Yesterday we purchased airline tickets to visit Saint George next weekend. I get a day off of teaching due to the fourth of July weekend, so it seemed like good timing (albeit lousy pricing).
The girls are thrilled that Papa Kay is coming to play with them while we skip town (thanks, Dad!). Eli, on the other hand, gets to hang out with Mom and Dad while experiencing his first red-eye flight. It may be rough traveling, but we're anxious to maximize the time available for house hunting.
And so, if you have any advice for first-time homebuyers, feel free to share. I have a hard time deciding which pair of shoes to buy, so as you can imagine, I feel a bit overwhelmed by a decision that is this monumental.
At the moment, we're focusing on locating a good realtor in the St. George area, should you have any suggestions. We're also trying to get a feel for what neighborhoods might be best for a young family, so let us know if you know a place we ought to check out.
On the positive side, if I can manage to keep my stress levels in check, this long-weekend could be a fabulous bonding experience for Jason and I. We love being with all of our kids, but when you trim down from three to one, it feels practically like a date!
5 comments:
Hey Kara-
Here's my two bits. I grew up in Santa Clara--in my opinion it's a great place to be, the schools are good, the high school is close and lots of good quality people (I've been gone 10+ years, so things can change), but it is rather far from the main shopping areas. The Washington area has hugely expanded since I've left and I've heard good things about that area (although when I was growing Washington was kind of the "trouble" side of town). I would look at Ivins, it too has grown exponentially. I would stay away from anything in Dixie Downs (again my own bias here, but I think it is still the not so good part of town). Bloomington and Bloomington Hills is a nice too. I had a lot of friends who were realtors until the market went belly up so I don't have anyone to suggest, but who ever you find will know St. George area much better than me. Good luck! Are you looking to rent or buy? My parents are actually selling their home in Santa Clara, but it is quite large and I don't think it's what you are looking for. Where will Jason be working? That will probably be your biggest factor on what area. This is all just my advice so take it for what it's worth. As they say, "advice is free...." Have fun--it'll be HOT!--Andrea
My advice is to make a list of must haves/deal breakers or even just strong desires. You can then give the list to your agent before you even go/start looking and then you won't have too many options to choose from. Also you won't be tempted to let something flashy trump something you've been wanting for years. For instance: I will never again buy a house without a coat closet. Sounds silly, but it's important to me.
I love the part where you said "feels practically like a date!" I hear you on that one! We stayed a weekend in a nice neighborhood that had an awesome, (I mean awesome!) spray park/playground within walking distance. I'll find out what neighborhood it was for you. Although it was new construction, it just dawned on me that you might not be looking for that.
PS Talyn, I TOTALLY agree with you on the coat closet. It makes such a difference!
Kara (Xuan Oi) Since the Wade's are in Saint George I bet Sister Wade would be able to recommend a good Realtor. Have fun in the looking process and don't pay attention to wall colors or carpets -- they can be changed. Think of the spaces and how they'll fit your family.
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