Over there on the right >>>>>
You may notice my Flixster Ratings. Only slightly more addictive than crack, I have spent unmentionable time (hours) browsing, rating and writing mini reviews of my favourite - and some not so favourite - movies. I even got the Boy hooked. For trivia buffs they even have something called the Never Ending Quiz - my ratings are pretty darned pathetic, but it's good for a giggle.
Check out the MCT - it's a short movie compatibility test, and we'll see if we are truly "friends" or if our views on "what's hot and what's not" at the movies has us heading to divorce court! lol
August 15, 2006
August 14, 2006
Reading the fine print
The past few days have gone by in a flurry. Nothing earth-shattering to report perse, but enough to keep me busy. For saying I am supposedly on holls right now, I certainly don't feel like I have been laying around and taking it easy.
Wednesday evening I got a call from the sales agent at the building site to advise me that the builder had signed his acceptance of my offer. I picked up the documents Thursday morning, and headed straight over to the lawyer's office for him to go over the agreement. I am glad I did, as Saturday morning the lawyer called to point out a couple of items that had been missed. Nothing major, but items that still needed to be addressed, added or re-worded.
The lawyer was actually very helpful and he asked if I had already gone through all the documents myself. I confessed I hadn't. There is a pile of 2 inch thick legal documents sitting on my dining room table and as we talked I mentally promised myself that at some point I would sit down with a highlighter and go through them all. That "some point" is going to be today. I foresee endless pots of tea in my immediate future as I try to wade through the legaleese.
Saturday night J. and I headed out to the local dance to celebrate. The music was terrible (new DJ), cute guys were in very short supply or already taken, she was exhausted (she's renovating at home and had spent the day painting her bathroom) and I really didn't want to waste money (for obvious reasons) - so it was no surprise when just before midnight we decided to call it a day. I was home, face freshly scrubbed clean of makeup and in bed by 12:30! Wild party animal eh?
Sunday was spent cleaning. As most will know, I truly see housework as a chore. There are actually people out there who enjoy it...my god you need help. On the flip side, there is nothing I love more than a fresh, clean house however, so I knuckle down and suck it up. I did try to mentally calculate however, how many more times I will be scrubbing this bathroom before I move. (75 - based on an average of once a week - sigh)
Sunday afternoon I ventured out on a second date with the "prospect" from a few weeks ago. I had decided to give this one a second go, simply because we'd had such a good time the first time we went out, and perhaps I was being "too picky" when I had decided previously that there was no zing and cancelled our date. We went to see the new 9-11 movie, "World Trade Centre". I had a marvelous time. We can chat up a storm, I am very comfortable and relaxed with him - but still no zing. I can see him as a fantastic friend, but definitely not a love interest.
OK I have procrastinated for long enough...time to hit the legal papers....
Wednesday evening I got a call from the sales agent at the building site to advise me that the builder had signed his acceptance of my offer. I picked up the documents Thursday morning, and headed straight over to the lawyer's office for him to go over the agreement. I am glad I did, as Saturday morning the lawyer called to point out a couple of items that had been missed. Nothing major, but items that still needed to be addressed, added or re-worded.
The lawyer was actually very helpful and he asked if I had already gone through all the documents myself. I confessed I hadn't. There is a pile of 2 inch thick legal documents sitting on my dining room table and as we talked I mentally promised myself that at some point I would sit down with a highlighter and go through them all. That "some point" is going to be today. I foresee endless pots of tea in my immediate future as I try to wade through the legaleese.
Saturday night J. and I headed out to the local dance to celebrate. The music was terrible (new DJ), cute guys were in very short supply or already taken, she was exhausted (she's renovating at home and had spent the day painting her bathroom) and I really didn't want to waste money (for obvious reasons) - so it was no surprise when just before midnight we decided to call it a day. I was home, face freshly scrubbed clean of makeup and in bed by 12:30! Wild party animal eh?
Sunday was spent cleaning. As most will know, I truly see housework as a chore. There are actually people out there who enjoy it...my god you need help. On the flip side, there is nothing I love more than a fresh, clean house however, so I knuckle down and suck it up. I did try to mentally calculate however, how many more times I will be scrubbing this bathroom before I move. (75 - based on an average of once a week - sigh)
Sunday afternoon I ventured out on a second date with the "prospect" from a few weeks ago. I had decided to give this one a second go, simply because we'd had such a good time the first time we went out, and perhaps I was being "too picky" when I had decided previously that there was no zing and cancelled our date. We went to see the new 9-11 movie, "World Trade Centre". I had a marvelous time. We can chat up a storm, I am very comfortable and relaxed with him - but still no zing. I can see him as a fantastic friend, but definitely not a love interest.
OK I have procrastinated for long enough...time to hit the legal papers....
August 11, 2006
Back to normal...
Well, after two solid weeks of house, house, house...it's time to get back to other news.
There is none.
Well, other than the fact I was chatting with N. on the phone this morning - I was looking to see if he was interested in us "doing lunch". But he's busy at work and wants to leave early for the weekend - blah, blah, blah. Out of the blue I asked him if he was seeing anyone yet...and apparently he is. A girl he met whilst camping. They have been dating for "oh about a month and a half or two..." I mentally calculated how long it was since we broke up at the end of May and realized he sure got back onto the dating wagon fast.
I appreciate the fact that he wasn't "the one" for me and we didn't have that elusive "zing" but still...
Ouch.
First Maybe - who less than a year later is now engaged. Now N. It seems fellas, if you are looking to settle down with someone in the very near future the prerequisite would be to date and then dump me first. Ms. Wonderful will surely follow very shortly thereafter.
The queue forms to the right.
There is none.
Well, other than the fact I was chatting with N. on the phone this morning - I was looking to see if he was interested in us "doing lunch". But he's busy at work and wants to leave early for the weekend - blah, blah, blah. Out of the blue I asked him if he was seeing anyone yet...and apparently he is. A girl he met whilst camping. They have been dating for "oh about a month and a half or two..." I mentally calculated how long it was since we broke up at the end of May and realized he sure got back onto the dating wagon fast.
I appreciate the fact that he wasn't "the one" for me and we didn't have that elusive "zing" but still...
Ouch.
First Maybe - who less than a year later is now engaged. Now N. It seems fellas, if you are looking to settle down with someone in the very near future the prerequisite would be to date and then dump me first. Ms. Wonderful will surely follow very shortly thereafter.
The queue forms to the right.
August 8, 2006
Signing on the dotted line.
Well the offer has been made, the papers are signed - in duplicate x 10. And the deposit cheques signed and handed over. I am surprised I don't have writer's cramp!
The emotion of it all got to me - this truly is the realization of a life long dream. [Yes, I cried...I'm a sap.] Afterwards we drove around the corner to view the site, it's totally impossible to imagine what it look like a year and a half from now.
YAY!
The emotion of it all got to me - this truly is the realization of a life long dream. [Yes, I cried...I'm a sap.] Afterwards we drove around the corner to view the site, it's totally impossible to imagine what it look like a year and a half from now.
YAY!
August 7, 2006
Take Two: "Home Sweet...lot # 94!!"
After much humming and ha-ing, calculating square footage of each individual room, measuring and re-measuring rooms, we have decided to forgo lot 96, in favour of lot 94.
It's approximately an extra 250 square feet, between the two designs, for a total of just over 1500 sq. ft. The second set of plans at least means we can comfortably have room for the aforementioned "Oasis of luxury". An example of which is shown below, (these are photos we took at the showhouse, so it may not be exactly as shown in our house - but you get the general idea).
With the new plans the boy gets a slightly bigger room, and my kitchen/breakfast area will increase significantly to the point where I could possibly forego a formal "dining room" altogether and make the "living room/dining room" area strictly "living room/family room" space only.
Truth be told, I never entertain formally, heck if you're eating at my house, you are considered one of the family, in which case you can eat in the kitchen with the rest of us.
It's approximately an extra 250 square feet, between the two designs, for a total of just over 1500 sq. ft. The second set of plans at least means we can comfortably have room for the aforementioned "Oasis of luxury". An example of which is shown below, (these are photos we took at the showhouse, so it may not be exactly as shown in our house - but you get the general idea).
With the new plans the boy gets a slightly bigger room, and my kitchen/breakfast area will increase significantly to the point where I could possibly forego a formal "dining room" altogether and make the "living room/dining room" area strictly "living room/family room" space only.
Truth be told, I never entertain formally, heck if you're eating at my house, you are considered one of the family, in which case you can eat in the kitchen with the rest of us.
August 4, 2006
Now or later?
As Moonie hinted in the comments on the previous posts, the next decisions will be what to add onto the basic plans. What should I add now, what should (or could) wait until later?
Somethings obviously will be better to incorporate at the time of construction. Other items perhaps would be easy to add on later, saving money right now is a BIG item on my agenda, we need to avoid unnecessary expenses where at all possible.
OK - having said that....I am looking for feedback on the following:
Central Air. Yes, I know I am in Canada - but believe it or not we don't live year-round in igloos at minus 40. This week alone Southern Ontario (and yes, I know parts of Quebec too!) has sweltered under an oppressive 47 degree heat that has left us all wilted to say the least (117F for those still who still need the Fahrenheit scale). Where the boy and I live now, we don't have central air, and we have managed not too badly. We have window AC units, although this year we actually have decided to try and manage without it all. ("Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun," as Noel Coward would say). The house is constructed with ducting sized for future air conditioning. Seeing as AC is not a MUST HAVE for the boy and I....is it better to "do now...or do later?"
Flooring. As wonderful as hardwood floors are, this is something I definitely can wait for until later. The builders install a 35 oz broadloom with a 7/16" underpad as standard. So far everyone seems to be in agreement that this is one item I definitely need to upgrade. A thicker underpad will extend the life of the broadloom carpeting by years. Anyone have a suggestion as to what level to upgrade it to?
Ensuite bathroom. Now this one is a toughie. I have the option of upgrading the master bedroom ensuite from a standard 3 piece bathroom to a 4 piece "oasis of luxury" with a step up soaker tub, glass corner shower etc. Obviously all this doesn't come cheap, another $4,000...and it will eat into my actual bedroom space. Ahhhh decisions, decisions.
Rough-in bathroom in basement. The basement comes unfinished, but I do have the option of having a 3 piece bathroom roughed in for future possible renovations. Cheaper to do at time of construction, so they wont have to rip up all the concrete later to lay the pipes. Definitely increases the re-sale value. Thoughts?
Optional Cold Cellar. I also have the option of having an optional cold cellar excavated as an add on to the basement. More storage is wonderful. I am not much of a jams/ preserves kinda gal, but a wine cellar sounds wonderful...and a lot of the women at work have said they use their cold cellars for storage (canned goods, non-perishables etc). Again, adds to the resale value.
Gas Fireplace. In the living room this time. Now even the builder suggested not bothering with this upgrade, simply because it restricts furniture arrangement, takes up a wall, blah blah blah. I've always wanted a fireplace, although in my fantasies it had been an open fire and a bear skin rug, not a gas fireplace with glass enclosure. So perhaps the builder dude has a point. He suggests if I absolutely HAVE to have a fireplace then I should try one of those new electric plug in mantles that are available. Realistic looking, ornamental and totally PORTABLE. He may have a point.
Door from garage to house. This option is totally dependent on the grade of the property. But still an option.
Central Vac. Not something I have ever really thought about to be honest, and I haven't a clue how much they are charging for it yet. I have never had central vac. The idea of not lugging my vacuum cleaner upstairs however is very tempting. Any Central Vac users out there able to share the pros and cons? Anyone? Please?
Phone/TV Wiring. This one is a no brainer for me...and I am assuming I can get it upgraded, but I noticed in the "standard fixtures" list from the builder, that they rough-in telephone in the kitchen and master bedroom only, and in the living room and master bedroom only for cable TV. Both of these items I would like available in other rooms. In addition they only offer 1 exterior weather-proof electrical outlet. So I either don't have an outlet at the front or the back of the property. I'd like both.
OK, hopefully I haven't left anything out, I will update this later if I suddenly remember anything. I do however think I have to make some major decisions this coming Tuesday when I sign the agreement and hand over my deposit.
Feedback people...lemme know what you think!
OK you think I am bad now? Wait until we get onto choosing cabinets, countertops, tiles and carpetting. OMG - this is going to be the home version of "Bridezilla".
Somethings obviously will be better to incorporate at the time of construction. Other items perhaps would be easy to add on later, saving money right now is a BIG item on my agenda, we need to avoid unnecessary expenses where at all possible.
OK - having said that....I am looking for feedback on the following:
Central Air. Yes, I know I am in Canada - but believe it or not we don't live year-round in igloos at minus 40. This week alone Southern Ontario (and yes, I know parts of Quebec too!) has sweltered under an oppressive 47 degree heat that has left us all wilted to say the least (117F for those still who still need the Fahrenheit scale). Where the boy and I live now, we don't have central air, and we have managed not too badly. We have window AC units, although this year we actually have decided to try and manage without it all. ("Only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun," as Noel Coward would say). The house is constructed with ducting sized for future air conditioning. Seeing as AC is not a MUST HAVE for the boy and I....is it better to "do now...or do later?"
Flooring. As wonderful as hardwood floors are, this is something I definitely can wait for until later. The builders install a 35 oz broadloom with a 7/16" underpad as standard. So far everyone seems to be in agreement that this is one item I definitely need to upgrade. A thicker underpad will extend the life of the broadloom carpeting by years. Anyone have a suggestion as to what level to upgrade it to?
Ensuite bathroom. Now this one is a toughie. I have the option of upgrading the master bedroom ensuite from a standard 3 piece bathroom to a 4 piece "oasis of luxury" with a step up soaker tub, glass corner shower etc. Obviously all this doesn't come cheap, another $4,000...and it will eat into my actual bedroom space. Ahhhh decisions, decisions.
Rough-in bathroom in basement. The basement comes unfinished, but I do have the option of having a 3 piece bathroom roughed in for future possible renovations. Cheaper to do at time of construction, so they wont have to rip up all the concrete later to lay the pipes. Definitely increases the re-sale value. Thoughts?
Optional Cold Cellar. I also have the option of having an optional cold cellar excavated as an add on to the basement. More storage is wonderful. I am not much of a jams/ preserves kinda gal, but a wine cellar sounds wonderful...and a lot of the women at work have said they use their cold cellars for storage (canned goods, non-perishables etc). Again, adds to the resale value.
Gas Fireplace. In the living room this time. Now even the builder suggested not bothering with this upgrade, simply because it restricts furniture arrangement, takes up a wall, blah blah blah. I've always wanted a fireplace, although in my fantasies it had been an open fire and a bear skin rug, not a gas fireplace with glass enclosure. So perhaps the builder dude has a point. He suggests if I absolutely HAVE to have a fireplace then I should try one of those new electric plug in mantles that are available. Realistic looking, ornamental and totally PORTABLE. He may have a point.
Door from garage to house. This option is totally dependent on the grade of the property. But still an option.
Central Vac. Not something I have ever really thought about to be honest, and I haven't a clue how much they are charging for it yet. I have never had central vac. The idea of not lugging my vacuum cleaner upstairs however is very tempting. Any Central Vac users out there able to share the pros and cons? Anyone? Please?
Phone/TV Wiring. This one is a no brainer for me...and I am assuming I can get it upgraded, but I noticed in the "standard fixtures" list from the builder, that they rough-in telephone in the kitchen and master bedroom only, and in the living room and master bedroom only for cable TV. Both of these items I would like available in other rooms. In addition they only offer 1 exterior weather-proof electrical outlet. So I either don't have an outlet at the front or the back of the property. I'd like both.
OK, hopefully I haven't left anything out, I will update this later if I suddenly remember anything. I do however think I have to make some major decisions this coming Tuesday when I sign the agreement and hand over my deposit.
Feedback people...lemme know what you think!
OK you think I am bad now? Wait until we get onto choosing cabinets, countertops, tiles and carpetting. OMG - this is going to be the home version of "Bridezilla".
August 2, 2006
Home Sweet...Lot #96?
I got some news today that essentially will dictate the direction my life (and by extention thereof, this blog )will go over the next year or so.
I am buying a house!
There is a townhouse development being built in a nearby town, that I went out to visit with the boy last week. My mortgage application went in on Friday and the approval came through today. Needless to say I am terrified, excited, nervous, thrilled and nauseated all at the same time.
Any advice you of can offer about purchasing a house, especially a new house. Extra items worth paying for ...or items worth leaving til later ...things to ask for ...or to watch out for etc would be greatly appreciated. Don't forget this is my FIRST ever home, so this is all new to me. I am calling it my 40th birthday present to myself.
My closing date wont be until November 2007 into early 2008. So needless to say I will be working ALL kinds of overtime etc to help with costs, expenses, appliances etc.
It's a small house, but a little bigger than what we have right now. Not my "dream home" but perfect for starting out.
If you are interested in seeing the plans check out this link.
I meet with the builders next week to complete the offer and pay my deposit. I will be taking a list of questions, requests etc. with me. So take the time to leave a comment with advice, suggestions etc.
The next few months will be full of the dilemma of carpet colour decisions, countertop and kitchen cabinet choices and tile to pick out. And hopefully lots of photos.
Consider yourselves forwarned!
I am buying a house!
There is a townhouse development being built in a nearby town, that I went out to visit with the boy last week. My mortgage application went in on Friday and the approval came through today. Needless to say I am terrified, excited, nervous, thrilled and nauseated all at the same time.
Any advice you of can offer about purchasing a house, especially a new house. Extra items worth paying for ...or items worth leaving til later ...things to ask for ...or to watch out for etc would be greatly appreciated. Don't forget this is my FIRST ever home, so this is all new to me. I am calling it my 40th birthday present to myself.
My closing date wont be until November 2007 into early 2008. So needless to say I will be working ALL kinds of overtime etc to help with costs, expenses, appliances etc.
It's a small house, but a little bigger than what we have right now. Not my "dream home" but perfect for starting out.
If you are interested in seeing the plans check out this link.
I meet with the builders next week to complete the offer and pay my deposit. I will be taking a list of questions, requests etc. with me. So take the time to leave a comment with advice, suggestions etc.
The next few months will be full of the dilemma of carpet colour decisions, countertop and kitchen cabinet choices and tile to pick out. And hopefully lots of photos.
Consider yourselves forwarned!
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