lifestyle? • Are the neighbors mowing lawns or throwing
questionable garage bands in the driveway at midnight? • Can you see yourself going to the grocery store here? Walking your dog? Strolling to a local coffee shop that doesn’t call every drink a "cloud"? If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track. Budget vs. Champagne Taste Ah, the hard part: math. A lot of buyers make the rookie mistake of comparing rent to just the mortgage. Don’t forget to factor in: • Property taxes • Insurance • Maintenance (like that roof you ignored in favor of a hot tub) • HOA dues (yes, even the ones where you have to get permission to plant a tulip) Know your limits, and don’t fall for “we’ll figure it out later.” Later usually comes with a bill.
The Myth of the “Perfect” House Here’s the truth: No house is perfect.
Even your dream home might have a weird layout, a haunted- looking basement, or walls painted in fifty shades of avocado. But if it meets your needs, fits your budget, and sparks joy (without sparking actual electrical fires), it might just be perfect for you . Compromises will happen. The key is knowing what you’re willing to flex on—and what you’re absolutely not.
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