I took the photos above when my Mom took me on a homes tour a few years ago and I wrote all about what an awesome real estate agent she is. What I didn’t know at the time was that she would later become our agent! My Mom has been our sounding board and source of wisdom throughout this whole process of buying our first home. She drove hours each time I wanted her to see a house we liked and shared all of her insight with us. Buying a house is stressful, but my Mom’s knowledge and attention to details saved us from what could have been a REALLY stressful experience.
Two of the big lessons we took away were: watch out for agents that want you to sign papers upfront. Second, you want an agent who is thorough and will pay attention to the details. For example, it was a priority for us to find a home without an HOA or covenants so that we could have the freedom to do what we want with our land (we’re getting chickens next week!). We found that in our house but she also thought to call the county and city to make sure there weren’t any hidden local restrictions. She also thoroughly looked over every home we were ever interested in and found issues that would have been a big financial burden down the road. She took care of details that we never even thought of and we’re so grateful for her help! I appreciate personal recommendations, so if you’re in North Carolina, there isn’t anyone I’d recommend more than my Mama!
I also mentioned yesterday that we have big plans for our house. I’ll take before, during and after photos for each of the projects and share them here! We’re hoping to renovate pretty much every room, doing most of the work ourselves to cut costs.
We have an unfinished attic room that we’re going to build a bed nook into (of course by “we” I mean Cam!!) and wrap the open beams. It’s just a cold, dark space down to the studs right now, but we can envision how beautiful it will be!
We’re hoping to start putting down wide plank wood floors this upcoming week… This is the look and stain we’re going for. We’ll keep you posted! (:
(Unfortunately I couldn’t find credit for these photos off pinterest)
Heather says
Such, such, *such* a huge blessing to have your mum as your realtor. We were fortunate enough during our hunt several years ago to find one who was relatively meticulous (and patient). It really does make the process that much less stressful, enjoyable-ish even (ha), to know someone is looking out for your best interests. Given your track record of stellar home decorating + DIYs, I can’t wait to see what you do with the place, and am so very envious of the feathery friends soon to join your brood! Happy planning!
Amanda says
She really was such a blessing. I didn’t have to worry once about her looking out for herself – she was trying to do what was best for us and in all sincerity, she does that for all of her clients. We were surprised to find how many agents are NOT like that. You will need to come over!! We really do need to get together soon, especially that we’re practically neighbors now!
Heather says
We absolutely do! Quite looking forward to finally, properly, making your acquaintance. Happy Christmas to you and yours, Amanda 🙂
Amanda says
The merriest Christmas to you and yours, too!! Please let me know when you’re free after the holidays so we can plan a time!
Jenn says
I’m so excited to see your before and afters! I’ve always wanted to buy a house and do work on it myself, but neither of us are very handy, haha! That is so awesome that you had your mom to help you find the perfect home 🙂
Amanda says
Me too! We already got started this past weekend – woohoo! I need to upload the photos then I’ll post… starting our third project tonight. We can sleep later, right?! Haha. Merry Christmas, Jenn!
Lanna says
I love the attic nook! Feel free to make that the guest room so I can sleep there!! 🙂 So excited for your very own house — I know you all have been patiently waiting all these years and moves!!!
Can’t wait to see the progression!!!
xoxoxoxoxo,
Lanneybear
Amanda says
That’s exactly what we’re doing!!! It’s going to be beautiful! At least it is in my head right now;) Cannot wait until you come. Love you!!
Elena says
Wow! Congratulations!! I’m so excited to see your before/after photos.
Amanda says
Thanks, Elena!! Coming soon:)