The allure of a dilapidated villa in Aberdeen, North Carolina, was too strong for Abby and Trey Brothers to resist.
When they first laid eyes on the 109-year-old property, it appeared in a desolate state, with broken windows and no locks.
But beneath the decay, the couple saw great potential.
They dreamed of a house rich in history and charm and were determined to bring it back to life.
Abby told CNBC Make It:
„It was important to preserve the original details of the house because it’s history.
Homes aren’t built today like they were in 1913. The details are different.
And if you want those details in a home today, they cost a lot.“
The villa, spanning 6,000 square feet, was purchased for only $155,000.
However, the renovation was a significant commitment and incurred an additional cost of $268,000.
Abby recalls the immediate connection she felt when she found the listing online, likening it to the security she felt in deciding to marry Trey.
For Trey, the house already felt like home when he first entered it, despite the obvious need for extensive repairs.
The villa’s rich history is intertwined with the Page family, influential industrialists who played a crucial role in the development of North Carolina.
Entering the house felt like a journey back in time.
Old newspapers, remnants of past parties, and the unique location of the kitchen in the basement painted a vivid picture of the past.
The house was a time capsule ready to be opened.
The discovery of the villa on Zillow was a fortunate coincidence.
Abby’s accidental step back led her to the listing, and the couple quickly recognized the profit potential.
Before making the purchase, they consulted various contractors to estimate renovation costs.
Their investment proved wise when the house was later appraised at over $900,000.
Preserving the original details of the villa was the top priority.
The Brothers recognized the value of the historic features of the house, from the 110-year-old hardwood floors to the delicate woodwork.
These details, in their view, were irreplaceable and a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era.
The house was a treasure trove of antiques, many of which the couple decided to restore and integrate into their home.
From the credenza in the living room to the furnishings in the study, each piece tells its own story.
They even transformed an old telephone stand into an eccentric red bathroom, paying homage to its original function.
The dining room and kitchen underwent significant changes.
Originally, a portion of the dining room had collapsed into the basement.
Now it is stable and leads to a master bedroom with a unique fireplace.
The names of the builders immortalized on the fireplace mantel remind of those who constructed the house.
The porch was transformed into a spacious bathroom, complete with a standalone bathtub that once belonged to Abby’s great-grandmother.
The villa features several bedrooms, each with its own charm.
The second floor houses four bedrooms connected by Jack-and-Jill bathrooms.
There’s also a „grandma’s porch,“ transformed into the couple’s child’s room.
The Brothers poured their heart and soul into every corner of the house to ensure that each room conveyed history and love.
For Abby and Trey, this villa is more than a home; it’s the result of their dedication and vision.
They see themselves living there forever and hope that future generations of their family will continually appreciate it.
Abby is proud to have saved a piece of history.
She believes the experience was worth every challenge and hopes that their story inspires others to embark on similar adventures.
Watch the video here for a deeper look into the Brothers‘ journey and their beautiful home!
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