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Post being replied to

I don't really hate anything about it... by Kbyrnes

...We've been in our current abode for 26+ years, and have certainly experienced all sorts of home-ownership issues as noted below. Roof replaced once; driveway once; chimney rebuilt; some windows replaced; furnace and AC replaced; carpeting and painting a few times; toilets replaced; washer and dryer and sump pumps and water heater and dishwasher and refrigerator and garage coach lights and probably other things replaced. I do my own lawn care, fertilizing, grub killer, etc., and now on my 3rd gas mower; I clear my own snow, and am now on my 2nd snowthrower (2-stage); and am in my 27th season of tomatoes, chili peppers, and assorted herbs (this year, basil, tarragon, cilantro, and the perennial oregano). Clip the viburnum, witch hazel, flowering crab, redtwig dogwood, forsythia, hydrangea, and yews as needed; clear up a ton of leaves from our maples and, when that's all done, pick up the giant sycamore leaves from our neighbor's late-releasing tree two lots south.

Don't forget paying the property taxes and insurance.

My advice for first-time homebuyers would be these two broad points:

1. You think you're buying a home. "Home" connotes a cozy place with comforts year-round, a pet curled up in the family room, kids frolicking, etc. Stop! You're purchasing a building, for which you will serve as the property manager. Be prepared to manage everything it takes to keep the building that will be your home in good order. Don't worry--many of us have done it.

2. When you apply for financing, realize that you are providing the lender (and mortgage broker, if you're using one) with an opportunity for them to make money. They should not order you around--you need to keep them on their toes. The first time I bought a house I kept waiting for the loan processor to call with updates. Ugh. The second time, I called the processor every morning. "Do you have this and that yet? Have you requested that other thing?" Once a week I'd call the broker or lead contact person for the loan to let them know how anxious we were to get it all done.