If you see "Where to invade next" (Michael Moore's new movie) it is a fascinating insight into some scandi (and Icelandic and a few suprises!) culture. Makes me realise our lemming like behaviour to follow 'merica is very misguided!

Further to Julia and Julia's decking and planting comments I would consider tidying up the front eave. At the moment the carport and verandah look like late add-ons (which they are) due to the "stepped" gable. By extending the verandah and carport roofs forward to align with the front gable fascia, then adding a consistant fascia and eave lining across the full width of the house the side additions will look more integrated. Don't even think about a faux stone as they look fake, and you will need to continue it down the sides so it looks less tacky. I would consider just painting below the beading line a darker shade of the wall colour to anchor the base of the house. I would not widen the windows as the rythym works quite nicely, but consider increasing the height to the ceiling line to give a better proportion using awning style windows instead of poorly proportioned sliding windows. If you have ceilings that slope to match the roof line the head of each new window should be raked to follow the ceiling line. If this is the case then you will have a nice looking home with a slight mid-century modern vibe, and which may even be the best looking house in the street! Best of luck Dr Retro of Dr Retro House Calls

Ok, you have mould in cabinets under sink. They will need to be pulled out and disposed of. No way around that. You should be able to keep doors and bench. It may only be the cabinet that holds sink. This smell will never go away until the affected units are taken out. So spend money on that. Get a handyman/carpenter to help pull out those cabinets and replace them. Don’t waste money on a buffet. It won’t save you any money. I’d measure cabinets and call Bunnings kitchens. See if they have flat pack to suit and can recommend a tradie,

While I sort of agree with you Christine , a really expensive place tends to feel more fragile to me -- you are too worried about breaking something IMO . And as far as providing employment etc , which is good , I liken it to classic cars , which is my background . These houses are comparable , to me , as say a 1930's Rolls Royce or Bugatti or similar . People will spend as much or more than what a car is worth , to get it back to 'original' condition . And even then , you are worried about leaving it parked , you don't drive it at busy times , and you definitely don't take it out of town . It's termed garage art -- mostly sits there . Supply and demand means your 1930's model might be worth as much as buying a brand new RR or Bugatti , it has character , but you can't compare the ride , the reliability , the fit and finish . These houses feel almost too precious to live in to me .