The First Steps: Expectations and Reality

I committed myself to the idea that with the new year (2009) it was a moment that I should look into and decide to peruse purchasing a home. My only real requirement was to remaining in the city proper. Admittedly I also had some other thoughts that would shape my expectations like: I didn't want to do a condo, because of the added cost of condo fees; nor a renovated property, because someone else's choices would probably not sit well with ones I would make; I simply wanted the opportunity to make a place my own, which meant finding something with the potential, or good bones as those in the business describes houses whose structures are solid though upgrades would still be recommended.

I found a real estate agent by recommended from acquaintances who had found properties and though the agent was helpful. My initial introduction and outing was to look at properties in the immediate neighborhood, Capitol Hill. Fortunately, the first meeting allowed me to see a property that became the model of what I would hold as possible in terms of a small space renovated successfully.

The other reality was the selling price of homes on the hill are far more than I was prepared to pay. My mid-western sensibilities would not in good conscious allow me of to consider dropping 400k on properties in desperate need of 200k in repairs. But that is the reality of established neighborhoods in DC.

My quick conclusion was I would have to look outside of the Hill for a home. This led me to focus on neigh hoods across the river. As history has recorded the railroad tracks or the river defined where affordable and often minority neighborhoods are situated.

Reflections on the Year Long Process of Becoming and Homeowner

Now that I have a little time and hope to gain more as the months of this new year pass, I will attempt to walk through the experience and share some of my insights.

As I struggle to find comfort in my new home I long for getting my simple life back. At present my mind and life still feels consumed with details related to the house. It is 2010 and I am slowly trying to establish that all important balance to my life.

Overall, I am pleased with my handling of this daunting process as a first timer. But my biggest struggle to settling in is my unexpected sensitivity to the noise that filters into my living space from the traffic. I am now on a mission to find an answer to this before it drives my mad.