My 1940's single family house in Iowa could use some major repairs, but I'm not sure if I should do small projects with the cash I have available or save up and do some major updates.
About the House
My mustachian palace is a single story ranch house with cement block basement. 600 square feet on main level. Remaining mortgage is $65k, house is worth $90k. My monthly housing costs (principal+interest+property tax+insurance+utilities) are roughly $950.
About the Roof
The roof is a gable-shaped roof with one ridge across the center of my house, and a small hip section that protrudes out of the front half of the roof. There is no overhang (no eaves) - the rafters end at the edge of the house. The fascia boards are rotting, and the gutters pull out from the fascia, and then the rain/melting snow runs down the side of the house and right into the foundation.
About the Siding
My current siding material is aluminum, no idea how old.
When there is a driving horizontal rain, the wind lifts up the shingles and the water goes behind the siding, down the inside of my house, and drips onto the sill plate in my basement.
Because I have no idea what damage I will find when I pull away the siding, I want to be prepared for a costly renovation.
Where would you start if it were your house? I will try to add some pictures.