Looking back on the home hunt
We're in our new home, and while we're still far from settled, the home hunt has come to a very satisfactory conclusion. We found a place we love in a nice neighbourhood and close to transit. What more could we really ask for?
Looking back, I'm glad we focused so heavily on preparation prior to looking for a home. Knowing how much we were able, and willing, to spend and what our priorities were made the search a lot simpler. We still saw some duds, but even they still met some of our criteria.
I've also been asked by a few people if I think I was treated differently because I was writing about the process. My answer: I certainly hope not. I was thrilled with all of the help I received, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone else, with the hopes that any friends I send their way would receive the same excellent service.
Before announcing my home ownership aspirations in my blog, for my own peace of mind, and to avoid people looking just for free publicity, I researched my realtor and mortgage broker before contacting them, and spoke to them about my needs prior to revealing that I would be documenting the process.
While I'm sure that it made them a little bit nervous to know they'd be appearing in my blog, I think they tried to move past it and treat me like a normal client.
And the nerves seem to come with the territory. I've more than once heard "Please, don't blog about this" from my family and friends, and anyone dealing with me during this process probably had similar moments of concern that some small embarrassing detail would show up in my blog.
While I do fear I sometimes make Mr. Speedy cringe, I strive to share only what's pertinent (or undeniably funny) and not unduly embarrass anyone, and I think that helps make everyone in my life — from my husband and friends to my realtor and handyman — a little more comfortable with the prospect.
And, as we wrap up, I certainly hope that my blog was helpful or entertaining for those who were following along! We're now ready, and thrilled, to be moving on to the next chapter: home ownership!
Catch up on the home hunt:
One week (+one day) til the move!
Packing, packing and more packing
So we bought the house, now what?
Home hunting makes me nauseous
How to know when the house is right?
Resources for first-time buyers
Finding Mr. or Mrs. Right ... Realtor, that is
I have worked as a home inspector for 10+ years. We have inspected everything you can think of. I take the time to read and write many blogs and articles on home inspection. This has been a tuff year most home inspectors. We are growing only because many companies have gone under sad.
Thanks for the post a joy to read, well done!
Posted by: Home Inspector | June 05, 2009 at 04:21 AM