Answering your questions about The Rectory

[@Rubicon1954]

Just a thought for you to consider... As long as you don't have an endless amount of money to restore this house, AND as long as you have been so kind as to share your restoration journey for people to enjoy, you should be aware that some of your followers might be willing to support you in ways that are small to them but could mount up to be significant for you. I've seen other content creators use such sites as Buy Me a Coffee, Patreon, or Ko-fi. I don't know much about these support venues, except that I know a lot of content creators use them. I have supported a content creator that had to drop Patreon and move to another site due to poor technical support and other difficulties with their account, but a lot of folks still use them. The other sites, I've heard no complaints about. You could also do channel memberships and an Amazon Wish List for supplies that you need. Anyway, offering something like this to your subscribers, might make it possible for you to do this job quicker than if you tried to finance it yourself, and there are many folks who appreciate people like you who buy and rescue historical buildings like this one. Good Luck! 😃

[@maxinedyer8368]

I’ve also seen this with other content creators. One person who is on a very tight budget doing up a small cottage has had a lot of stuff sent to them from their Amazon Wish List. Other creators have a Tip Jar. I’m all for it. After all, Emma and Charlie are entertaining us. Why shouldn’t we give them something in return?

[@lindab424]

The fact that the estate agent didn't do a great job with the marketing of the property and you only stumbled upon it by chance means the place was meant to be yours. I am looking forward to seeing you and Charlie restore this property into your new home.

[@fcmcfcmc2868]

Invest in a wallpaper steamer to get the wallpaper off. Plant some young trees around your border for future privacy. They grow quickly enough on a long renovation. The damp will be from the continued condensation and you could invest in a good dehumidifier to remove the excess moisture. We left one running for 6 weeks to remove the damp in our house. It works. Always get the largest skip available because it saves money in the long run. Start looking at auctions to replace the original features. You will find real bargains. Furniture too because people don’t have houses big enough now to take the antique furniture. Do some research on grants available to help with the cost to restore it to its original splendor. Cut a small hole to view inside that ceiling because it looks like the rest of the original features are behind the current ceiling. You don’t need loads of money when your hearts are intent on restoring the property. Just learn as you go along. Craftsmen are happy to advise and impart their expertise to help you succeed. The windows you could get sponsorship for and they use the photographs for their promotions. Every little will help. Looking forward to watching the progress as our successful restorations come to the end of a 7 year labour of love. Take lots of photographs to look back on to see how far you have come when you feel low. It will encourage you to see the light ahead. Good Luck. 😊

[@monicagaitor6751]

Thank you for encouraging them, it's a beautiful thing to do. Happy Reno!!!. 🏘️.

[@debbiehollis5711]

Well you sound very positive .It is a beautiful property .My daughter lives in a similar property in Cornwall.The Trust are very good about paying for major repairs to the exterior of the property Its not a cheap property to run none of these old Georgian properties are .However they are just so beautiful and make wonderful family homes.My daughter has four children but still manages to grow her own veg and has a large orchard and her husband loves making chutney and jam.The secret to keeping grass under control is to cut it regularly and have a large compost heap for all the cuttings.Heating oil fired but Aga in the kitchen and log burners in all the downstairs rooms.The place then stays warm and dry.Good luck .

[@drogna3905]

Great advice here.

[@bosvigos9165]

Architectural salvage people for putting features back into the house. Antique Auction sales around the country for furnishings later. Just get on their email lists. I so wish you well, it has such great bones and I have no doubt you will create a wonderful home together. Take all the advice you can, especially from architects, surveyors engineers. You have time on your side and a willingness to make something rather wonderful from this house. I wish you well in your endeavours!

[@gyoshinvirginialawson5964]

No to steamer on plaster walls please. Damage.

[@jlhenderson2]

So glad to hear you plan to make the Rectory a family home again.

[@DebraCarey-h5t]

If you want to replicate the ceiling rose and cornices make a plaster mold of them. It would bring every room such benefit.

[@agresticumbra]

Christine McConnell has a video here on how she made her ceiling rosee(s). It's a nifty watch, IMO.

[@uncontrolledhistorian7063]

Wow. What a wonderful find. We've been in "The Old Rectory" in a Lincolnshire village for 15 years now and were lucky because we are only the third private owners since the diocese of Lincoln sold the building in the 1960's. 1839 so classed as Victorian but it's pure Georgian. The electricity is mental, the plumbing from another worldscape, the roof leaks like a holey bucket, it's freezing in winter...and cool in summer. The 2 acre garden is an entity unto itself. Cellar has been half filled. Attics are bonkers BUT we ADORE this home. Original deep skirting, cornicing, gas mantle fixings, cast iron fireplace in an attic room, indoor shutters and original sash windows. We uncovered a glorious York Stone mantle behind the ugly 50's style gas fire and every room still has it's original fireplaces. The place is a challenge (or more) a day but worth everything. Good luck. Enjoy what you are doing. Much love...Jackie xxx

[@meganthompson6727]

You had luck yes, but also the vision. Ignore those people saying they’d outbid you - you won and they didn’t. It’s gorgeous and I’m so glad you are converting it back to a family home. The roof looks great, it just needs cleaning and repointing ridge caps etc.

[@elizabethturel78]

It’s called “Schadenfreude”. People who are jealous of your good fortune. I know we have a snooty English word for it: epicaricacy. Just plod along with your plan Charlie and Emma❣️

[@l-jx7349]

Hiya Emma, I've just watched this episode, and to be honest, I am quite shocked that some people are actually asking for information about your personal finances??? To me, that is no ones business other than your own, so please don't ever feel you have to explain your financial circumstances to anyone. The only advice I would offer is to try and put some boundaries in place as to what type of personal information you give out. You do have to be so careful these days. At the end of the day... let people ask whatever questions they want....it doesn't mean you have to give them an explanation. Really enjoying watching your new chapter unfold xx

[@shendaraalshedir5403]

Good advice and very nice comment!👍😃🐾🌈☮️🇨🇦

[@85parrot]

I don't know, yes it is personal but it makes a very different set of videos watching someone blow millions on a renovation, and not something I'd want to watch as it's just not relatable for me. Knowing that they have "normal" jobs and finances behind them puts a lot of decisions and actions into context and for me makes the whole thing a lot more interesting

[@deeprose8598]

FYI-if the roof isn’t leaking don’t fix it, clean it, chalk around the chimney, fix any fascia rotten boards and you’re good to go…try not to bring any more vents up thru it…the fates brought you here you are truly blessed.

[@ferocious_r]

This.

[@davidraffe3445]

I would agree that the roof looks really good. I would ask lots of awkward questions if a roofer tells you otherwise. It also has vented slates (a row near the eaves and a row near the apex). These are modern, to prevent damp by increasing airflow up the inside of the pitch. First thing I would do is check the vents aren't blocked (especially near any damp). Also, if there is any roof insulation in the loft rafters near the eaves, check it is pulled back from the edge. There should be a gap to allow air up the inside of the walls into the loft space. If insulation is in the pitch, (above the loft space) check it could also block airflow. People these days are obsessed with blocking up all the gaps/drafts that these older houses rely on to prevent damp. Also check the gutters aren't clogged.

[@airenesmiler6624]

Always check the gutters and downspouts!

[@labgirlreed]

Sounds to me like this old house was just waiting for you to come and rescue it. I was thrilled to have stumbled across your channel this morning and have seen all the episodes so far. No doubt you and Charlie have a lot of work ahead of you, but please don’t get too discouraged. Wish we could come and help remove some of that stuff on the walls (I live in the US), I’ve removed simple wall paper before, but that stuff looks like it’s going to put up a fight. Looks like you have a lot of viewers to cheer you on. So nice to have met you today!❤~Barbara from Maryland,USA

[@patty-m2d]

Since you love the garden, you can use those grass clippings to start a compost system. Many people use old pallets to set this up and it's all free after that...cardboard, grass clippings, etc., it all free and your garden will thank you.

[@dyanalayng5507]

Good idea. Plus chicken manure - and horse manure from next door - ask the owners - the compost will process nicely.

[@andyjackson3663]

I'm not a gardener so happy to be fact checked but... I'm sure once I read that it's good for a lawn if you can keep the grass clippings on it instead of raking them up. Obviously the lawn will not look great but.. you've other stuff to focus on so who cares😉

[@mathieubrassard834]

@@andyjackson3663 a little is ok but this much could actually kill the grass.

[@Lousialee-hm3gu]

@@mathieubrassard834 Yes it acts to block the sun with that much as a mulch layer on it.

[@JohnChrysostom101]

Cardboard is often full of chemicals

[@LeannaRuthJensen]

My favorite channels are those where people learn to do something and we share their progress. I think you are right this building needs a loving touch to be its best again.

[@TheSecretChateau]

Greetings from Normandie. A suggestion for you, change your channel name to 'The Georgian Rectory". I believe you will gain more followers and boost your channel's presence. Yours is a wonderful building that has been treated very badly in the past. It needs dedication and passion and you and Charlie have this! On screen, you are a delight! Also and alas you are correct about electricians. Every electrician we have ever met is a millionaire lol.

[@user-yc4fz7vv6u]

Or, seeing it was built in 1812, The *Regency* Rectory.

[@CarterKey6]

Agree

[@Daytona2]

@@user-yc4fz7vv6u true, but it doesn't really have any Regency features tho, so Georgian is probably a more accurate description.

[@gordonhumphris5420]

Thank you for your candid comments and responses. We look forward to seeing your progress, nice to meet you. This will be an exciting project and journey. Gordon and Diane from North Essex.

[@zbllyr3613]

The house has good bones and you are the lifeblood it needs...

[@cajsheen2594]

This property was meant to be yours! Looking forward to enjoying watching your progress! ❤ XXX

[@poodlegirl55]

My husband and I have been married for 50 years and have remodeled eight houses, the latest one when we were 70 . I'll share our motto with you. "Take out anything that isn't a nice house." Knowledge and experience helps but one way to get that is by doing. Good luck, I will watch.

[@lfm6269]

One step, one job at a time, little by little you will have a beautiful home! I will be watching every vlog you post and be cheering you on! The house is huge with so much potential…until the next vlog, take care!

[@pamm8020]

Yes! This is more important than it may seem. When you come up with a plan and carry it out one job at a time, you have the satisfaction of seeing that job done. Otherwise, if you do a little bit here and a little bit there, it can feel overwhelming. You'll feel so much less at sea when you know exactly what has to be done and can plan it out logically. Best of luck to you both!

[@siameseire]

Hi Emma. It is wonderful to meet you! 😊 I hope you get a nice comfy seat in your shady horse-watching area.

[@stuborn-complaining-german]

Two suggestions / ideas for keeping the grass at bay: 1. Get a lawn mower tractor. It may seem like a large investment, but go look for a used one or something, because with all that land you will need it. Depending on the type it will also come in handy doing lots of other stuff. 2. If possible try to contact the farmer or whoever owns the land where the horses are and see if he can go over your lawn with a big tractor and mower once in a while until you are finished rebuilding and have time to tend to the garden. Maybe even make a makeshift access to your garden from that field so he can just do it quickly...

[@dawnmoriarty9347]

Ask to borrow the horses for grazing!

[@aok2727]

It’s time to start a cold compost pile. If you plan to garden down the road, it will be a lovely source of compost.

[@JoseighBlogs]

I've seen almost new sit-on-mowers large and small 'going for a song' at farm and bankruptcy and other vehicle and closedown of factory auctions.

[@laurencegifford8788]

Did I hear horses clip clopping past your house?

[@joycef8443]

@@dawnmoriarty9347better to get goats!

[@daleparks2925]

Emma, thank you for sharing who you & Charlie are and your plans for the property ‼️ I will enjoy watching your adventures while making it your home 🏡 Best wishes from Maryland, USA

[@TamarLitvot]

I'm another watcher from Maryland!

[@alastairmcmurray4873]

We looked for an old house to restore in Lincolnshire back n 2012, auctions were the best source but without fail the best period houses with land and needing restoration went to developers and the price went into orbit based in building in the gardens. You were lucky to get this. We got our restoration project in the end and I did most of the work myself…so speaking from experience it’s going to be very expensive….£100k will be eaten in the blink of an eye! Don’t worry about the roof and don’t always follow advice from ‘experts’. Virtually everything will have asbestos in it the 70s part of the house, floor tiles, lagging, wall boards, you have a large land area…remember asbestos is best put back where it came from…the earth. I would contact the housing association and they should be able to send you the ‘asbestos resister’ for the house which as a business they are legally required to have had put together.

[@TheRectory1812]

We will definitely contact the housing association about the asbestos register, that might save a ton of effort, thank you!!

[@Lousialee-hm3gu]

That's a good tip

[@pendolinoable]

Always trust your own opinion/eyes/judgment first. A lot of professionals want to make a lot of money. Several times in the past I was quoted for extensive works where only minor, or even none, were actually needed. Books and KZbin are your friends. Research and research again. Above all enjoy it.

[@pm2886]

Couldn't agree more. The more of us who give it a go on a limited budget, the more of these old houses will be restored.

[@blocka58]

Suggestion for your sanity and future. You are faced with what appears a daunting project. Don't stress. Just focus on one job at a time. Pick a room and finish it. Then stand back and ask yourself "what could I have done better?". Move onto the next room and apply the things you learnt from the first. If you do this then pretty soon all tasks will fall into place. I worked in a high stress industry and soon learnt how easy it was to become over whelmed by the multiple jobs at hand. One job at a time is the answer and will avoid not being able to "see" the tree's for the woods. I wish you every success in your endeavors and consider you very fortune in gaining a place like that. So much can be done to enhance the character of the building. Best wishes from the Antibodies down under.

[@angiej4865]

Thank-you. I was one of those asking where you are....and it turns out you are literally a few miles up the road from me! Noting the auctioneers....mmm, kinda surprised at the job they did. That said, I believe you make your own luck in this world when it comes to property. If others didn't see it they weren't looking hard enough, so well done you. Good that it's not listed. I guess you'll have to make decisions about whether to return original fixtures/fittings. One rule of renovation, well two really...everything takes longer and costs more than you think. I speak from vast experience. Good luck and enjoy the process 😊

[@brashers759]

Great video again! A few things, from 20 years of renovating old houses: 1. I don’t think you’ll find any hazardous class asbestos, judging by the age of the council fit out? Possibly just in the floor tiles. 2. The roof looks great! My father had been a builder and roofer for over 50 years, and always says the same thing about slate roofs: Slate has been used by humans to roof structures since the Mesolithic period, because slate is lightweight, waterproof and will last millennia! Just look for cracked slates, and check the timbers in the loft space. You only need to replace broken slates, not the whole roof. Go with your surveyor rather than a roofer, as a roofer will encourage you to re-roof. 3. You should make a lot of money back in scrap on your wiring and plumbing, although a good plumber will re-use as much piping and fittings as they can. Your sparky might do the same if the wire is within regs. 4. That ceiling rose is beautiful! I suspect that a false ceiling around it! So you might find something amazing above!! 5. There are a few really good wooden window specialists, building Victorian style double glazed wooden windows, who are still cheaper than uPVC from companies like Everest and Anglian windows… 🪟. We paid £1200 per large wooden sash window (4ft x 5ft 6ins) with Jim Cordner windows, compared to £2100 quoted by Everest. 5. Behind that fireplace, might just be something older?! We discovered a huge chimney breast behind a 1920’s tiled fireplace, in our current house, and do the same in our first house. Best of luck with it all, I’m sure it will be beautiful and will give you a great sense of achievement! We are on our 4th restoration, with this one being completely derelict when we bought it, and already are talking about a 5th one 😂

[@dianne7316]

Thank you for mentioning Point 4, with which I totally agree. I grew up with a Dad who bought properties like this, and we lived in them (sometimes camping) until they became the beautiful homes they were meant to be. Enjoy every moment - there's always a way to achieve your goals! 🎉

[@louiseshekell4902]

Agree re windows. We replaced our Victorian sash windows 5 yrs ago using a company called Ventrolla. It was only slightly more expensive to go for wooden double glazed units than UPVC but they look fantastic!

[@CorylSchuler-bb4ou]

When I saw the amount of work needed for the garden grass I envisioned letting some borrowed sheep do the work for you ! Lol Love what you are doing . Thanks for introducing yourself !

[@susanaustin5565]

So pleased u taking it back as a family home it needs love. Good luck 👍👍👍

[@pjoseph777]

You and your husband were meant to be the next custodians of the house. No coincidences. So very happy that you want to bring it back. I have a friend who has been restoring a castle in Wales and is in the 5th year of the project and there is an end in sight. You need to look for appliance companies that want the publicity to give you deals or give you the appliances outright. Go to the nearest trade school to find students to help with plastering and other interior work. See if you cant get the original blueprints of the house so you restore the interior as close to the original as possible.

[@ESCAPINGTHEMATRIXFORGOOD]

Really interesting to see the progress, thanks so much for sharing your dream, I'm 53 years old now and brought a late 1700s 2 semi detached cottages to turn into one 10 years ago to renovate in Suffolk, its looks like a third of the size as your property, ( floors falling through, ceiling falling down, walls crumbling, damp and in a very bad way !) im not rich but its been so worth the 10 years of very hard graft renovating this, ( yes not a lot of money coming in her here hence the long time ! ), I'm just coming to the end of the renovations now. Please dont get too overwhelmed by the work, it will be so worth it for you in the future i promise you, you will not regret it. you will be living your heaven in the future ! like i am now. Good luck and thank you for your uploads. blood sweat and tears to come !!! but the future is going to be great for you !!!!!!!!! take good care

[@tinycotswoldcottage]

That was really interesting - thank you. You come across well on canera (very natural and relaxed) and also very likeable. I didn't find it too much talking as you had said it was a Q and A so that's what I expected. I feel much better informed about the whole project now and look forward to following the journey. Loads of luck with it.

[@giholdaway]

I’ve subscribed. A Kiwi who lives in Aus might seem a bit random, but a Georgian house not too far from you played an important role in our lives. So I’ll watch your project and its progress with interest. When I think about it … there are two houses that haven’t been mine that have had a stronger influence than others on the people we’ve become and the sort of homes we’ve sought to create. A Georgian house called George Park in Awliscombe, Devon that looks quite a lot like yours is one. A distant English cousin (and his wife) welcomed a couple of backpackers into their house (and lives) over 40 years ago … connections that had been getting faint started to strengthen … and, helped by cheap airfares I guess, are deeper and more extensive now than you can imagine. Would that my grandfather, who left England for New Zealand 100 years ago, could see what has happened! The other house that had a huge influence on me / us is in Jakarta … but that’s another story. My very best wishes !

[@ColinDH12345]

Talk with an electrician BEFORE you start running cables or else you will have a job to find someone to test and sign off. Talk first and they will give you guidance, knowing that you will go to them for the final work. There are MANY regs that you won't be aware of. Same on plumbing. Befriend a plumber to work with you. We have done what you are about to do. It's amazing what you can learn.

[@Chris-NZ]

Nice to get to know you better 😀. Having been an avid follower of the lads in France renovating neglected once magnificent homes and of course Dan and the burnt out Chateau I’m so glad to see you two reconverting this, lets face it bastardised flat conversion, back into the family home it once was. Best of luck from the other side of the world. 😀👍 Cheers Chris.

[@sioned70]

Beautiful home and garden! I think it would be fun to research the history of the home, maybe you can find old architect drawings or someone local has pictures of the inside before the features were removed. I can only imagine how fulfilling it would be to restore it to its former glory! Even if you can't replicate the features that were ripped out, you can research that style and incorporate it to make it appear as if it was never removed. Everything will be a "live and learn" moment beginning with the mowers who did NOT bag that grass! Such an exciting time for you! Take it one step at a time and go with your gut/instinct. Thank you so much for including us on your journey. Cheers from Kansas 🌻

[@timtaylor1365]

Your honest answers to the questions help build support for your enterprise....it will be a huge project but you've rescued a piece of history. Thank you for that.

[@vikkirobinson4131]

If the budget will stretch , then get a ride-on mower. If you get one that collects the grass you will feel much more able to keep on top of the garden without killing yourself or taking all day away from other tasks. Some expenses are worth it.

[@bob_the_bomb4508]

Get mulching blades too, it’s easier than picking the grass up

[@JoseighBlogs]

Such mowers come up at Farm and bankruptcy and other auctions.

[@asakurad]

About 15 years ago, my wife and I renovated / restored a 100-year-old in the Japanese countryside. We hired professionals to do earthquake safety foundation work, but have done most of the rest of things by ourselves. My advice is that you can. probably do more than you think you can. You save a ton of money and it's fun. The only thing is that it's slow. (Pick two: done quickly, nicely, cheaply.) Good luck and I will keep watching and cheering you on.

[@NormaCox-g1h]

Cannot wait to see the renovation, good luck with making this house into a home for you both.😊

[@christineb8148]

I too would love a walled kitchen garden! How wonderful that would be. I really love all the bird songs surrounding you as you sat outside :-)

[@HensOnly]

Emma, thank you for sharing your plans for the home! I hope it will be restored to its glory and be loved by you and your family once more! It has to be a very simple and beautiful home and gardens!

[@melissaeden1219]

The garden is wonderful and will bring you much joy over the years. All of tha grass you raked will make great compost, too!

[@karenboyd7535]

Thank you for such a down to Earth explanation of what you are doing with this house. I look forward to seeing it come together!

[@suecasas1070]

Loved your video Emma, I am sure that someone has already mentioned this, but recycle whatever you can, and sell what you do not need, all that unwanted copper pipe and copper wire in the electric cable could bring in some cash. Our old house is much different to yours, but we saved a fair amount of money on skips and stone, as we had to make a retaining wall for steep a bank that we had in the garden, we used gabion baskets, faced up the front with nice stone and the back was filled with building rubble, broken sinks, tiles old lintels, our neighbours contributed as well with all their junk odd bricks and rocks. Do not make the mistake off getting yours doors dipped, they never look the same. I stripped all the doors on my house with paint stripper and a hot gun, just be careful that there is no lead paint! Its not just asbestos you have to beware of! repairing the sash windows, replacing the sash cords is easy and gives you a great sense of satisfaction! Top tip I was told when doing up the windows is to use greenhouse glass or I think they are called Dutch Lights, the glass is imperfect, which sort of matches the original glass , if you have one odd pain of glass and you replace it with normal modern glass, it stands out like a sore thumb! Downside of course is that it is only 3ml thick but certainly for an outbuilding. Good Luck!

[@Rosedene80]

.....if you have a tiny amount of money in the kitty, forget the house, buy a used ride-on mower. ☺Oh my gosh, I'd be crying doing that raking every week or two. Looks like a lovely area. Look forward to watching the progression. I think you'll both learn soooooo much throughout this venture. It will all be worth it in the end.🤗

[@jmorin6620]

I am so excited to watch a renovation commence from the first walk through! I'm so glad this popped up in my feed. You are in luck that it isn't listed, so you aren't constrained. Honor it's history and the vernacular, but bring it into this century. I'm in New England and have done a whole house renovation of a plain Jane, 1880's New Englander so I appreciate how daunting it can be. Let the house speak to you once the garbage is torn out. Watch the light and how it changes through the day and it will tell you what should be. What a great score of a house, and what an opportunity! I hope you have popped the cork on a good bottle of wine and walked through, savoring this place!

[@janmorris1098]

Emma, the ceiling with the ceiling rose looks like a suspended ceiling you may find further original features if the ceiling was carefully removed.

[@chezmoi42]

I'm thinking they'll find cracked plaster, but you're right that there may be cornice moldings hidden by the thickness of that ceiling.

[@neutonrenda2303]

The cut grass is perfect for starting a composting area, you'll need it when you get the garden going, and you'll save yourself having to haul it away. I can't wait to see your property being brought back to a family home, it's really beautiful and with the right passion, vision and hard work you'll end up with a gem. 👍

[@roselee4445]

Compost idea great

[@sandybeach516]

Good afternoon, Emma. I live in the USA and all that grass would make fabulous compost for a vegetable garden. I dug up a small area and planted 4 tomato plants and used the grass clippings as mulch. It really enriched the soil in the first year. You have a much larger garden than what I had. It will be exciting watch you fix up this house. The back of the house is stunning. I love the windows and can see plants in them. Stay healthy and safe.

[@stevegwardify]

Hi Emma Charlie Blossom & Muttley, I think it's great you have taken on the task of renovating your lovely Georgian Rectory. All the very best of luck, I will look forward to watching your progress. Regards'

[@stephanietaylor8003]

Nice to meet you Emma. I'm watching from the New England area of Australia, an ex-pat from Norfolk. I'm looking forward to watching you both bring this back to life and bring love back to those old walls. I love watching all sorts of restoration videos: homes, furniture, antiques, toys etc. Enjoy the process ❤

[@joanfreestone1707]

It's awful how lovely old buildings are turned into flats in Britain. It would be lovely if more people like you bought and restored them.

[@jme_a]

Loved to hear more about your story, I had to smile at your comments about not having deep pockets though... you bought a "fixer upper" at auction for £690,000, and have another home! If that isn't deep pockets I don't know what is! 😁 Looking forward to watching your journey!

[@BrLambert]

Most of the channels I watch or have watched are people like yourself who have never built a cabin, never DIY'd a house and one from the 1800s, etc, but they did and the end results were amazing. I'm watching 1806 Stonehouse and he's still working on his home after 5 years, but it's been a heartfelt project and the whole family has been helping. It's wonderful. I just thought of this other channel called, Turning an Old School into our house. You'll do absolutely fine and will be all the wiser for it. I'm sharing these because of all their tips and tricks they have learned just might help you.

[@margaretorden7568]

I’m looking forward to seeing what you do. Just a small tip. When stripping wallpaper put a layer of newspaper on the floor before you begin. It’s so much easier to clear up!

[@aok2727]

Even though it will be an expense, I encourage you to hire an architect to make a plan for you. It will provide a way for you to prioritize jobs and make certain you aren’t doing work you will later have to pull out to accomplish other work. It’s so fun to see you take on this project.

[@airenesmiler6624]

My only advice so far is regarding the lawn, get a mulching lawn mower, cut it more frequently and leave it slightly long and then you won't have to rake. Best of luck, I'm looking forward to your renovation adventures. You can learn to do almost anything it just depends on how long you want to take to do it.

[@fraserwrobb3075]

The drone shots are great, gives a good perspective on the property and area. Really beautiful area you're in. I would pressure wash the garden terrace and the red brick walls. Making the place look really presentable on the outside will make it more pleasant to arrive to each day. It will keep your motivation up.

[@harmlessgrey]

The stripped door looks amazing, what a huge difference. That kind of change will transform the house back to its original grandeur.

[@terriford5634]

I stumbled on your channel, and I'll be watching from the states. We have many renovation shows here. One of my favorites is HomeTown from a couple in Mississippi. They started with a small budget and redid their kitchen. My favorite saying they have is "find a way to have what you want." It doesn't ever have to be perfect or expensive, but so many options are available for close enough that will bring you joy. My neighbor spent $80,000 on a kitchen redo. I spent $32,000. In reality, they don't look a whole lot different, and they both equally cook home meals. Also, the wall paper: slide your scraper between the top and back, brown, layer. Then soak the heck out of the back. It'll scrap off. Nothing needed. It may rip some of the wall, but patching and drywalling is easily done. One last thing, there may be restoration majors in history/art programs at the local colleges that are always happy to come share what they know if you let them record the time with you. Sometimes, they can even show you restoration techniques. Google and you'll find some local craftsmen. A few of the right people can be a lifesaver!

[@susanreid-tk1oz]

Love the house. Thanks for sharing the tour and your progress.

[@tonifish3879]

Check for lead based paint, lead pipes too

[@SusanBuckingham-ut2ez]

Congrats on buying this noteworthy mansion! It will be fun to work through all the upcoming projects with you! Working with the historic commission is not FUN! Get moved in soon so you can be on site and start making plans. You can get lots of tips by reading what others have gone through, how they worked through it, and learn from their mistakes! Now count your blessings, don't get discouraged, take a well deserved break once in a while and stand back often to admire the progress as you finish each task. Hugs from the States (Michigan, with similiar weather to yours!)

[@PandoraSummer-d9v]

You are gifted. May the Lord bless your new journey, and keep the content as real as this one. We are enjoying it too.

[@simonp8409]

All the best - take your time. If you haven’t already, I’d recommend visiting Georgian and early Victorian houses for inspiration and guidance. Good luck, can’t wait to see the house evolve.

[@mandystephenson5748]

Well done both love watching your channel what a dream .wish you all the luck

[@TheRectory1812]

Thank you!

[@MichelleSinTO]

Very relieved to hear you have an inspector coming in to look into asbestos. Wearing a respirator is not enough when you’re doing renovations that disturb anything containing asbestos. Watched a KZbinr that had to have asbestos abatement done (Max & Occy is the channel) & the building was tented off in plastic, the workers had full suits that sealed at all openings, fully hooded, etc, plus a respirator, to ensure that asbestos fibers didn’t escape while they were working. It’s a really big health concern that isn’t covered by just a mask, and not just for you, but anyone who is around you with clothes worn while working, etc. Excited to see what’s to come. Love what someone else suggested about making The Annex into a temporary residence/small flat so you can get in there quickly (presumably paying rent elsewhere, so can stop paying that sooner), then can work through the main house at a reasonable pace without stressing about timelines. Watching from Toronto, where we don’t have anything remotely like these gorgeous old houses you have over there.

[@eliwalker9429]

Think this is the 4th of 5th video I have seen today on your house, first found your husband's tour after you bought it at auction. From the outside it still has the Regency look, except for the PVC windows and doors. And the land is great. I would have been overwhelmed seeing the inside, as you said "pigerly, wiggly in the inside. Laughed my head of at the fire escape under the bathroom sink. Pretty sure that was never up to code. Used to do a lot of DIY and some reno, but never anything of this size. I do wish you both and your parents all the best, and will be watching your journey from here in Canada. P.S. re the removal of the woodchip wallpaper. Years ago I used a garden sprayer to hold a solution of warm water and liquid fabric softner, never cold, to spray on the wall, after scoring the paper first. Still lots of work, but it worked and the woodchip came off the wall. Good luck to you all.

[@patricianathan4676]

It's going to be an interesting journey. I am excited to follow you both. Small bits at a time, rake breaks and research other properties that brave people have tackled. So take it from one who has the tee shirt! Don't give up , enjoy and look to future rewards. ❤

[@StyleRecordGroupcom]

I would choose a main door entrance in the middle of the house, then make it grand with 2 stone pillars , then fill in the the other doors, make the side extension a double garage , then rendered it, add a clock tower. much praise for you both how you bought it with out selling your old house.

[@patgrimes298]

I am glad you won about keeping what is original of the house! I can see what you both can do yourselves, and what professionally help you will need. (In doing own wiring, having a professional look at it too. My brother had been an electrical engineer, and did the wiring in his office room. They had lived in the house for years, but caught fire (believe the office electric wiring frayed), and house demolished. They chose to buy an enclosure house, with three garages, and his office is in the far one (hope did not do the wiring or had a professional person to look at it).) I can see why some of the questions, but would not ask how much money you have (not anyone's else's business)! I am sorry for the loss of your precious dog, but precious the years you had together.

[@seatoncinema]

I used a spray bottle added a little fabric softener and the rest with water, sprayed on wallpaper to help remove

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

I have watched Kris Harbour's YT channel for many years, (he is in Wales), he has recently shared a company that makes bespoke oak window frames. They come as a 'kit' that you assemble and glaze yourselves. This may be a massive learning curve for you...but could be a much cheaper way of replacing all those windows etc. I wish you every joy and every success. This is a beautiful property that needs all the love you can manage to bestow on it. Good luck. Xx

[@elizabethalderete731]

Hello Emma and Charlie. Fellow Dorset (Wimborne) girl here in San Francisco. Truly enjoying your videos. This is a fantastic project though I imagine daunting at times. It shall be really lovely when it is complete. Well done for the path to the horses in the field. Makes me miss home so much.

[@elizabethalderete731]

Sounded like Hurn Airport in the background at one point

[@gmk3692]

Hello, I have no good advise to give. I just want to let you know, that my husband and I bought and renovated a 1925 house in Bavaria. We have lived here with our family of six for the past 13 years, and it was all worth it. The house is continually needing work, but it feels so worth it. I hope that all is going according to plan and I am looking forward to seeing you making it yours. hugs, Maria

[@timc3600]

Looks like a nice project for a family home. In regards to plastering. Its not that difficult once you realise that its broken down into different phases, preparation (getting a firm foundation, cleaning off loose bits, taping and jointing with scrim tape, coating with PVA to reduce suction and give you more time to work, then getting the first coat on, drinking tea, waiting for it to firm up, flattening down, applying a second thinner coat, drinking tea, flattening down. Like you, I had to learn all this when I decided to re-plaster all my ceilings as they had 1970's popcorn effects which had to go. I was astounded by the cost of plasters. You soon pick it up, there are lots of good YT videos on how to do it. Speed skim tools are also worth a look. The hard bit is the physical effort involved in getting it up and doing all the flattening down. You also need to consider access if you have high ceilings. Get an interior platform (scaffolding) to make an safe platform to work on, it will pay dividends and make life much easier for you.

[@Thepourdeuxchanson]

I take my hat off to you! I believe that with instruction and care I could do most renovation jobs - slowly. But plastering is something I could never do. With the best will in the world, I'd still draw the line there - it's an art.

[@suzannas.4965]

I think investing in a ride-on lawn mower will be a must that will be worth it. I love the look of the stone on the outside and it must be a few feet wide based on what Charlie said. I'm in Canada and not really familiar with the plastering process but I love the look of brick and stone and always wonder why people cover it up - can't you keep the stone for the outside walls? I think it would look amazing. I've seen quite a few reno videos from England and absolutely everyone chips off the plaster but what I can never understand is why they chip it onto the floor and then spend all kinds of crazy time cleaning it up after ; I don't understand why people don't use a tarp to chip all that plaster onto and then that saves on cleanup - in my opinion. I have to say Emma that property is a wonderful size. unbelievable really. I actually love those bay type windows and the good thing is that there are not that many windows to replace. I love the idea of a push out window as they are on the top floor as you can leave the window open without the rain coming in as there is not really a big overhang. I don't know what the addition looks like but perhaps that could be something to convert for the in-laws and have generations living together - especially as you have that courtyard (not sure if it's attached to the addition). it's going to be a wonderful place once you finish. even though you don't have a lot of skills, you have motivation and caring and there is a lot you can do that doesn't need special skills. don't sweat it. exciting. enjoy !

[@chattycathy1674]

That place was meant for you guys! My thoughts would be to sort the 'add on' first. You can then live there whilst undertaking the rest! Good luck guys, I can't wait to see what you do! Oh and love to Mutley ❤😊xx

[@patriciagoulter]

All the best from New Zealand. What an amazing amount of progress you have made already. The grass will become a lawn!

[@Arkay66]

If UK mowers have mulching blades, it's worth investing in a few such blades, considering how large your garden is. You won't have to rake grass, the finely shredded grass will quickly compost and add their nutrients back into the soil.

[@paulinewilson613]

Hi Emma, lovely to meet you and hear your plans for your beautiful new home, I'm sure it will all be worth all the hard graft in the end and I am looking forward to watching as you and Charlie bring this magnificent home back to it's original glory. I really love seeing old English country homes, I'm in Australia and we have few of this type of building here

[@cateward7043]

Bless you guys! I unsuccessfully restored a Victorian here in the US. I tried to do the entire house as I went. It seemed like nothing was ever finished. I would suggest that you focus on the living quarters for the two of you. It is exciting to start a project like this, but take it in incredibly small bites. You guys are young and will need to frequently take a break from The House. In addition, something will always come out of the blue! For me, I had to replace the entire roof and surprise, the plumbing went! I think that you guys are right on track with bringing professionals in, especially for the structural issues. I am excited for you! I will be sending warm thoughts your way. I look forward to watching your progress.

[@maxinedyer8368]

Morning Emma. Lovely to meet you and Charlie! Forgive me if I’m repeating what someone else has already said but here goes. That’s a huge garden you’ve got! I would be inclined, at this stage, to section off a manageable chunk of it close to the house and let the rest ‘return to nature’ for now. You can always change your mind later. To keep having to mow that vast area will be expensive and also time consuming if you’re having to bag up all the cuttings. I follow Josie on YT and Instagram. They have a house that’s a similar size to yours in the Cotswolds and they’ve sectioned off their sizeable garden so that it has different rooms. Another tip I learnt pretty quickly is that if you have a large garden centre near you it’s most likely got expert plants people who will give you any amount of free advice. Good luck and I can’t wait to see how you get on.

[@SanClara]

Thanks for sharing your perspective Emma. I was happy to hear your philosophy about restoring that beautiful old home. I fell in love with the rear windows during Charlie’s walk around in your first video. Natural sunlight streaming into those rooms must be magical, not to mention the generous view of the garden. I wondered what was behind that huge bush at the back, what a peaceful space. Please keep up a mix of these longer form discussions and the nitty gritty of the project. Gives a more complete story of your journey. Good luck and I look forward to your next video - Mindy from the USA.

[@dottiebaker6623]

Hi Emma! It's good to meet you and learn more about this fascinating building. I'm so glad to hear that an asbestos inspector is coming to check out the Rectory. My fingers are crossed for you. In the meantime, don't generate any dust even if you're wearing a mask. If you do need remediation, the workers will be wearing HazMat suits, goggles and masks. In the US, by law, the stuff they haul away needs to be in special bags, and disposed of properly. Sorry to say this, but it's very expensive. Don't worry about learning the DIY, You Tube is a wealth of informative videos, and a great source of advice from people who have done what you're doing. I don't know about you, but I've loved learning the DIY things I've done! Since you admit to not having deep pockets, you might think about online types of funding for this project - Go Fund Me, Buy me a Coffee, etc. Other DIYers seem to generate at least some of their needed funds this way. Also, even though the Rectory isn't listed, there might be some grants, etc. available that might help. Also, please consider volunteers. Again, other You Tubers have made wonderful use of them for their projects. Bless you two for taking on this wonderful house. Tell us how we can help!

[@TRHLHome]

So many possibilities in the garden! Lots of grass clippings to start your composting heap

[@twentysixarch]

Emma - I admire you and Charly's willingness to take on this challenge...well done and best wishes for a relatively smooth process. As an architect, my advice is to estimate how long this'll take to accomplish and then add 50% to the timeline.

[@claudetteparadis3969]

You have taken on a very big project but how exciting to bring this beautiful house back to life. Looking forward to watching the transformation, you can do this.

[@mitchybooooy]

Oh I love new channels like this because it’s great watching how much your editing skills and stuff come along and also watching the house go from old to new! Particularly interested in the heating and plumbing side of it.. that boiler set up does look like massive overkill but it also looks very well done and rather expensive too! Good luck with your endeavours and I look forward to catching up with you guys soon

[@helensutton107]

Found you quite by accident and I’m hooked! It was lovely to see you introduce yourself and answer questions so honestly. I was also impressed that you read the comments - it very much adds to your appeal. Good luck!

[@MrCaledonius]

Thank you for this Q&A. I wonder if a local college or adult education service offers painting, decorating, plastering, etc. courses so you can get more confident in your skills and gain some new ones. Having just stripped wallpaper in one room of our 1905 mid terrace house I don’t envy you with an entire rectory to do. 😉 I hope you find that some rooms have the original features covered up rather than removed. Maybe ask Santa for a ride on mower or a couple of goats to tackle that lawn.

[@mindywise6045]

So excited for you both, I'm from the USA and I love this adventure! Good luck

[@whitneylivingston5706]

I am so excited to see this project as you get started. I love the homes from that time period and this home seems like the perfect size for my wild imagination!!

[@constancearnold9367]

I just discovered your renovation channel and was immediately captured! With so many choices on youtube, sometimes there's a je ne sais quoi that speaks to you. I will be following you from a seaside town in Massachusetts USA! I wish you the best!

[@TheRectory1812]

@@constancearnold9367 Thank you!

[@jackieduncan4660]

You both were meant to buy this house and sounds like some people were jealous that you got a nice house and they missed out . Just found your videos today and good luck with the renovation. 👏

[@FixingClare]

Great to hear your back story. We are embarking on our own reno journey soon and will be sharing videos. Following you for tips!

[@ruzziasht349]

Wow! you have Georgian rectory in Reno?

[@FixingClare]

@@ruzziasht349 yep - it's a Victorian farmstead. There's a picture on our channel.

[@ruzziasht349]

@@FixingClare in Reno, Nevada? I don't believe you.

[@FixingClare]

@@ruzziasht349 😂

[@ruzziasht349]

@@FixingClare Not sure you're cut out for KZbin.

[@christinewinner6425]

Looking forward to the transition. The bones of the home are great with the big windows over looking the big back yard. Happy house renovating.

[@greenquiltsgalore1326]

I'm so excited for you! Next time, invite the horses over to eat the grass! I'm looking forward to following the progress you make!

[@tonyaustin4472]

Thanks for answering lots of questions including mine about it being listed. Glad to hear (for your sake) that it’s not currently listed because my remark about deep pockets has been eased! Even so, replacing the poor double glazing with proper Georgian style casements is going to be a five figure sum…but oh so worth it as it will utterly transform the look and grace of such a potentially beautiful house. You might think, or at least I would in your shoes, of putting the front door back where it belongs on the garden side of the house. As a surveyor of something like 50 years I have to agree with your family member who also thought the roof ok…my premise on a lifetime of restoring houses has always been, don’t disturb what you don’t need to disturb; and, with no disparaging roofing companies, don’t get talked into doing something unless you need to. They have a vested interest in getting work for themselves and I am guessing you don’t have limitless pockets! On plastering; it may be that the original walls are lime plastered and you’ll be much better off not ripping all the plaster off unless you absolutely have to ok. Remember the mantra I said earlier; do as little as you have to, disturb as little as you absolutely need. Resist the temptation to strip everything down to bare bones. Lime plaster is far far better in a Georgian house than modern plaster…you’ve got an example in the modern extension of how poor modern plaster is to damp. I grieve with you about the amount of vandalisation the 1970 conversion has wreaked on the wonderful understated elegance than typifies Georgian interiors; just remember you have time to look out in reclaim yards for old fireplace surrounds etc to put in in the future. Your house has been there for over 200 years so you have plenty of time to give it back the love it needs to sine again :-) 20:04

[@bethjordan8758]

This is going to be such a fun project. Two tiny little suggestions about your videos. I’m sure you’re not aware that you make an odd noise with your lips when you pause between words but it detracts from the video. And you might want to change the angle at which you video your face. We are looking right up your nose! It’s a lovely place and you’ll get lots of help from this community.