Ep 5. Run Down Family Rental

The show Big Texas Fix follows married couple Michael and Ashley Cordray as they take on the challenging task of restoring historic homes in their hometown of Galveston, Texas. In season 1 episode 5, entitled "Run Down Family Rental," the Cordrays take on a familial challenge. Ashley's sister, Lauren, has a rental property that has been in the family for years, but it is in desperate need of some TLC. The Cordrays step in to not only restore the property to its former glory, but to also create a space that can generate more income for Lauren.

As the episode begins, we see the family rental property in disarray. The exterior is overgrown with weeds, the porch is falling apart, and the paint is peeling. The interior is just as bad, with outdated fixtures and finishes, water damage, and a general lack of upkeep. The Cordrays waste no time in getting to work, starting with the exterior. Michael and his team clear out the dead bushes and weeds, repair the porch, and give the property a fresh coat of paint. The transformation is already impressive, but they have a long way to go.

Inside, Ashley and Lauren work on creating a new layout for the space. They decide to turn what was once a bedroom into a second living area, which will attract more renters and increase the property's value. The original living area will be updated with new light fixtures, paint, and furniture. The kitchen will also be given a complete makeover, with new cabinets and countertops.

The Cordrays run into a bit of a challenge when they discover water damage in one of the bedrooms. They must tear out the drywall and insulation and replace it before they can move forward with the renovation. They also uncover some surprises, such as a beautiful original fireplace hidden behind walls that will now be exposed and restored.

Throughout the episode, the Cordrays face their own set of challenges as well. Ashley struggles with the pressure of making sure her sister is happy with the renovation, while Michael deals with the stress of managing multiple renovation projects at once. Despite these obstacles, they remain focused on the end goal: a rental property that not only generates income for the family, but also honors the history and character of the home.

As the renovation nears completion, the Cordrays add finishing touches such as new window treatments, decor, and landscaping. The final reveal is both stunning and emotional, as Lauren sees her family's rental property restored to its former glory and transformed into a space that renters will flock to. The living area is cozy and inviting, the kitchen is bright and modern, and the new second living area provides ample space for entertaining. The exterior is also vastly improved, with a new porch swing and plenty of curb appeal.

Overall, season 1 episode 5 of Big Texas Fix showcases the challenges and rewards of taking on a family renovation project. The Cordrays use their expertise and passion for historic preservation to transform a run-down rental property into a beautiful and functional space. Their dedication to honoring the history and character of the home is evident throughout the entire renovation process, making for a heartwarming and inspiring episode.