I dont have orchids, but I am buying a house for the very FIRST Time

[MsFlorida]

My ex be damned, take that I say. Have all the kids in college too -- with no help from him I might add. Yes, I'm rather pleased, it has been a long, long row to hoe : )

[slackmaster]

1. Wheeeee! I raise a second glass of Two Buck Chuck in your honor

Way to go!!

Owning a home is great. A couple of days ago I ran into my last (and very last, I hope) landlord. It was so nice not having him have any power over me, the kweep.

[Butterflies]

2. Congratulations!

I did the same thing a few years ago, and it was so empowering! Especially since I did it on my own. You get all of the responsibilities (fixing things, lawn mowing, etc.) but the freedom from landlords is worth it. :thumbsup:

[nini]

3. congrats!

That's quite an accomplishment!

enjoy your own piece of the world.

[MsFlorida]

4. Thank you all.

Cant wait to put a Kerry Sign in my front yard and a "Stop Bush" on my stop sign -- which I really wouldnt do its public property.... :)

[GOPisEvil]

5. Congratulations!

I'm thinking about taking the plunge myself, but it's hard to find property I can afford.

[nini]

6. here you go... you like Long Beach- right?

http://homeseekers.com/Scripts/detail.asp?_org_id=oc&_uid=633DC045-42C5-405E-84DB-B9911A64DB2C&_current=1&mls_property_id=S340318


only 495k!! unbelieveable...


700 E Ocean Bl #2301
Long Beach, CA 90802*

$494,900*
2 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
1,080 sq. feet


Model Perfect! Model Perfect! Best Priced Luxury Condo In The Centrally Located Intntl' Tower. Unbelievable Veiws From Your Wrap Around Balcony Of Ocean, Queen Mary & City Lights. Wood/Stone Floors, Crown Moulding, Mini Bar W/Wine Cooler, Stainless Steel Appl, Faux Fireplace. Won't Last -Hurry!

[GOPisEvil]

7. *thud*

*cough* Only $495k?!

OK, I'll stop whining about how expensive stuff is here. I still can't afford a $100,000 house unless I want to give up my social life and having fun. :D

[nini]

8. what makes me sick is that I almost bought into that bldg..

about 2 years ago but changed my mind. I would have about 250k in equity if I did. :cry: :cry: :cry:


I didn't get that one because I didn't want to give up my extra cruising money :eyes: Hell, I could cash out and cruise the rest of my life with that equity..

OY

[GOPisEvil]

9. Well, if I want to go condo, I can get one for less than $100k.

Some actually in decent neighborhoods. But then with condo fees...yikes, it's hard to make that dive! :scared:

[nini]

10. BUT, you'll save in taxes.

I waited too long to take the plunge for all the reasons you're thinking.

After the first year of mortgage interest etc.. it'll help on the taxes etc.. Your rent will never go up etc..

You can even can sell your body in those chonies to help with the down payment. :evilgrin:

[GOPisEvil]

12. LOL!!!

Spare change only goes so far! :D

I have to think quick...my lease is up at the end of May.

[nini]

13. how about a duplex so you have a tenant paying most of the mortgage?

you know.. stick it to the renter - the great American way.

[GOPisEvil]

15. LOL - I've thought about that.

I'd be careful about who I rented to though. It would piss me off if someone ruined MY HOUSE! I'd have to kick some ass.

[nini]

16. just don't buy near a refinery

http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/nm/20040325/us_nm/security_energy_dc



what next?

[GOPisEvil]

17. No problem.

Although...I would like to live close to some gov't buildings and the U of TX. :scared:

No refineries around here. *whew*

[nini]

18. I'll go in halfsies on this one with ya! (I wished!!!)

I can't even imagine being able to afford that.





Property Details
Austin, TX 73301

$5,500,000
Beds3Baths5


Single Family Home
Built in 1995

Property Features:

Villa Serena is a private gated estate on 5.1 acres overlooking beautiful Lake Travis, located only 20 minutes from downtown Austin. The home was designed with Old World elegance and boasts dramatic views from every room. Villa Serena consists of three spacious master suites (each with a private balcony), five full baths, four half baths, six fireplaces, a gourmet kitchen, butlers pantry, formal dining room, a multi-level office, media/billiards room, leather-wrapped bar, a guest apartment with a private patio, two generous porticos for entertaining, and separate quarters for the caretaker. The home was built in 1995 and remodeled in 2001. The main room is 24-feet tall and more than 50-feet long, including the turret entrance that showcases two custom-designed aquariums (fresh and saltwater). Floors in the main house are comprised of antique heart pine reclaimed from the old Sears building in Chicago. There are numerous antique architectural details incorporated throughout the home,


Fireplace(s) - 6
Waterfront
Luxury

[scarlet_owl]

11. Congratulations!

I just got a brand new house too. It's the best feeling in the world knowing that it's your space. Enjoy your new house!

[indigo32]

14. Congrats

that is great!

[myomy]

19. Wise investment, Congrats

.