apartment hunting

We viewed 5 different apartments last night.

The first one gave me bad vibes. The mirrored closet in the bedroom (bad feng shui) had a huge crack in it (really bad), the floors were ick, the closet doors were tin, and while all these things could be improved upon, the deal breaker: bottom floor, there were bars on the windows and the lock on the door was bungled. no way.

The second apartment we saw wasn't even for sale. Irony for you and typical behavior for me-- It's the one I want. The real estate agent (who was really great, helpful, nice and I'm so glad I got him) says that the owner told him to show it and if interest comes up he should let him know, so I exuded interest. It's fourth floor (top floor in a low rise), sunny and has brand new maple laminate floors, brand new kitchen cabinets, dishwasher, washer/dryer, baseboards, It's on a quiet street. The only negative is that it is on the smaller side. 600 to 650 square feet I think. But the layout makes the most of it. It has an enclosed balcony which they like to call a solarium cause it sounds way better. I always thought the idea of a closed balcony was weird, and while it's not a nice outdoor garden with soil and green grass, I could imagine having my bistro set and some potted plants out there, a little oasis. I'm hoping our interest will spark the seller to give us a price. I think I could get this place for the lower end of my budget.

The third place isn't even worth mentioning. It was so dark and while it was spacious, the layout was weird. It also smelled funny and had weird carpets, different colors in every room, the price was way to0 high, and the monthly fee outrageous. no.

The fourth place was beautiful. All the amentities I want, laminate floors, a skylight in the kitchen! It was the newest apartment, in great condition, but the asking price was just above my range and they were taking an offer that night. So I would not be in a position to talk them down. Plus, the layout was weird, everything was angles and not that it would influence my decision, but the wallpaper borders gave me the willies. If it was 10,000 less I would definitely bid.

The last place was not bad. On a busy street, which I don't care for, no insuite laundry or dishwasher and only two sliding glass doors for windows. It lacked a storage locker for our bikes. Though the apartment was in good condition, it just didn't feel right.

I got home and fell into bed. Agent DJ has sent me another listing to look at. That boy has energy. Thank god because I'm spent.