One of the realtors I have worked with assured me that every buyer has it: remorse.
Mine continues as a mild chronic condition. I have long been torn between two desires. On the one hand, I have been wanting to become free of house maintenance and the innumerable obligations of being a homeowner. I was looking forward to finding a townhouse or condominium and simply paying the association fee so that someone else would be doing the maintenance chores. I would be free to pursue my other interests.
On the other hand, one of my interests is in the design of the environment around me. I have entertained notions of building or remodeling a house to fit my style. The technical challenge to do it in a sustainable, green-living, energy efficient manner was an additional attraction. Two of my friends have recently taken on new home construction projects. My envy and pleasure in seeing their creative processes tilted the balance toward taking on this odd house.
That, plus the limitations of townhouse space. I am not a dedicated woodworker in need of a full blown woodshop, but I do take on projects that sometimes utilize similar tools and working space. No townhomes or condominiums could offer this; I needed to customize some space in a single-family house or garage.
And be in the city. And be close to where I work. And be close to the light-rail. And not suffer airport noise. And be in a residential neighborhood. And… All these constraints were met in this quirky house. Which is a powerful antidote to buyer’s remorse.
And for the cost of the monthly association fee, I could hire my own maintenance workers!