Nor the Light of Day

Before

The story behind this neighbor's home is tragic.

For many years, the owner would not allow those closest to her, even family, enter her home, nor the light of day.

I will avoid much of this story out of respect, except for her being found deceased in the home after several days of her passing.

A relative inherited this situation and is trying to manage what was not only neglected on the outside, but equally or even more so with the interior and the structure.

Before

It has consumed much of his time, his thoughts - what to restore, what to repair and to what extent in order to sell the property, and in what condition. It doesn't help that he lives over an hour away, has a family and a business to manage.

We discussed addressing much of the plant life, but he simply wanted the front portion of the home beautified, somewhat, and visible. At this point we weren't aiming for well-manicured.

The before photos were taken in 2025 and the after photos were shot this February.

Before

Not visible are the many vines and other unwanted growth we removed from the house. We also discovered the water meter, an irrigation box and a hose bib, among other things, during our work.

There was much pruning and plenty of unwanted-growth removal.

He didn't want to address the trees and shrubs surrounding a deck (Believe it or not.) at the rear of the property; however, the deck area needed to be cleared for access to and provide safer passage to the rear doorway.

He mentioned clearing an area from the fence gate to the side door. He is envied by no one - this task still mostly ahead of him.

This property is across the street from mine and I have slowly experienced its degradation. It is comforting to now see most of the home I viewed so many years ago.

I look forward to seeing him most any Sunday morning as he visits to clean out and care for what he can, while I have a cup of Joe, but I am certain he looks forward to the day when his travels take him elsewhere.

Feel free to select any photo for a better view.

After

After

After