A few weeks had passed, and I hadn’t received a single house listing from my son – unusual behavior from him. I assumed I’d been dismissed from the house-hunting team, my keen eye for deal-breakers no longer needed. Perhaps my son and daughter-in-law had decided to continue their search with the help of her father and stepmother, leaving me out of the loop.
Then, I received a message with a listing that caught my attention. The property was a stunning 2,688-square-foot, two-story home built in 1965, featuring five bedrooms and two baths, situated in the desired town and within their budget. The next day, I met the whole family at the property.
Unlike many listings, the house exceeded my expectations. The curb appeal was impressive, with matching garage doors, mature landscaping, and a beautiful decorative stone façade under the front-facing gable. The neighborhood was filled with well-maintained homes of similar size, increasing their value.
As we walked in, the realtor greeted us from the kitchen, where he was reading. He was knowledgeable about the house and neighborhood, without being pushy. The kitchen had been recently remodeled, boasting granite countertops, attractive cabinets, an island, and a tile floor. The hardwood floor in the living room looked refinished, and the family room, although needing some updates, had great potential.
The first-floor bathroom required some work, but nothing major. The wrought-iron railing on the stairs needed replacement, and two of the three second-floor bedrooms were a good size. The bathroom was in decent condition.
As a plumber, I was excited to explore the basement. The solid stairs led to a dry, unfinished space with no signs of water damage or pests. The current owners had set up a mini gym, and the framing was exceptional – a testament to the builder’s craftsmanship. The electrical panel had been updated, and the HVAC system was well-maintained.
The backyard was spacious, and the neighbors were at a comfortable distance. A shed provided ample storage for outdoor equipment. While some minor issues needed attention, there were no major deal-breakers.
When I gave my approval, my son and daughter-in-law seemed surprised. I’m glad I’d vetoed previous options, allowing them to find this gem. After over a year of searching, their offer was accepted, and they moved in early July. My wife and I couldn’t be happier for them.
Buying a house requires patience, especially in today’s market. With persistence, you’ll find the perfect home at an affordable price.
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