YES! Limbing up is exactly what I'm looking for. We're having some horribly expensive brickwork done next summer and the house will be looking even spiffier (blew our minimal budget on leveling the foundation this summer), but even with the somewhat wonky brickwork it's still a pretty house and deserves to be seen from the road. After taking down the chainlink I was so happy when we pulled into the driveway and saw the front of the house. I didn't realize how much that fence was detracting from the curb appeal. I also remembered the little brick ledges on the house under the windows. I think they're intended for flower pots, at least that's what my neighbor uses hers for. I will definitely be doing that. Question: almost all houses in my neighborhood only have rectangular flower beds in front. I figured it was an era thing. Should I still go for a lima bean shape? I'm going to drive with my friend through similar-era neighborhoods in Houston and take pictures of front gardens for inspiration. (I live on the east side near U of H, but the Heights, River Oaks, Eastwood, West University and other (much more upscale) neighborhoods were all built with brick bungalows in the 1930s.) Thanks to all of you all for your advice! You've def got the ball rolling in my head.

I know from personal experience that this type of place appeals to horse owners on a budget. Usually they don't care so much about the interior of the house so long as it is sound, they are much more concerned whether there is water and electric to the outbuilding, if the place can be fenced or if it is fenced, if the fence is sturdy, grazing areas, a place to ride... It might be worth you while to advertise it as a horse place if horses are allowed and the questions here can be answered. This would be in addition to other advertising you may do to the more generic "back to the land" type folks. There is a growing market in many places for homes with land such as yours. That close to town can also be a selling point," live in the country, even if you work in the city". best wishes

I'm no expert I just know a lot of people are doing cement board around me. I am not sure if they glue then screw and caulk to prevent hiding spaces. Best to check with an expert. However. It can all have the same look with a smooth stucco or other surface and scoring. Here is one with a slight two tone chimney. Not to much but enough to diminish the height a bit .

Nice progress, but I agree it would be better lowered at some point, and possibly loosened up. With of course that metal box someplace where your husband doesn't sit. :) Both rooms that are experienced mainly when sitting and low ceilings can be dealt with by mounting wall decor relatively low, and in the case of the latter letting attention focus below so that a ceiling can sort of "soar" without notice above.