Just (just!) managed to afford a (pretty shitty) house. Ripped out the stinky carpets, peeled off the 736 layers of wallpaper. Only 3 kids and me. I'd done a lot when my sister looked after the kids and took them in. They were appalled and want the fireplaces I've restored boarded over and are just obsessed with LED lights. I've explained that it needs plastering and room makeovers take a while... and that by half term we will be half way and by summer holidays they will mostly be done.
I know it's all ok and they will be fine etc etc but a) how to manage kids expectations with a renovation and b) nearly teen eldest DC is horrified at the fireplace and I'd like to see how to make it look 'cool'...!!