Saturday, January 10, 2009

Snowed-In

My husband, Dutch, and I are snowed in today, and are reflecting upon our housing search in the city of Chicago. We are entering our 20th month of looking for a house that meets the following requirements:
1. Three bedrooms that 9x10 or larger
2. At least one-and-a-half bathrooms, preferably the full bath on the second floor and the half bath on the first floor
3. Has a yard, and a garage or the potential for a garage
4. Under $350,000 and priced below 2006 prices (so that we might see some appreciation within 7 years)
5. Within one-half mile walking distance from the El
6. Located in one of our focus neighborhoods: Avondale, Irving Park, Albany Park, Logan Square, Lincoln Square, North Center
7. Stairs to second floor are not too steep or narrow
8. Not in need of gut rehab
9. Eat-in kitchen
10. Dining room

As I write our list of criteria, I realize we may never find this place. Very depressing, and even in a buyer's market. It is so hard to think of a place where we can live now, and yet not be bankrupted by repairs, and grow into for later.

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