After five years of apartment living I finally felt emotionally and financially ready to tackle buying a home all on my own. This was a big step for me since before I'd always had the security of a husband which meant two incomes, plus the fact that he was both an a-hole and an attorney pretty much guaranteed we didn't get screwed over in home-buying process.
So last week I found one. Not perfect but perfectly fine to move in as is. Lots of potential for remodeling in the future to make it a really great home. Most of the big stuff done, new roof, all new windows and garage doors, painting inside and out and kitchen redone.
Two of my very best friends in the world came over to see it during the home inspection today. These two know all the BS I've been through and I'm certain only want the best for me.
At first they were impressed, but the longer they stayed and looked around the more reservations they had. Understand that both of these people have been in their current homes more than 25 years so haven't been out looking at what's available on the market like I have.
I think I'm making a good decision and have thought through how I'll address the old HVAC system (home owners warranty), the small bedrooms (there's an upstairs dormer bedroom/bath next to unfinished attic space that could be remodeled to make a dynamite second master suite), the backyard needs work but I am looking forward to turning it in to something wonderful even though I know it will take some doing.
The biggest concern they had was the next door neighbors who have a rickety fence/retaining wall that is leaning into my yard's "air space" and that those neighbors have 3 dogs.
I was really pumped about this move because the timing, the location, the floor plan, and most everything was just what I was looking for but now I'm kind of thinking---am I being an idiot or are they just being overprotective because they care about me?
Part of it may be that I'm a much bigger risk-taker than either of them and my life is much less complicated; I don't have a husband or children at home that I have to worry about. Plus I have a lot more time and energy to do house projects and for me it's fun and entertaining--for them it's not.
I think I'm making the right decision but I do value the opinions of both of these women. It bothers me that I was really excited about this until they voiced their concerns. It makes me wonder if perhaps I'm not as convinced that this is a good decision for me. OR if I'm allowing someone else's idea about what is good for me to get in the way of what I really want.
So--I'm looking for a more objective opinion and advice from clearer heads.