Poverty - A story of home ownership

Okay, I admit that the post title is pretty bleak, but we really shouldn't have anything to complain about. It's not like the majority of things we've had to pay for were unknown. Sure, we've spent more on the rental suite than we planned, but we both knew expenses would exceed what we anticipated, and we're hoping that it pays off in the long run.

It's not just about the house...

Patio stuff...who woulda thought to budget for that?

 

For any of you out there that aren't home owners, there are lots of unexpected costs. Not only are there legal fees, inspection fees, property transfer taxes and the lot, no one ever plans for the extras. Things like furniture...that little items, like the exact right table for that quirky little corner, or the perfect paint colour. I could rhapsodise over the "little" things. Electrical work, exterior painting, coffee tables, a new TV.

Of course, you don't NEED many of those things (except electricity...why have a dining room, if there isn't any light?). We've learned along the way, that it's better to invest in good quality furniture than dropping several hundred dollars on a mid-range sofa every 3-5 years, that solid wood for dining tables is better than MDF, at least, more often than not. Does that mean that we're always prepared for the unexpected? That we over budget and under spend? Hells 2 the no.

Never framed something, better learn!

Great you have a lawnmower, but you need a snowblower!

Ran out of gas...in minus 25...no problem

 Home ownership (particularly a house over 100 years) is not for the faint of heart or light of pocket book. (Oh well, fake it 'til you make it, am I right?)

Our summer is pretty well laid out for us...exterior repair (window sills and other wood works), exterior paintintg some minor glazing..yup, some of our sun porch windows need reglazing. Plus the bug screens that need replacing and general cleaning, tidying, gutter cleaning and trim work...we're in for a long summer full of work, expenditures and (hopefully) a truly beautiful house at the end of it. (As MasterCard says "priceless"!)

 

 

 Is it worth it? Yeah, usually, with some prudent decisions and damned good luck. Is it for everyone? No. Houses are la bit like children, they need stuff. They need love and maintenance, they need limits and a certain fatalistic calm. Generally, we enjoy it, with all the headaches, endless requirements for money and attention. Just don't get into it without realizing the dedication required.