Husband is out to lunch and then we are going house hunting with the realtor. It really is boiling down to “fixer-upper in an established neighborhood like Bountiful or Sugarhouse,” or “newer home in a more cookie-cutter neighborhood like Daybreak.” Despite being against it for years, I do really like the sanctuary feel of Daybreak, and the fact that I can afford a garage. But the commute would be a pain, so we’ll see. I’m open minded to pretty much anything.

But here’s my beef.

Why is it so hard for realtors to post pictures that actually make sense on home listings? Congratulations, you posted 30 pictures, but they are all out of focus. Or you took no actual pictures of the kitchen, master bathroom, or master closet. Save us both some time here.  My favorite is when one feature of the house has been redone, like hardwood floors. So there are 10 pictures of hardwood floors up close. And nothing else.

And be specific. I hate that “charming” really means small. And “Victorian” probably just means old. “Need some Love” is the worst because you know if a realtor is willing to put that in the listing, it’s a dump. I love it when I see “needs new roof.” That gives me clarity. I can know about how much that can cost. When I see “needs attention,” I have no point of reference for really how much love this home is going to need. I’m willing to give a little love and attention, I’m not willing to go full-out remodel. An extra 15 minutes of commute time is worth it to me to not have project.

Let’s talk about how two of the newer home developments we’ve looked at have the master suite at the back of the house, and the kids rooms at the front. Have I read too many news stories? It just seems like instant kidnapping. Or that my 4-year-old will wander out and get hit by a car while I am in the master suite completely unaware the munchkin is awake. I know, child proofing exists, but still. It creeps me out.

End rant. I do love our realtor. She’s a gem. And really patient.

I am becoming very talented at pinning home-related things to Pinterest. I got that part down.

Oh and p.s. the bar exam is over! Huzzah! Victory of the week. And I didn’t even take the test.

Original photo sources: yellow door, bedroom, dining