We are moving out from our house
not only to downsize but also the market of the house plunges and it is not
worth keeping for. Yes, one of our friends who are in real estate business advices
us that it is not worth keeping. By the time we paid the house in 30-year
non-fixed rate, we will be paying almost a $700,000.00 for an old, two-bedroom
house. Since my husband plans to retire, we have to downsize. The market value
of our house plunges and if we put it on the market we could not even sell it
not even for the price of what is being paid for. I felt so depressed because I
have never lived in the apartment or townhouses before. However, I should have
to think of my husband too. This is what he really wanted besides he is not a
handyman and maintaining a house cost us an arm and a leg since my husband didn’t know
a lot of things when it comes to a house.
So before taking steps and putting
the house into a market, we decided to look for a nice place to stay. We have
checked from mobile homes to a gated townhomes. Start with the mobile homes.
Mobile homes are very convenient yet not that cheap either. To think, renting
the lot will cost you about $700 to $900. In addition, you need to consider renting
the mobile home for $300 to $500. Of
course, all renters are expected to pay their utilities. However, not all
mobile homes are new most of them are older model. Then, we decided to check apartments. Most apartments offer a lease for 6 months to a
year. Renting will cost you from $1,100 to $1600 of course this will depend on
how many bedrooms and bath you want. A single bed and a single bath will cost
you about 1,100 on a lease price and terms. However, most of the single bedroom
and single bath unit do not include washer and dryer and no garage attached to
it. Every time, I ask the details I also ask the amenities, what has included
in each unit. I love to have my own washer and dryer and of course, a personal
garage attached to my unit. Some apartments offer these amenities, however not
all. Most of the time, you will find out
tandem garages rather than side-by-side garage. The main problem living in an apartment is the parking itself.
Tandem garage could only occupy two cars as the word tandem means. Therefore,
it is better to check these garages too. These garages are narrow but can accommodate
two cars. Parking is very important to consider when moving. An average family
has 2 or more cars so it is better to check the garage or parking on the terms
of the apartment or townhouses. So then, we’ve been to 10 apartments. Each apartment
has its own rules and regulations so it is better to ask the management about it or at least have an idea. Among the
10 apartments, we’ve found couple apartments we like but why not try to look
for a townhomes. Then we decided again to look for townhomes. We came to a very
nice, new, gated Townhome. The gate is so nice that it makes me think as if we
are in Beverly Hills. As we get in, we look around the area and seem nice and well
maintained. So, we talked to the woman at the front desk. She’s very friendly
and could really convince anyone to rent. After discussing the amenities, utilities,
the regulations, the parking, and the fees, she toured us to the model homes. Wow,
I am so impressed. The space is just
enough for me and my husband. We can use the gym, sauna, and swimming pool however,
it is time regulated too. I just love the townhouse concept and the idea of
having the garage attached to the unit. Now, my concern is what kind of
neighbor I will have. Anyways, talking about having a neighbor that’s a
different story. Even if you owned a house, it will never guarantee you having
a good neighbor. While it’s already predicted in the Bible. “Love your neighbor
as yourself” which means a neighbor to neighbor problems existed long time ago.
Most of the time, you do not get along with your neighbor. I do not mind living
in a very simple and clean place as long as I have good neighbors. We had a
neighbor that lets their dog crap in our yard. It was disgusting and it really
bothers you. However, talking to them will just get the problem worse. Some neighbors
couldn’t just mind their own business. Some are not friendly and some are
friendly. Well, it seems you can't
please everybody.
Well, hoping this move and being
in a new place will give us satisfaction. Of course, there are pros and cons
but it's how you handle things that matters. I do not think there is such a perfect
place in this world while we always need to associate our self in the group
through our workplace, driving and sharing the road to everybody and there’s
always a mutual benefit and dependence. As they say, “No man is an island” and
this is so true. Well, I pray we will have a good neighbor and just like anybody
else who pursue a quiet, nice, and clean place to live in. Hoping everything
will work out good and Good luck to us!!!
