The Search is On!

Ryan and I often use the term “one day” to describe things we want in life. For example, “When we can finally afford to get married…one day!” Or, “One day, when we have kids…” Ryan’s favorite, “That’s what truck I want…one day maybe I can get it.”

Well, one of our “one days” has finally come around to present day. We are starting the search for our first house! Scratch the word house…we’re looking for a HOME!

We moved out of his parents’ house early last October, after staying there longer than we anticipated. No ill feelings. In fact, we could’ve stayed as long as we wanted, but it was just our time. We were thrilled to find an apartment that met all of our needs, including a double vanity in the master bath! We spent a whole week painting every room (and hallway) of the apartment because we couldn’t live in a sea of white walls. We purchased furniture, and have spent time decorating and adding our own touch. It’s a cozy little place that we enjoy, but it’s lacking one big thing… it’s an apartment, not a HOME, and we can’t call it our own.

After several weeks of talking through things (over and over again) and crunching the numbers, we’ve decided that we’re ready to take on this journey, and start a new chapter of our life…home ownership!  We’ve recently been preapproved to purchase a home, so with that letter in hand, we’re ready to start looking…and the overwhelming feeling of anxiety sets in…

I’ve been looking, searching, and scouring websites for houses that fall within our budget and comfort level. It’s not the easiest task considering we’re looking to remain in Alpharetta, one of the more expensive suburbs of Atlanta. In fact, it’s quite a chore. Location is the most important factor in our search (and a double vanity), so we’re not willing to sacrifice that. Time isn’t necessarily on our side either, considering our lease is up at the end of June. Four months. Time flies these days, and it certainly won’t slow down for Liz and Ryan to find their dream home. We’ve got our work cut out for us the next few months, but it’s a buyer’s market right now (plus we have an agent), so things will work out just like they’re supposed to.

If any of you want to keep an eye out for us, here is a list of our must haves:

·         Double vanity!

·         Big, level backyard for our kids (aka dogs)

·         3 BR, 2 BA (minimum)

·         Decent kitchen and bathrooms that don't need much work

·         Two car garage

There are a lot of other wants, but the wants are all negotiable. J

For now, the search is on!... I will certainly be keeping everyone posted on the progress!

Oh, and I know some people will read this and wonder when we're ever going to get married. The question arises, "If they're buying a house, does that mean they're putting off the wedding even longer?" My answer... ONE DAY, people! I'm sure that topic will be addressed in a future post.