Don’t Let the Old Wallpaper Scare You From a Great Deal… Here’s How to Find “Good Bones” in a House

-

 We’ve all been there. You walk into a house, and the first thing you see is floor-to-ceiling plaid wallpaper or neon green shag carpet. It’s easy to want to turn around and walk right back out. But here is a little secret from us at The Hardy Team: the "ugliest" houses often have the best potential.

When you learn to look past the surface, you can find a total "diamond in the rough" at a much better price. Here is how you can tell if a house has "good bones" or if it’s a pass.

1. The Layout Test

Cosmetic fixes like paint and paper are easy. Moving walls? Not so much.

  • What to look for: Does the house flow well? Is the kitchen near the dining area? Are the bedrooms a decent size?

  • The "Bone" Factor: If the floor plan works for your life, everything else is just a weekend project.

2. Check the "Feet" (The Foundation)

A house is only as good as what it stands on.

  • What to look for: Walk into the basement. Are the walls straight? Do you see major cracks or signs of water?

  • The "Bone" Factor: A solid, dry foundation is the ultimate sign of a house that was built to last.

3. Peek Under the Carpet

In many of our local Wisconsin homes, that old, dusty carpet is actually protecting a treasure.

  • What to look for: Find a corner or a closet and see if you can peek underneath.

  • The "Bone" Factor: If you find original hardwood floors, you’ve hit the jackpot. Refinishing wood is much cheaper than installing new flooring!

4. Look at the Big Ticket Items

"Bones" also include the systems that keep you warm and dry.

  • What to look for: How old is the roof? Is the electrical panel updated? Does the furnace look well-maintained?

  • The "Bone" Factor: If the "mechanicals" are in good shape, you can spend your budget on the fun stuff—like picking out new backsplash tile instead of a new water heater.

5. The Neighborhood Vibe

You can change almost anything about a house, except where it sits.

  • What to look for: Is the street well-kept? Are the neighbors taking care of their yards?

  • The "Bone" Factor: A "fixer-upper" in a great neighborhood is one of the smartest investments you can make.


    Looking for a home?  Give the Hardy Team a call today 414-378-9524.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Tuesday’s Tips: The “Hidden” Property Tax Deadline

-
  Welcome to another Tuesday’s Tip! We are officially in the "home stretch" of February, and while most of us are dreaming of spring, there are a few important dates on the calendar that Southeastern Wisconsin homeowners—especially my fellow real estate investors and landlords—need to keep on their radar. Property taxes aren't just a once-a-year December headache. In fact, right now is a critical window for making sure you aren't leaving money on the table for 2026. 1. The March 2nd Exemption Deadline If you are looking to request a  new property tax exemption  for 2026 (for example, if you are a non-profit or a low-income housing provider), the deadline is right around the corner. Normally this falls on March 1st, but since that’s a Sunday this year, the state has pushed the deadline to  Monday, March 2nd . Why it matters:  If you miss this date, you could be stuck paying the full tax rate for the entire year, even if you qualify for a break. 2. Prepare for the...
Read more

The Art of Downsizing

-
  In my line of work, I see it all the time—a family home that was once bustling with nine kids (I can certainly relate to that!) suddenly feels a lot quieter. Maybe you’re an empty nester looking to simplify, or perhaps you’re ready to trade the lawn mower for a condo in West Allis or a maintenance-free villa in Muskego. Downsizing isn't just about moving to a smaller house; it’s an art form. It’s about "rightsizing" your life so you have more time for what matters—like traveling or chasing after the grandkids—and less time spent dusting rooms you haven't entered in a month. Here is your 2026 guide to mastering the art of downsizing with grace. 1. Reframe the Mission: Gaining Freedom, Not Losing Space The biggest hurdle is often mental. Instead of thinking "I’m losing my dining room," try thinking, "I’m losing a weekend of cleaning and gaining a weekend at the lake." In 2026, the trend is moving toward  minimalist luxury —keeping only the items th...
Read more

Conquering Winter with Smart Snow and Ice Removal

-
  Living in Southeastern Wisconsin, winter isn't just a season—it’s a lifestyle. While a fresh blanket of snow looks beautiful on our local parks and neighborhoods, it also means the "big shovel" is officially back in business. Beyond just getting the car out of the garage, smart snow removal is about protecting your home, your neighbors, and your own health. Here is your game plan for conquering the Wisconsin winter like a pro. 1. Know Your 24-Hour Clock In many of our local communities, including Milwaukee and West Allis, the law is clear: residential property owners are required to clear their public sidewalks of snow and ice within  24 hours  after the snow stops falling. In cities like Waukesha or Greenfield, that window can be as short as  12 hours  or by noon the following day. Pro Tip:  Don't forget the "corner crosswalk" or the area around fire hydrants! Keeping these clear isn't just a nice thing to do; it's often part of the city ordinance...
Read more