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Did you catch the season finale of Backed By The Bros? Between a couple investing their entire savings into a dream ADU rental, the ups and downs of renovations and permits, and the rush to get the unit finished on time, this week was a hands-on job that came with a ton of pivoting. And as long as these investors are realistic with their expectations and eager to learn, they stand to cash in big on their investment property.
“The people who are willing to listen—those are the people we want to help,” says Jonathan.
This is the biggest investment of this couple’s life, and there is so much on the line for them. A renovation this large takes a leap of faith, and they’re hoping all the stress will be worth it in the end. They want more than just a rental unit with modern finishes and a smart layout—they want a steady investment for years to come. But let’s back up to where it all started.
The Potential Backings
Denise
Denise and her husband have lived in the same house for 23 years. It’s a beautiful historic property that they’ve made careful effort to restore over the past 7 years. But now, they’re ready to take on a new project: the detached garage in the backyard.
Their goal is to earn some extra income. And since they finally have the time and resources to make the renovation happen, they’re ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work.
However, there is a lot of moisture damage inside, and Denise needs to do more research on historic renovation restrictions and permits. She and her husband want the Brothers’ help getting this ADU reno done as efficiently as possible.
Kristie & Tom
This couple has been dreaming of renovating their backyard ADU for years and are finally taking the leap now. They have $200K saved that they’re willing to put on the line to get this rental unit up and running, but they need help creating a space that will be successful.
The Bros assessed the space, and found that there was some water damage to the exterior stucco, as well as some other issues that would need to be fixed ahead of tenants moving in. But Kristie and Tom are willing to listen to the Bros’ advice to make sure their 2-bedroom rental reno is finished correctly.
Because the ADU is unpermitted, there is still some structural construction that has to be done before they can start on renovations. They need the Brothers’ help to make this the best investment possible.
So, Who Do The Bros Back?
In the end, Drew and Jonathan end up backing Kristie and Tom. They’ve made some mistakes already when it comes to their plans, and they’re in need of some help if they want this investment to be a success. Because Denise is just starting on her plans for her ADU renovation, there’s plenty of time before she’ll actually need Drew and Jonathan’s help with the construction and renovation process. In the meantime, the Bros will offer their guidance and advice to Denise.
While they get ready to start helping Kristie and Tom through their ADU rental, the Bros encourage them to stay optimistic. As first-time investors, it’s easy to get worried about whether or not you’re making the right decision, but you have to stay confident. Their backing will include 12 weeks’ work from a general contractor, design mentorship, and project mentorship, alongside some trades and materials to help move their renovation along.
“The biggest mistake most people make is—out of fear—they don’t pull the trigger on a good investment. I think this is a good investment, and there’s a lot of potential there,” says Jonathan.
Before and Afters
The Upstairs Landing
Originally, Kristie and Tom wanted to close off the exterior stairs, but they decided to take the Brothers’ advice and leave them as a second entrance into the rental. They also added a spiral staircase inside for added design value. This created a gorgeous landing that frames the door to the patio nicely.
The Kitchen
As they shifted their plans inside to accommodate certain spaces moving around, they decided to turn the kitchen into a sleek open layout. It’s complete with a cozy breakfast bar and design-forward style choices that prioritized organization and modern finishes.
The Living Area
The spiral staircase was a big topic of conversation during renovations, and very polarizing among the investors and Drew and Jonathan! In the end, the staircase was a stylish choice that adds value in its design and function. The space feels cozy and open, especially with the construction choices they made along the way to open up the interior.
Shop the Look
Check out the decor, furniture, and more seen in this episode–and get it for yourself!
Click here to see all of the items featured in this episode!
| wdt_ID | wdt_created_by | wdt_created_at | wdt_last_edited_by | wdt_last_edited_at | Room | Item Type | Product Name | Company | Product Code / Sku |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | karina | 10/09/2024 09:51 AM | WHOLE HOUSE | STAGING | N/A | SPRUCED HOME | N/A |
| 2 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | WHOLE HOUSE | FLOORING | PYRITE LVP | VILLAGIO WOOD FLOORS | PYRTE LVP |
| 3 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | EVERY ROOM | SHADES | ROLLER SOLAR SHADES | SMITH AND NOBLE | N/A |
| 4 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | LIVING ROOM | TV ART | "HILLS 1" | JUNIPER PRINTS | "HILLS 1" |
| 5 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | KITCHEN | APPLIANCE | Sharp 24 in. Bottom-Freezer Counter-Depth Refrigerator | SHARP | SJB1255GS |
| 6 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | KITCHEN | APPLIANCE | Stainless Steel European Convection Built-In Single Wall | SHARP | SWA3062GS |
| 7 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | KITCHEN | APPLIANCE | 30 in. width Induction Cooktop, European Black Mirror Finish Made with Premium SCHOTT Glass | SHARP | SDH3042DB |
| 8 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | KITCHEN | APPLIANCE | 24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. 950W Sharp Stainless Steel Smart Easy Wave Open Microwave Drawer Oven | SHARP | SMD2479JS |
| 9 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | KITCHEN | APPLIANCE | 24 in. Slide-In Smart 45 dB Dishwasher | SHARP | SDW6767HS |
| 10 | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | Kelly K. | 17/06/2024 04:56 PM | DOWNSTAIRS BATHROOM | LIGHTING | EGMONT MEDIUM SCONCE | DREW & JONATHAN | DJW1051MBK |
Backed By The Bros: Money Pit Turned Stunning Short-Term Rental
A once discouraging investment has now become a beautiful new opportunity.
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