The Roller Coaster of House Buying

So, an update on the house...

After the inspector told us that the basement drain tile system and sump pump were not adequate and the basement would most likely have water issues in the future (as it likely did in the past), we got a contractor who specializes in it to come for a second opinion.

He said there was definitely evidence of water damage and that the current system was not appropriate. He then gave us a quote for the work (less than $5,000).

After doing my own research, I found that there were 3 sources/openings in the basement that could be reason to believe that radon entering the home would have been an issue. The sump pump getting fixed was the most expensive. The other two we would have remedied ourselves.

We decided to go back to the seller and have him address the main problem and either 1.) pay for it entirely or 2.) assist in paying

They brought in someone for a second (or really third) opinion. That person (roto-rooter) gave a quote for 3 different options that ranged in price from $1,000 to $3,000. The seller wasn't willing to put anything towards the problem as they didn't think it was something that was or ever would be an issue.

So, we are moving on and looking at more homes!

We told them if they want to contact us in the future after they feel out the market more, we will be open to talking if we don't have offers or contracts with anyone else.

We really love that neighborhood and are checking out 4 more homes in that area tomorrow night.

There are still places in suburbs that are located North of the metro that interest us as well.

Whew - it's definitely a roller coaster of emotions. And hopefully we won't have to get this far with any other homes as the inspection is almost $400. We can't afford to lose that amount of money on too many other homes that don't pan out!! Ugh!!

But, obviously the safety of our young kids as well as any other children that come into this home are number one. We can't even consider a house that doesn't have necessary updates to make it safe!

We know we'll find something great. It just won't be as smooth and fast as we would have hoped.