Arts
Today, we are joined by Rachel Street, host of the DIY Network’s Philly Revival. Rachel has a lot to share with listeners today as she talks about what it takes to flip homes and why the Philadelphia real estate market is so unique. Rachel has had an exciting career path. Her dream was to be an opera singer, but in her youth, she had her first brush with construction working on carpentry projects with her dad. After a career as an opera singer in Italy, Rachel came back to Philadelphia and jumped into real estate. Rachel said, “I came into the real estate industry doing underwriting for commercial properties, but I had a real interest in residential. So, I became a residential broker and got started renovating houses as a contractor.” While Rachel was busy starting her business renovating and selling homes, she learned a lot about what works. “Most renovators think that neutral is the best way to go and that everything should be cookie cutter. I think the opposite. I am focused on design-driven renovations. I look for personality and charm in houses and try to bring that out,” Rachel commented After building a successful career, the opportunity to host a DIY show came, and she was excited to share her vision with others. She also found that there were other women working in construction. “Before the show, I hadn’t met many women in the field. Now, I’ve been able to grow a community of women who have the same love for renovating that I do,” Rachel shared. She also loves working in Philadelphia because of its culture and history. “There are so many unique neighborhoods and older homes to renovate, which I love. I want to honor the history but also add in some modern elements,” Rachel said. Get some inspiring ideas as to the trends Rachel is seeing in home design, and why she thinks color is critical to a successful flip by listening to the full podcast.