The Not-So-Handy Handyman
Here's my story of my home, my first one as an adult without dependants, without a relationship- all me (which was scary asf! ) while I find myself, figure out who I am, and discover the world as it really is. This has been the true source of therapy for me- my blood, sweat, and tears having poured into it.
About
The Little Trailer That Could: My DIY Home Renovation Journey
About Me
I'm a 5'1", 98-pound DIY enthusiast who took on the challenge of renovating a trailer into a livable home. This blog documents my journey of transformation, challenges, triumphs, and the unexpected hurdles along the way.
The Beginning: How It All Started
When I first found my trailer, it was in need of serious love and care. The agreement was simple—I could have it for free until I made it livable. As someone who has always been resourceful and independent, I saw potential where others might have seen only problems.
First Impressions
The trailer I took possesion of was in rough shape—with burnt and sooty interiors that needed complete renovation. The walls were covered in soot and debri, the floors were damaged, and everything needed scrubbed, or removed. Walking in for the first time, I was met with a space that had been someone else's nightmare, someone else's loss and anguish, complete with their burnt belongings, family pictures and deteriorating conditions.
The Agreement
**[Details about the original agreement with the park owners and initial budget/timeline plans]
Phase 1: Foundation Work
Despite my small stature, I tackled the foundational issues first:
Structural Repairs
**[Describe structural repairs I made—floor reinforcement, wall repairs, etc.]
Plumbing Challenges
**[Detail any plumbing work I completed]
Electrical Updates
**[Explain electrical updates and challenges]
Phase 2: Making It Home
Transforming the space into something that felt like home:
Interior Design on a Budget
Despite limited resources, I've been able to transform the space with fresh paint, new flooring, and careful planning. I've stripped away the damaged walls and cold ceramic tile, replaced damaged materials, and started creating a much brighter, more modern living space. Each improvement has been done with careful budgeting and often using materials I could salvage or find at reduced prices. ( Mostly salvaged!)
Space-Saving Solutions
In a small trailer, every inch counts. I've focused on creating a functional layout that maximizes the limited square footage, with an eye toward both practicality and comfort. The kitchen and living areas are being designed to feel spacious despite their actual dimensions.
Progress Highlights
The transformation is ongoing, but already dramatic. From the dark, burnt to a crisp atmosphere to brighter walls, from worn-out surfaces to fresh new ones - each step is bringing this small space closer to becoming a true home.
Unexpected Challenges
Life doesn't always go according to plan:
Park Ownership Change
**(What happened when the park sold without notice and how the new owners changed the terms of our agreement.)
Employment Setbacks
Losing my job due to no fault of my own (manager misconduct) and the impact on the renovation timeline.
Identity Theft Complications
The nightmare of having my unemployment benefits blocked from November until recently due to identity verification issues.
Where I Am Now
The current state of the project, including:
- What's been completed
- What still needs work
- The eviction situation
- My current needs and goals
Looking Forward
Despite these challenges, I remain committed to completing my home. My immediate goals include:
- Resolving the current eviction situation
- Prioritizing essential repairs
- Finding sustainable employment
- Completing the renovation in stages as resources allow
How You Can Help
If you've been inspired by this journey and would like to contribute:
- Materials donation opportunities
- Skilled labor assistance
- Resources for similar DIY projects
- Support options for those in housing transitions
DIY Tips From A Small But Mighty Renovator
Lessons I've learned along the way that might help others:
- Leverage for small people: tools and techniques that help when you lack height or weight
- Budget-friendly alternatives for expensive renovations
- Essential skills I've had to learn quickly
- Resources that have been invaluable to me
Follow along as I continue to update this blog with new progress, setbacks, and victories in my journey to create a home of my own.