He Must Be a Saint or Something

I just spent some time on the phone with owners of 4 homes that my prospective house builder has built or is in the process of building. I was heartened to hear that they are all very pleased with the work he and his crew have done. Some offered tidbits of advice. When I asked each set of owners if they were to build another house in the area, would they choose JL again, they all said yes. So I think I just might have hit on a good thing here. After the experience I had some years ago with a builder over a period of 4 years of litigation, I feel encouraged.

Now the difficult part begins: the size, the rooms, the placement, and the myriad of details that go into designing a home. Fortunately, I have friends and family who are always willing to help by giving me tips and clues, do's and don'ts, and must haves vs don't needs. The goal is to a have a home that is small, yet with open spaces and light; where most of the interior space is used daily, and where one always feels comfortable when h/she walks through the door. It sounds easy, but I know it will be hard. Outdoor space is equally important, being a bird owner/watcher.

The realtor just called to tell me interest rates are a little lower this week in case I need to know. (smile) This was not too long after the local mortgage broker phoned to ask how things were going. Delaware is surely a small community. So now I'll start thinking about interest rates these coming days. I am keeping a list of things to consider when designing the house. I just blurt out (in text) whatever comes to mind.

I should be closing on the property next week if the title search comes back by Friday. Then the fun begins. I'll then return to Indiana to check on Bubba and Spanky and get some needed design help from Ed and Sandy. (I wonder if they know this?)