So this is what mid-life crisis feels like? Dec 2011 PTR

[veggiemama]

OH MY GOODNESS... I had to go dig my PTR out of the trenches of the disboards. Thank God I found it!

Okay - going to try to get caught back up on all of my threads - have been keeping tabs on them through my email (quick scan here and there) but wanted to let you know I'm still 'here' and looking a lot like this - - these past couple of days!!

We are still moving forward with sale of home and purchase of new. All is moving along as expected with the exception of DH missing out on all of the fun and negotiating. He's smack in the middle of baseball season and has played daily for the past two weeks - tonight he is home (not yet but will be in about 30 minutes). So I'm going to try to catch him up on what all is going on. He was fine until the word "REPAIR" hit him in the face in regards to the inspections on our home that we are selling and what the buyer would like to see done. And I have to say I absolutely agree if I was the buyer, I would want these things done. What DH needs to understand, or see for himself, is the necessity, that we aren't getting the short end of the stick, and life will be good once we are through this part.

And it will.... he has just missed out on all of the communication - I'm the middle man - and he sorta pulled on the reins when he heard our chimney is going to have to be relined. (hence why I look like this guy) Anyway - we'd reline it even if we were staying - so thankful we haven't exploded our home NOT KNOWING the condition it was in. My realtor keeps asking HOW that was not uncovered when we bought the home 3.5 years ago?!?! Poor inspector, I suppose.

So anyway - had to get on here and update, take a peek at my ticker, and say hello to everyone!!

Thank goodness this is all happening while I'm on break from school, right??

Aaahhh the joys of selling and moving. What a crazy time that is! We thought about moving last year and then our realtor told us what all needed to be done and we figured if we were going to do all the repairs we might as well stay and enjoy them! So we did the repairs, put in a new deck and added an out door hot tub! Best thing we ever did!

Glad you were able to drop in The ticker isn't moving fast enough to Dec for my liking though!!

 

[annmarieda]

Thank you! Everything is moving along very smoothly which is kind of freaking me out!! Isn't it funny how we anticipate the negative from time to time??

Anyway - we are in full 'wait mode.' We have the home inspections on our house tomorrow (the one we are selling) so I really feel like once we are beyond that and all is 'OKAY' then we shouldn't have any surprises... hope I'm not jinxing us by saying that!

But we will close in 5 weeks so it's time to pack and think about having a garage sale! We will actually move out in 4 weeks and 4 days... so it's going to be here before we know it.

At least this gives me something else to focus on for a bit instead of being so Disney obsessed!! Actually - that will never happen!

How are the wedding plans? Have you heard from Zach?

4 weeks!!! Oh my!!! I bet you won't have time to be Disney obsessed for a while.

As for me and wedding plans... they are coming along. We are just getting some final arrangements for flowers...food and music taken care of. I think the wedding is in about 8 weeks...so we have a bit of time, but not a lot!

As for Zach... well, you read my PTR. It has been nice to hear from him a couple times. I am proud of him!

 

[kwitcherkicken99]

Glad to hear things are moving along!

I've never been on the selling end, only the buying end so far. I'm DREADING the selling part, but unless DH is willing to build on, it's going to get tight soon!

Keep us posted on the repairs!!!

 

[Monknmom]

Just finished reading and am subbing in! We are going during that time (Dec. 18th-23rd) too! I was nervous about starting a PTR, but see that many people that are not going until December are doing it! I will have to start one today or something! Hope that everything is coming along well with the house!

 

[shocky5]

Just finished reading and am subbing in! We are going during that time (Dec. 18th-23rd) too! I was nervous about starting a PTR, but see that many people that are not going until December are doing it! I will have to start one today or something! Hope that everything is coming along well with the house!

Happy to have you! I will have to get caught up on your PTR, as well! So fun to share plans with the December crowd!

 

[shocky5]

Okay... so here is where we are with the sale of home! Definitely been an easier experience on the buying side of this whole ordeal!

We topped off at $5,110 after estimates were done for requested repairs. DH and I really did some soul searching and counter-proposed yesterday what we were willing to do. Basically 4 of the 5 requested. The 5th request is not one that keeps them from being 'insured' with homeowners for the purchase... it's a portion of our roof where the shingles are 'wind worn' and it was recommended to replace but structurally, they are fine - no water leakage, etc. Just normal wear and tear.

That being said, buyer was considering doing the entire roof because to replace the portion (over the garage) that was recommended, is basically going to leave the home with two different colors of shingles on the house. How dorky is that?? SO we picked the other 4, will be footing $3,000 of the repairs and offered to allow them to roll the remaining into the mortgage if that was something they needed to do (up the sale price, and the TRR cap to cover what is remaining for them).

So now we are once again in wait mode. I swear this is the worst part of it all... pass along the info, wait for the other party to decide... and so on. But once this is determined, or I should say if they accept our counter-proposal, we are DONE. We can really start to pack, etc. or we can just know 'it wasn't meant to be.'

I did tell DH if it didn't work out, I would probably cry, but not to take it to heart, I would get over it and we will move on to something else.

I do start back to school on Monday! Not necessarily ready with all else that is going on but just going to try to hold it all together! And spend time on here with you all to keep me motivated!!

That's about it for now! DH and I did 'finalize' our trip plans though! Pretty much as they were before but here's a recap:

Dec. 16 - arrive that night at Poly
Dec. 17 - Epcot - Candlelight Processional package at Le Cellier, dinner at Cape May Cafe in between CP and Illuminations
Dec. 18 - OPEN DAY!! Early dinner at 1900 Park Fare and then on to MVMCP that night at MK.
Dec. 19 - DHS - lunch at Sci Fi and Fantasmic dinner package at Hollywood and Vine
Dec. 20 - AK - breakfast at Tusker House and dinner at Boma's that night
Dec. 21 - MK - ALL DAY LONG! We are forgoing CRT. After DH and I talked about it some more, we think our kids won't be upset if we don't go. This means we should be able to make our first ever ROPE DROP. Hoping this can be a relaxed day - we will have been to MK once during MVMCP. We aren't doing and TS meals.
Dec. 22 - OPEN DAY Breakfast at Whispering Canyon mostly to see xmas decorations at WL. Then dinner at O'hana's that night. The day will be open for whatever.
Dec. 23 - the one day of the trip we will all dread when we have to pack up and go home...

That's it for now! Will let you know if our repair proposal gets accepted! Do what you do to send positive vibes this way!!

 

[Monknmom]

Your counter sounds very reasonable, I'll send you good vibes! Your plans sound good! We are planning Tusker house on the 21st, I hope that it's good!

 

[shocky5]

Your counter sounds very reasonable, I'll send you good vibes! Your plans sound good! We are planning Tusker house on the 21st, I hope that it's good!

Thank you for the reassurance! Our realtor thought so, as well, and she's been in the biz for 20+ years. We still haven't heard which makes us 'think' they are trying to figure out how to make this happen with them taking on the entire roof. Still praying my gut is pointing me in the right direction!

We loved Tusker when we were there in 2009 so it's a repeat for us. Loved the atmosphere, the food and the characters! So much so, my stomach is growling now! Darn this diet! But we do promise to leave your family some food for you to indulge in on the 21st!!

 

[shocky5]

Okay - so I am trying to keep 'life' in perspective... I know there are a lot of important things going on right now, particularly the governmental issues and the possibility of some of the adverse affects that will have on citizens of the US... I am blessed - my family is healthy, not facing the possibility of loss of pay even for a limited amount of time, we have a roof over our head... so that being said... I'm thankful.

Where my whine comes in... is with the potential buyer of our home. I don't get it. Our home is almost 30 years old... we remodeled the kitchen and have brand new carpet and tile in the entire home. Everything has been updated and the home is a wonderful floor plan... 2500 square feet - 4 BR, 2 BA and we are not asking the moon to sell it. Which is why I'm a firm believer it went under contract in 6 days. SO keeping in mind the above information, and the counter-proposal mentioned earlier in this post... and here is what 'buyer' tells realtor today.

He's very frustrated that we don't seem to be 'meeting him in the middle in regards to repairs and he's just not sure he wants to proceed.'

A) We took $3k less from asking price.
B) AND are agreeing to pay $3k in requested repairs. (total requested was $5k)

Dilemma - the shingles over the garage only are wind worn - nothing is leaking, no damage - but need to be replaced before too long. The recommendation of the inspector was for over garage only, not the entire home. This is the additional $2k repair request. When doing the estimate, the roofer let us know that the shingles would not match should we decide to replace - the color would be off and he recommended to the buyer to replace entire roof at a time when he would be able to, in the next 5-6 years. Here's the kicker...

HE WANTS US TO PAY FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE ENTIRE ROOF!!!

Are you kidding me? We've invested close to $10k on the remodel and flooring, putting in an additional $3k for repairs just to 'up and leave the home?' It's not a new house, nor was it advertised to be... and he's asking us to put an additional $6800 bringing us close to $20k of our money to a home we have chosen to sell.

Okay - I'm done whining... he hasn't completely made the decision yet. I would still appreciate positive vibes and mostly the strength for me to be 'a big girl' should he back out. I feel very selfish right now wanting it 'my way' because I do feel like we've met him in the middle and then some already.

 

[Monknmom]

Okay - so I am trying to keep 'life' in perspective... I know there are a lot of important things going on right now, particularly the governmental issues and the possibility of some of the adverse affects that will have on citizens of the US... I am blessed - my family is healthy, not facing the possibility of loss of pay even for a limited amount of time, we have a roof over our head... so that being said... I'm thankful.

Where my whine comes in... is with the potential buyer of our home. I don't get it. Our home is almost 30 years old... we remodeled the kitchen and have brand new carpet and tile in the entire home. Everything has been updated and the home is a wonderful floor plan... 2500 square feet - 4 BR, 2 BA and we are not asking the moon to sell it. Which is why I'm a firm believer it went under contract in 6 days. SO keeping in mind the above information, and the counter-proposal mentioned earlier in this post... and here is what 'buyer' tells realtor today.

He's very frustrated that we don't seem to be 'meeting him in the middle in regards to repairs and he's just not sure he wants to proceed.'

A) We took $3k less from asking price.
B) AND are agreeing to pay $3k in requested repairs. (total requested was $5k)

Dilemma - the shingles over the garage only are wind worn - nothing is leaking, no damage - but need to be replaced before too long. The recommendation of the inspector was for over garage only, not the entire home. This is the additional $2k repair request. When doing the estimate, the roofer let us know that the shingles would not match should we decide to replace - the color would be off and he recommended to the buyer to replace entire roof at a time when he would be able to, in the next 5-6 years. Here's the kicker...

HE WANTS US TO PAY FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE ENTIRE ROOF!!!

Are you kidding me? We've invested close to $10k on the remodel and flooring, putting in an additional $3k for repairs just to 'up and leave the home?' It's not a new house, nor was it advertised to be... and he's asking us to put an additional $6800 bringing us close to $20k of our money to a home we have chosen to sell.

Okay - I'm done whining... he hasn't completely made the decision yet. I would still appreciate positive vibes and mostly the strength for me to be 'a big girl' should he back out. I feel very selfish right now wanting it 'my way' because I do feel like we've met him in the middle and then some already.

Don't fret! I think that they are just trying to "scare" or "push" you! We just closed on Dec. 30th and went into contract on August 16th or 13th (can't remember), but our lawyer kept telling us to push things on the owners and if it didn't work out oh well you have to make repairs that you were shown you had to make anyway. The lawyer was very persistent about this (only kept her because she was close to DH boss), but that's what they may be trying to do to you! Stick strong when you go to counter them and you might see them finally agree (but they might make you sit a little before telling you that)! It's all a game to people- sad yes, but it's a game that I DID NOT like playing or even thinking about doing because I am not that type of person! But I know you did not want to hear this, but I figured this might be what they are doing to you! And you are being more than fair! And in this economy he needs to put on his big boy panties and take SOME of the responsibility of becoming a home owner! sending you....!

 

[annmarieda]

Hang in there I am a firm believer in things happen for a reason. Maybe these won't be the people to buy your home... but... maybe there is someone else who really would like it.... I know when we bought our house.. things came together only because another couple had kept in in limbo for a while. (back then homes came on and off the market so quick it was hard to find anything) It was strange and weird... but in the end it worked out for not only us but the seller. The original couple... they kept making demands...and some where met (yeah for us) and when we had no demands, the seller was happy.

 

[shocky5]

And in this economy he needs to put on his big boy panties and take SOME of the responsibility of becoming a home owner! sending you....!

AHHHH!!! I needed this giggle! Actually, I laughed so hard I choked when I read it!

We did hear back from realtor last night - he's still trying to figure out what he wants, we will know for sure by Mon. morning. I really think what I see happening, if he doesn't back out all together, is that we will swap out one repair for our portion of the wind worn shingles. Not a huge deal - I don't think he expects us now to do all of it. This will cost us an additional $400 or so but still keep us under $4k. I can live with that.

So for the weekend, not giving it anymore thought - going to enjoy the warm weather and get ready to start school again on Monday.

And of course, dream about Disney!

 

[shocky5]

Hang in there I am a firm believer in things happen for a reason. Maybe these won't be the people to buy your home... but... maybe there is someone else who really would like it.... I know when we bought our house.. things came together only because another couple had kept in in limbo for a while. (back then homes came on and off the market so quick it was hard to find anything) It was strange and weird... but in the end it worked out for not only us but the seller. The original couple... they kept making demands...and some where met (yeah for us) and when we had no demands, the seller was happy.

Thanks Ann! I so appreciate everyone's encouragement about something that has absolutely nothing to do with Disney! And amidst the struggles you have been enduring lately, as well. I just know December is going to turn into a great month for all of us! A much needed break!

I have resided myself to exactly what you are saying - if they really want the house, it will all work out. If they don't, then there will be someone else on down the line and maybe even be a better process. I'm all for that right now! Our realtor has been great keeping us in the loop and she's honestly not worried about missing out on her commission, but worried for us about not getting the new house. Which I find reassuring. Anyway - see post above for most recent buyer update and I will be sure to let you all know on Monday what we find out!

 

[momabaarjo]

Amy-
I hope you don't mind me following along too! Like you, I am a traditional type of girl that thinks Christmas morning should be at home (okay not to say I would not jump at the chance of being somewhere great, but with kids and grandparents...well it is best to be at home, but no one says we can't leave on Christmas Day after giving the grandparents their time that morning!That is when we are heading out for WDW and it is a SURPRISE for the kids too! (Which are close your children's age) I love knowing that there are more people like me out there...who despite not knowing the park calendar nor in the 180 ADR time period...still have it worked out and just when they think they have it worked out...well they change again!

Sorry about all your headaches and set backs in the wonderful world of house selling!

I loved the idea of mapping out the upcoming months to help pass time! I think I will add that to my PTR!

Congrats on your masters...I am so glad I finished mine before I had children, although in my position I am the constant presenter of staff development which at times is worse than taking grad classes when it comes to family time. I won't wish you happy birthday...40 was pretty hard, but not as bad as 30! In fact now I have to stop and think about (actually calculate) how old I am when people ask!

Can't wait to hear more and follow along in your plan...hoping to get insight into my trip from your planning!

 

[shocky5]

Amy-
I hope you don't mind me following along too! Like you, I am a traditional type of girl that thinks Christmas morning should be at home (okay not to say I would not jump at the chance of being somewhere great, but with kids and grandparents...well it is best to be at home, but no one says we can't leave on Christmas Day after giving the grandparents their time that morning!That is when we are heading out for WDW and it is a SURPRISE for the kids too! (Which are close your children's age) I love knowing that there are more people like me out there...who despite not knowing the park calendar nor in the 180 ADR time period...still have it worked out and just when they think they have it worked out...well they change again!

Sorry about all your headaches and set backs in the wonderful world of house selling!

I loved the idea of mapping out the upcoming months to help pass time! I think I will add that to my PTR!

Congrats on your masters...I am so glad I finished mine before I had children, although in my position I am the constant presenter of staff development which at times is worse than taking grad classes when it comes to family time. I won't wish you happy birthday...40 was pretty hard, but not as bad as 30! In fact now I have to stop and think about (actually calculate) how old I am when people ask!

Can't wait to hear more and follow along in your plan...hoping to get insight into my trip from your planning!

Tammie! Glad to have you along and I can't wait to dig into your PTR! The more the merrier and sincerely it's helping to pass the time without wishing it away!

I am so excited about 'the secret.' Today - we drove into Tulsa, OK which is the major city (and the airport we will depart from) in our area and I timed our drive from our home to the airport and again from the airport to home to make sure I have it down pat. LOL We weren't going to the airport but it was on our way to where we were headed today but each time we passed it, I sure did wish December was a little bit closer!!

Have you decided how you are going to tell your kids??

 

[shocky5]

It's official! After all of the uncertainty we've had the past few days over the proposed repair offer... the buyers have decided they are fine with what we are willing to do and they will be financing the roof into their mortgage. They are wanting a different type of shingle than what we would have put on so it's a 'win win' in my book.

Just wanted to say THANK YOU for your kind and calming words!! Now, I will consider the packing part and begin working on utilities transfers and mail forwarding! Very glad to do it!!

 

[momabaarjo]

Tammie! Glad to have you along and I can't wait to dig into your Today - we drove into Tulsa, OK which is the major city (and the airport we will depart from) in our area
Have you decided how you are going to tell your kids??

Tulsa...you are in my neck of the woods in a somewhat way!

As for revealing, I have planned a scavenger hunt...it is all in PTR...I think page 2.


For the house news....what a relief that must be! And well moving will help fill up some of the wait until Christmas.

 

[Monknmom]

It's official! After all of the uncertainty we've had the past few days over the proposed repair offer... the buyers have decided they are fine with what we are willing to do and they will be financing the roof into their mortgage. They are wanting a different type of shingle than what we would have put on so it's a 'win win' in my book.

Just wanted to say THANK YOU for your kind and calming words!! Now, I will consider the packing part and begin working on utilities transfers and mail forwarding! Very glad to do it!!

Congratulations!!!! See it's all just a waiting game.... a sick and dirty waiting game!!!

 

[veggiemama]

It's official! After all of the uncertainty we've had the past few days over the proposed repair offer... the buyers have decided they are fine with what we are willing to do and they will be financing the roof into their mortgage. They are wanting a different type of shingle than what we would have put on so it's a 'win win' in my book.

Just wanted to say THANK YOU for your kind and calming words!! Now, I will consider the packing part and begin working on utilities transfers and mail forwarding! Very glad to do it!!

so excited for you!! So glad you were able to get things finalized and not have to do the extra repairs.

 

[annmarieda]

It's official! After all of the uncertainty we've had the past few days over the proposed repair offer... the buyers have decided they are fine with what we are willing to do and they will be financing the roof into their mortgage. They are wanting a different type of shingle than what we would have put on so it's a 'win win' in my book.

Just wanted to say THANK YOU for your kind and calming words!! Now, I will consider the packing part and begin working on utilities transfers and mail forwarding! Very glad to do it!!