic Preservation Conference.
In sharing the chronological story of how she renovated the house at 5845 W. Gardenia Ave., Green imparted advice, identified mistakes she made and earned laughter with tales of misfortune. Having a vision for a property and devising a solid plan are two things those interested in rehabilitating historical properties should do, Green said. Selecting a property that fits one's lifestyle is important, too, she said. About 30 days after Green moved into her house on Gardenia Avenue, the air-conditioning died. After that, her washer and water heater sprung a leak. Using the problems as prime examples, Green strongly encouraged property owners to take out homeowner warranties on everything and have property inspections. "Either A, hire a contractor, or B, buy some tools," she said. [Note: To read the full article, click here]
