Money Pit Makeover

The inspector assured the Ackermans the house they were about to buy was a "tear down," but they were not deterred. The photographer husband and his beekeeper wife saw potential instead of peril. Never mind the fact that the home near downtown Los Angeles had snakes, buckled floors and a lack of hot water. The couple was determined and they soldiered on (not unlike one of our favorite fictional couples who have faced similar perils).

That was six years ago. Now their property, Skyfarm, is an oasis complete with lush gardens and plenty of room for the Ackerman's two young daughters and their 15 (!) pets. While the Ackermans may be an extreme example of determination, they do prove that if you have a vision for your own home, anything is possible with a bit of perseverance and patience. If you're considering a fixer-upper, just remember it took this couple six years and likely lots of trips to Home Depot before they saw their vision come to life.

How are you making your home-buying dreams come true? Has anyone else out there remodeled a tear-down and lived to tell the tale? [LA Times]