You Who?

And they're off!

Anyone who knows us is probably aware that we have been "starting to look" for a house for about 2 years. For us, "starting to look" has really meant keeping an eye on the web listings, but really we've been waiting to see how the economy went and if we remained employed, etc. Well, we have finally moved from the "starting" phase to the actual "looking" phase -- we've met with a buyers' broker and gotten pre-approved for a mortgage. Now we just need to find a house. We started with interest in Portsmouth (me) and Exeter (her). Our broker quickly crossed Portsmouth off the list, and instead had us look at a bunch of places in Stratham, which actually seems like a nice option. So now, it's Stratham and Exeter, maybe a little dabbling on the borders of Newfields, Hampton Falls or North Hampton. We'd like to look in Dover, but it's just not possible because of the wife's commute and that damn bridge which isn't going to be fixed until we're about ready to retire.

Our primary requirements are pretty basic: two car garage, easy access to 95 and something fairly new. Actually I'd like very new. I'm no Virgil -- I'm not handy with tools -- I don't want a fixer-upper or anything where I have to worry about replacing a furnance/roof/water heater, etc. Oh yeah, I also have a strict "no crawlspace" rule. And the yard shouldn't be too big -- I need something that I can hire Good Friend's youngest to mow, because I am not doing yard work. Yeah, that's right, I said it! OK, now all you homeowners can smile knowingly, raise your eyebrows, nod your head slowly and say "suuuurrrrree, no yard work." Just let me have my fantasy for now.