This is a sequel to my May 2021 post on “Glad to be our own broker,” in which I talked about selling our previous residence. Today’s blog could very well be entitled, “Glad to be our own general contractor” because I have identified most of the contractors myself and coordinated their schedules to get to the end goal – of moving in – in the most time-effective manner.
On July 29, 2021, we closed on a lovely condominium that both David and I liked a lot. None of the renovation activities started until 3.5 weeks later, however, because, per the purchase agreement, the seller stayed there until that weekend.
It was August 23, 2021, when the renovations began. All new floors throughout, except where only resurfacing were necessary; kitchen remodels with all new appliances, and knocked-down walls, making it not only much more spacious but creating extra dining spaces; plumbing and electrical upgrades; a mancave for David in the basement; epoxy coating for the garage floor; fresh paint throughout, including the garage; power wash, re-stain, and repairs of the double decks (not originally in the budget); and, of course, the security system activated. Professional cleaners for windows and interior, respectively, are scheduled. With the updates on the opposite end of the unit, we are essentially recreating a master suite, including an office, much like what we had in our previous house. Our target move-in date is October 7, 2021. This makes it slightly longer than six weeks, from start to finish, for the renovation.
We have been blessed with an incredibly talented group of contractors, most of whom came with high ratings on Yelp; some had done the work for us previously; one of them was chosen from an investor group to which we belong. Not all but many of them are first-generation immigrants, like me. Regardless of their backgrounds, each contractor, most of whom run their own businesses (as I do), treats time as the most precious commodity. They all know their reputation is everything to sustaining their businesses. They get the job done and move on. In the real world, right here in America, capitalism is working its magic for this consumer, who is willing to pay a fair price for each job done well.
Having closed on this condominium in the middle of the summer, the backyard – with a tiny stream running through the area – has been filled with lush green trees. We have yet to look forward to the fall and winter colors.
Since having sold the previous residence with exorbitant property taxes, I have already begun relaxing quite a bit more. I like knowing that I am finally able to enjoy life with David to the max when our daily lives begin at the new – and hopefully the last – residence for the rest of our lives. We were at the previous residence for 37 years. The residual effect of the 2008 fire was what ultimately forced the change of address. Considering everything, however, it is as if this change for the better was always meant to be. I love everything about our new home, its location, and the surrounding areas. Above all else, home is where you share your life with the one you love, wherever it may be.
Life is good.
