So you've bought a fixer-upper or 'handy man special' and someday it will be your dream home. Visions of an open plan kitchen and living room keep you up at night, but right now it's a mess of knob and tube wiring, wood paneling and rotting wood.

Maybe it's a neglected turn of the century craftsman, mid-century modern or the dreaded 'Vancouver Special', but your goal is clear: drag it into the 21st century without breaking the bank.  However, the first step in rehabbing or renovating seems about as confusing as the tile section at the Home Depot.

You're crying out for help and perhaps your prayers have been answered.  This Saturday, February 19th, the Vancouver Heritage Foundation is conducting 'Avoid the Money Pit: Planning & Managing Your Project' as part of its Old School Courses.

The all-day course costs $125, during which a panel of architects and construction experts (Birmingham & Wood Architects and Smallworks Studios) will guide you through the planning, financial and construction process which will make your project a success.  Register for the course HERE.

The Vancouver Heritage Foundation is self-described as "a registered charity that is dedicated to supporting the conservation of the city’s heritage buildings through education, public awareness and granting activities." 

The foundation also runs the very popular Vancouver Heritage House tour in June, in addition to many other courses, lectures and tours that celebrate the city's unique buildings and architecture.