Renovating a derelict property is a labor of love, and these five bloggers share their journeys with raw honesty and practical tips. Whether you're tackling a fixer-upper or just love a good before-and-after, you'll find inspiration here.
The World of Derelict Property Renovation Blogs
Derelict property renovation blogs have carved out a niche for homeowners and dreamers who see potential in crumbling walls and overgrown yards. These blogs blend personal storytelling with actionable advice, covering everything from demolition to design. In Portland, Oregon, where older homes and quirky lots are common, such blogs resonate deeply with a community that values character and sustainability. They offer a mix of emotional ups and downs, budget breakdowns, and hard-won lessons, making them both relatable and educational. For anyone considering a similar project, these blogs serve as both a cautionary tale and a source of motivation.
How We Evaluated These Renovation Blogs
To bring you this list, we looked at each blog's ability to document the renovation journey authentically, the clarity of its advice, and how well it connects with a local Portland audience. We also considered the diversity of content, from DIY tutorials to personal anecdotes, and how each blog balances inspiration with practical takeaways. Each blog stood out for its unique voice and approach, whether it's a focus on preserving historical charm, a step-by-step guide for beginners, or a personal diary of transforming a derelict property into a home.
Here's a quick look at the five blogs that made our list, each offering a distinct perspective on renovating old or neglected properties.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Young House Love | DIY enthusiasts seeking step-by-step tutorials |
| Claire Mancha's Goodwood, an urban mini-estate near Portland Oregon | Portland locals and dog lovers seeking a personal renovation journey |
| Sara Gray | Realistic renovation diaries with a local Portland perspective |
| Jen McFadyen | Preserving the charm of old homes during renovation |
| Fifi McGee | First-time renovators needing a structured roadmap |
The Blogs That Inspire and Educate
#1 Young House Love
A screenshot of the Young House Love website.
Young House Love is a powerhouse of DIY and home improvement content, with a focus on making renovation projects accessible to everyone. You'll find detailed tutorials on everything from installing drip irrigation to organizing digitized photos, all written in a friendly, approachable tone. The blog's strength lies in its ability to break down complex projects into manageable steps, perfect for first-time renovators. They also share before-and-afters of their own homes, giving you a real sense of the transformation process. If you're looking for practical, budget-friendly ideas, this is a goldmine. Their recent posts on photo digitization and garden irrigation show a commitment to both home and lifestyle improvement.
#2 Claire Mancha's Goodwood, an urban mini-estate near Portland Oregon
A screenshot of the Claire Mancha's Goodwood, an urban mini-estate near Portland Oregon website.
Claire Mancha's Goodwood is a personal blog that chronicles her mission to transform a two-acre derelict property in Portland, Oregon, into a vibrant urban mini-estate. The blog is a delightful mix of renovation updates, gardening adventures, and her passion for breeding standard smooth dachshunds. You'll also find glimpses into her flower business, Eden's Bower, and her love for thrift store finds. It's a refreshingly honest look at the ups and downs of taking on a massive project, with a strong sense of place and community. If you're in the Pacific Northwest and dreaming of reviving an old property, this blog feels like a friendly chat with a neighbor who's been there. Her unique blend of hobbies and renovation makes it a must-read for anyone interested in a holistic approach to home and life.
#3 Sara Gray
A screenshot of the Sara Gray website.
Sara Gray, a real estate broker in Portland, shares her own renovation diary of a 1975 ranch home, offering a unique insider perspective. Her blog documents the entire process, from demolition to design, with a focus on the realities of budgeting and decision-making. You'll appreciate her candid reflections on the physical and emotional toll of renovation, as well as her practical tips for tackling projects. As a local, she brings a Portland-specific lens to the challenges of updating an older home. Her diary format makes it easy to follow along and learn from her mistakes and successes. If you're considering a similar project in the area, her experience is invaluable.
#4 Jen McFadyen
A screenshot of the Jen McFadyen website.
Jen McFadyen's blog focuses on renovating a 1920s two-story home with a strong emphasis on preserving its original charm. She breaks down her project list by priority, from ASAP fixes to nice-to-haves, which is incredibly helpful for planning your own renovation. Her passion for architectural details shines through, and she offers a clear vision for how to modernize while respecting the past. You'll find practical advice on everything from sheetrock to lighting, all delivered with an encouraging tone. If you're drawn to older homes and want to maintain their character, this blog is a great resource. Her approach is both thoughtful and actionable, making it easy to apply her ideas to your own space.
#5 Fifi McGee
A screenshot of the Fifi McGee website.
Fifi McGee's blog is a comprehensive guide for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of renovating a house. She offers a step-by-step approach, starting with the very basics of where to begin, which is perfect for beginners. Her content includes detailed project case studies, cost guides, and renovation advice, all presented in a supportive and friendly manner. You'll find inspiration from her own 1930s house renovation and those of her clients, with plenty of before-and-afters. If you're looking for a structured way to tackle a renovation project, her guides are a lifesaver. She also provides services like interior design and renovation support, making her a one-stop shop for guidance.
How to Choose the Right Renovation Blog for You
When picking a renovation blog to follow, consider your own project's scope and your experience level. If you're a DIY enthusiast who loves hands-on tutorials, Young House Love's practical guides will serve you well. For a deeply personal and local perspective, especially if you're in Portland, Claire Mancha's Goodwood offers a unique blend of renovation and lifestyle. If you're renovating an older home and want to preserve its character, Jen McFadyen's focus on architectural details is invaluable. For a structured, step-by-step approach, Fifi McGee's guides are perfect for beginners. And if you want a realistic, diary-style account of the renovation process, Sara Gray's blog provides that raw, honest look. Think about what you need most—whether it's inspiration, practical advice, or a sense of community—and choose accordingly.
Streamline Your Renovation Research with Automation
You can use automation tools to stay updated on your favorite renovation blogs without constantly checking for new posts. Set up an RSS feed aggregator like Feedly to pull in new content from all these blogs in one place. Alternatively, use a tool like IFTTT to send new blog posts directly to your email or a dedicated Slack channel. This way, you'll never miss a renovation tip or before-and-after reveal, and you can easily compare approaches across different bloggers. Automating your reading list saves time and ensures you're always in the loop.
Bringing It All Together
Each of these five blogs offers a unique window into the world of derelict property renovation, from the practical to the personal. Whether you're drawn to the DIY tutorials of Young House Love, the local charm of Claire Mancha's Goodwood, or the structured guidance of Fifi McGee, there's something here for every renovator. Remember, the best blog for you is one that resonates with your own project and inspires you to keep going, even when the demolition dust settles. So pick a few, dive in, and start planning your own transformation.