Purchasing a Home: The Reality of Living Your Dream
When my wife and I decided to purchase a house in the Central Valley of California, we envisioned a perfect blend of a dream home and a garage for our big dreams. The house, which is just under 1300 square feet in area but stands on a 9000 square foot lot, ticked all the right boxes for us. However, the reality of living in this home has been quite different from our expectations.
Location, Location, Location
One of the major reasons we fell in love with this house was its prime location. It was just a mile away from the lively town center and easily accessible to the interstate. The quiet and peaceful subdivision made it an ideal place for us, especially given our desire for a serene living environment. The cool little suburb town center, within a short walking distance, promised easy access to shopping, restaurants, and other amenities.
The backyard, as you can see in the image from May 31, 2023, looked like a blank canvas. This was exactly what I had been looking for as a keen gardener. The large open back and front yards had been neglected by the previous owner, offering a clear palette for us to start anew. The open space in the backyard enthused me a great deal and made it the first highlight for me about the house.
Space and Functionality
Space and functionality were key considerations in our decision to purchase this house. The house has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room combined with a dining room, a small but nicely placed kitchen, and a laundry space. Additionally, the front of the house features a double garage, which is a significant plus for my needs as a person who relies on a guide dog for navigation.
For me: The front and back yards provided the perfect space for gardening projects. As someone with a passion for horticulture, I was excited about bringing my green thumb to life. The opportunity to transform the yards from a blank slate to a vibrant garden was a major factor in my decision to buy.
For my wife: The house was a godsend for her too. It was located within a half-hour drive from her school, making the commute manageable. This was a significant plus, especially since her job as a middle school teacher required her to have a separate space to work. The additional bedrooms provided her the perfect spot for planning and grading, ensuring she could work in peace without hindering my working-from-home routine.
The Pros and Cons
One of the initial attractions of the house was the idea of renovating it. I thought the process of fixing up the home and making it 'mine' would be an enjoyable experience. To be honest, I imagined it would be a lot more entertaining than it actually was. Over the years, the renovation process has been a lot of work and has required a significant amount of my time and money.
The house also provided ample space for our guide dog, who would retire to the backyard during the day and have his own space for a second dog in the future. The proximity to shopping and the possibility of walking to local parks made the decision even more appealing.
Conclusion: A Home Is More Than a Battle of the Bricks
Buying a house is more than just a transaction; it's an extension of life. While the house in the Central Valley of California offered many practical and emotional benefits, it also came with its share of challenges. The reality of living in a newly purchased home often diverges from our initial hopes and dreams. The process of renovating and making the house a reflection of our personalities can be both rewarding and exhausting.