House Hunting on the Longest Day

Today is the longest day of the year. Actually that isn't true, it just offers those of us in the Northern Hemisphere the most hours of daylight. I used the first four or so to sleep.

We've been frantically househunting for the past week or so. Since last Tuesday we have seen eight houses (although one was an impromptu visit with the realtor and we couldn't get in). Finding something great isn't easy. I could list pro-cons on every one, but I think we'll be making the selection soon. At the moment there appear to be three contenders.

The first is a house in Duxbury that is about 1 and a quarter miles up a dirt road. It is by far the biggest and is the most modern structure. The disadvantage is that it is surrounded by forest and so feels isolated. Internet would be by satellite (surprisingly affordable), so that is a downgrade from what we are used to. Also, no garage.

The second we looked at was for sale by owner. The little listing doesn't quite do it justice as it is quite clean and modern inside. We aren't fond of the raised ranch appearance, and of course one of the bedrooms and the large family room are half below ground. Still it is a nice and attractive property. This one is just down the road from where we live now.

The third likely choice we've found was the one we ended up at today but couldn't get in. It is the smallest and least modern of the houses we are considering. It also isn't anything incredible for architectural style, although so simple as to be unobtrusive. What it does have is six acres of beautiful property, including a decent summer view that is through hardwoods and so should open up even more in the winter. Despite being a mile up a dirt road it is practically next to town and does have services like cable and internet.

The decision is coming quickly, because we are getting less cooperation than hoped for from our landlord. We are already talking to the bank and have pre-qualified ourselves, so things could move fast. Feel free to give me your comments. If they are good enough I'll even let you come lend a hand to help move our stuff!