Just one month ago, we were making adjustments and accepting that it may take a bit longer than expected to move to our forever homestead. My most recent blog post was even about this acquiescence. But, it wasn’t time to give up yet. Exciting news: We found a wonderful property and are set to close on August 1, 2022! The next phase of our lives is beginning and we couldn’t be more excited.
What changed in a month? Well, I said before that we weren’t necessarily giving up, just making adjustments. We had been looking for homes for a long time, and applied for a mortgage back in February. We decided to go to a showing of a property we had seen before, but had dismissed it for falling short of our square foot requirements. However, we looked closer and realized that it has a giant attic, so we went to check it out, with an idea about finishing the attic for our three youngest boys.
The house is a lovely 1888 Victorian. I found myself enamored by all of the character, from old door knobs to leaded glass windows and pocket doors. Meanwhile, Mr. Smith was having trouble finding any major issues with the property. The old three-story barn was really neat – and huge! But, the walk outside on just a part of the sixteen acres was what really won us over. We found ourselves just saying “Wow” over and over again. There are areas for gardens, for animals, woods, and the cutest little creek where the kids can play. We ended up negotiating an offer (which was less than the asking price) a few days later. The property is in a little village and had been on the market for about two months. It may have been too much house, too much land, or a little too out of the way for others, but it really is perfect for us.
The past few weeks have absolutely flown by. We had an inspection done and there were a few, relatively minor issues, which will be resolved with the seller’s concession. There was one big issue. There is a dirt floor in part of the basement. Mr. Smith said that we should order a radon test. I was like, “What’s radon?” Luckily, we did get the test, because there were very high levels of radon. The owner is having a radon mitigation system involved, so it won’t be an issue. But I highly suggest to all home buyers, even if you waive an inspection, GET A RADON TEST. Our professional test cost $180, and that price is nothing compared to the health of our family. All is moving along with the bank and we’ve already reached out to the school about enrolling the kids.
In a few short months, we will be finally moving on to our forever homestead. With hard work, dreams really do come true. The work is definitely not over though, it’s time to get packing!
