I have many friends who’ve bought houses because of location, but then spent ungodly amounts of money remodeling and redecorating. In one case, their relentless desire to ‘update’ everything was equal to the original cost of the house.
I bought a house that I already liked the minute I walked in the door. Other than paint, AC and new shingles, I haven’t changed a thing over 35 years. I think it’s important to consider total cost of ownership. Hold out for a house that you like ‘as is’. They’re out there if you can be patient.
I’m a dinosaur who loves cash. I’m not overly paranoid (I don’t believe) but I think every transaction made digitally is sucked into various databases in this day and age and I prefer anonymity as much as possible.
Also, having to pull a number of bills out of my wallet makes me think more about the necessity of each purchase. It’s not deferred into the future. It costs money right then and there, which has given me pause a few times.
However I don’t use the envelope method. I keep those ‘envelopes’ in my head.
For those living near a National park, state park, wildlife refuge or wilderness area, opportunities abound to volunteer for physical work and camaraderie. Not for everyone but there’s plenty of opportunity in this country to get off the retirement couch.
Comments
I have many friends who’ve bought houses because of location, but then spent ungodly amounts of money remodeling and redecorating. In one case, their relentless desire to ‘update’ everything was equal to the original cost of the house. I bought a house that I already liked the minute I walked in the door. Other than paint, AC and new shingles, I haven’t changed a thing over 35 years. I think it’s important to consider total cost of ownership. Hold out for a house that you like ‘as is’. They’re out there if you can be patient.
Post: What should you look for when buying a home?
Link to comment from April 16, 2023
I’m a dinosaur who loves cash. I’m not overly paranoid (I don’t believe) but I think every transaction made digitally is sucked into various databases in this day and age and I prefer anonymity as much as possible. Also, having to pull a number of bills out of my wallet makes me think more about the necessity of each purchase. It’s not deferred into the future. It costs money right then and there, which has given me pause a few times. However I don’t use the envelope method. I keep those ‘envelopes’ in my head.
Post: The Envelope Returns
Link to comment from March 8, 2023
For those living near a National park, state park, wildlife refuge or wilderness area, opportunities abound to volunteer for physical work and camaraderie. Not for everyone but there’s plenty of opportunity in this country to get off the retirement couch.
Post: My Retirement Shock
Link to comment from February 15, 2023
The local SS office in my town is staffed by surprisingly helpful and friendly staff. Calling for an appointment is the easiest way to avoid lines.
Post: D Is for Delay
Link to comment from October 26, 2022