After a summer of committing to the Buy Local Challenge, which involved only buying locally grown produce and products from locally owned businesses, it was only natural when we purchased the Humphreys House, that we would want to continue the same practice. We all have fallen into the habit of shopping at the big box stores because of convenience and the perception that the prices really are that much better. In reality the lower prices and conveniences are not always the case. 

The Humphreys House happens to be very close to Adkins Company, a locally owned and operated company founded in 1908. From this local company we were able to purchase our drywall and had it delivered via forklift, just across the railroad tracks. How cool is that? We also bought a new set of french doors and those last minute necessities that were needed to complete a days work. By purchasing from Adkins, not only were we supporting a local company, it was also much more convenient for us in this instance. 

Renovating a home entails hiring experts in the field to help complete the work in a timely manner. After years of working in construction, we do have contacts that we trust to do the work and do it well. When we decided to install a new, efficient HVAC unit, we called in Jess Hines to advise us on the best most efficient unit for such an old, drafty home, as well as to take care of the installation. (On a side note, I love the vents he chose!) We also used Aaron from Teco Electric to run some new electric, and Seaside Plumbing and Darrin of Maintenance Connection to handle the drywall. Have you ever seen the walls in a 100 year old home? Not the straightest to work with, but Darrin made them look amazing. 

All in all the experience has been wonderful, and we look forward to the rest of the adventure!