In the beginning things seemed to get worse before they got better. The first thing we did was remove part of the fence from around the property so that dumpsters could be delivered. The next step was removing all the brush and trees growing too close to the house. Several of the trees were poised to fall on the house - and could have totally destroyed the home if they had fallen. Then we began removing the wood from the boarded up windows. The house needed ventilation - and this was the only way to provide it. Even our youngest child tried to pitch in - raking dirt where bushes and stumps had been removed.
When I look back at the very old photos (like these) I think we all must have been either temporarily insane or blind to have tackled this project. And as bad as he looked when we purchased him (the lower photo) - he seemed to look WORSE as we began restoration. Removing the fence and the brush and the boards really highlighted the extent of work ahead of us. Especially, I think, to me. Everyone else involved in the project was predicting that it looked much worse than it was - and that the restoration would be completed in one year. When I predicted two to two and a half years I was chided for always being the pessimist of the family. But, I think we all agree now that the project will actually take about 3 years from start to absolute - you couldn't possibly find anything more to do if you tried - finished. Even being the 'pessimist' that I am - I'm planning the 'Wrap Party' already!
Details of Oak Cottage at: http://NewJerseyHistoricHomesForSale.com
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