Ten big things to tackle right away in our new project

The Cape we bought was listed as circa 1865, but from some of the detailing, we’re guessing it was more likely around 1835. A bird’s-eye view map from the 1835 shows a house on this site, though maybe not this one.

Many potential buyers passed on the place, for whatever reasons. It is definitely a fixer-upper, but it feels good, and we like its in-town, close-to-the-ocean location.

One chimney was in peril of collapse, and it’s already been removed. The fuel-oil tank had to be replaced. Also done.

We’re looking at the work ahead in two stages.

The first, of course, is more essential. The second, renovating the place more for our dreams.

Not that I especially wanted another This Old House kind of series, but this time we think we can tackle the project more comprehensively, rather than piecemeal.

Here’s what’s on our plate as soon as possible:

1. Insulate exterior walls.
2. Repair foundation and cellar. Work from the bottom up.
3. Level the flooring.
4. Rewire, to accommodate more electronics and appliances, especially, and add grounded outlets.
5. Replace windows.
6. Straighten and fix gutters.
7. Touch up and repaint exterior trim.
8. Add a garden shed. We really miss our barn and need more storage space.
9. Remove the old fireplace iron insert (now sitting in the middle of a room) and the big wood cookstove.
10. Remodel and update kitchen.