House Hunting

We went house hunting yesterday, realtor and all.  We have both decided that maintenance free and mobile is where we want to be.  Mobile, because it will only be a few years before we move to Florida, hopefully for good.  My grown up "big kid" wants to feel the luv of Disney World and other fatal attractions.  I'm glad it's not all about roller coasters, cuz I just CAN 'T do them.  I tried.  Motion sickness to the max.  Blah.  Oh, I was side-tracked.

After spending the whole day looking at condos and townhomes, generally new constructions, we arrived at this gated community that was to die for.  It has a great gym.  Believe me, I have seen the "fitness centers" that most places have, and this is a GREAT GYM.  State of the art with TVs on every cardio machine and a real weight circuit.  I'm in luv.  The pool and club house is lovely.  Every home has a garage, some attached, some not.  The gate is nice security.  I like that.  The first one we looked at I just said ooooooooooo.  Ceramic tile and hardwood floors, marble counter tops.  mmmmmmm.  Wide open living space, walk in closets.  Double sinks in the bathrooms.  Nice.  We looked at models, and some that were under construction.  They were all beautiful and very livable.  So, now what?

My man and I have decided, at least for now, NOT to get married.  Why screw up our retirement?  Social security, pensions, etc.  We have already combined our resources, and there are no secrets.......  After discussing it last night, we acknowledge that this is a big step in our relationship as well as financially.  We can pay cash for a house.  YES!  We can!  Do you believe that?  And I only got half of the assets from my divorce.  But, do we?  Is real estate a better investment than the usual stocks and bonds?  That started a whole new discussion.  Also, will I like this job, stay there for a while?  I think so.  The pay is good.  It is full time.  I will have benefits, especially health insurance.  And, starting IVs all day is what I really know how to do, so there is no real learning curve.  And, he is having the continuing problem with his back, which pushes him closer and closer to the April date of retirement.  That is right around the corner!  Decisions, decisions.