10 Things to Know About “Cheap Old Houses” Co-Founder Elizabeth Finkelstein

Inside+Out Upstate NY recently interviewed Elizabeth Finkelstein to learn about her passion for old houses and her fascinating journey building her business and a much-loved brand, Cheap Old Houses. Be sure to read our exclusive interview HERE.

Now, let’s get more intimate with this Hudson Valley powerhouse! Here are ten things to know about Elizabeth Finkelstein…

What is your most treasured possession?
If I said my house, it would be cliche. But, if I didn’t say my house, I’d be lying. So…

What or who is the greatest love of your life?
My son, Everett, and my husband, Ethan.

When and where were you the happiest?
I’m like everyone else. I love good, deep, meaningful conversation and I love to spend time with my family. I’ve had big moments in my life that have made me very happy, but lately, I’ve really been enjoying the small moments. Like, I have a sleepover with my 8 year old every Monday night. We wear matching pajamas. It makes me very happy.

What is your greatest fear?
Being forced to do something that goes against my values. It sounds like an insignificant fear, but it’s real! (My husband can vouch for how much this scares me, haha) And yet, business is all about compromise. In recent years especially, as my business has grown and I’ve had to juggle a lot more, I’ve had to learn to not make everything so precious. I think all people who consider themselves artists probably struggle with that.

What is your greatest extravagance?
Antiques, definitely. Beautiful, character-filled antiques that lend warmth and texture and personality.

What do you most value in your friends?
Authenticity. I don’t have much tolerance for pretense.

Which talent would you most like to have?
At this phase in my life, I really wish I could fearlessly operate power tools and lift heavy pieces of furniture all by myself.

Which living person do you most admire?
I admire anyone who leans deeply into their own truth and beliefs, despite the fear of what others might think.

What is joy for you?
Joy is being deeply immersed in my creative flow. Being allowed uninterrupted time and headspace to fall down a research rabbit hole, or get lost in the creative process of design. In a world that values multitasking, that’s not easy to come by.

If you could have one superpower what would it be?
Time travel, or course!

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Get your copy of the Cheap Old Houses book HERE

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Click HERE to see all of our exclusive interviews with the amazing folks that proudly call the Hudson Valley home.