This Couple Saved $70K in Labour Costs to Splurge on One Luxe Feature
Every successful renovation balances vision and budget. Travel writer Sheriden Rhodes and developer Tom Szecsodi know this well. Having stayed in many weekend rentals, Sheriden knew exactly what she wanted—a place with a “luxe feel” and “heritage character.”
Her husband Tom, a developer with experience renovating around 15 properties, played a crucial role. Rhodes describes him as “a builder without the certificate” and adds, “We weren’t going in blind, especially not Tom. He has always been very handy.”
Finding the right property took longer than expected during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Eventually, the couple chose Morpeth, a historic river port town. Tom drove from Newcastle to inspect one property but ended up making an offer on another: a run-down 1950s house in a prime location within walking distance of the heritage-listed main street and popular restaurant Boydell’s.
Although Rhodes initially felt disappointed, she acknowledged the choice was wise in hindsight. “I wanted something that was pretty much done, and here was this ugly house,” she laughs. “It had ugly carpet, this disgusting blue bathroom, the kitchen was awful … but in hindsight, it was a really good decision.”
“We weren’t going in blind, especially not Tom. He has always been very handy.”
“I wanted something that was pretty much done, and here was this ugly house... but in hindsight, it was a really good decision.”
Author's summary: The couple strategically saved on labor costs by taking on renovation challenges themselves, enabling them to invest in premium touches that gave their property a unique heritage charm and luxe feel.