Getting started/Sale of our home

Hey All-

I figured I would start off with how we made our selection.  To start my husband and I were one of the lucky ones when it came to listing our current home.  We listed our house and not even 3 weeks went by and we had several showings and an offer!  Which would seem like an awesome thing except..... WE WERE NOT PREPARED FOR IT TO SELL THAT FAST!

My husband and I literally scrambled everyday trying to find homes we both agreed on to look at.  We had a set price range and amount of space we wanted.  Of course we each have our own views on what the "perfect" home would be.  After about 3 weeks we started to get really discouraged.  We did find a few homes but they either needed a lot of work after we moved in.  Or they were in the short sale process and we really didn't have the time to wait and hope to get the property.  After burning our eyes staring at the MLS listings every day we finally decided to call a Ryan home community that had been listed.

We had actually looked at a Ryan Model earlier in the month but were not set on the location.  After multiple fails we decided to step outside the box to a neighboring city and check out their Ryan home community.  Once we pulled in I was in love.  I just felt like I belonged there and my family would be so content.  After walking into the model.  Which was the Ravenna.  I wanted everything.  Of course it all is an upgrade so there is a price.

Our Ryan Representative was so welcoming and friendly.  She asked us what we were looking for in a home and directed us to the Florence.  This floor plan automatically comes with 3 bdrms and 2.5 baths.  Yet, upstairs there is a loft that you can change into a 4th bedroom at no extra charge!  Score!  Next their monthly special was either a FREE morning room or finished basement.  Of course we wanted the finished basement because of the extra space.  Also, it was their 65th Anniversary so they were offering Granite counter tops for just $65!!!!  What a steal. 

After going over some numbers we left with a good faith estimate and drove around the available properties.  We fell in love with Lot #211.  The main reason is because they are in the process of finishing the community clubhouse that will have a pool, park, fitness center and basketball court.  It is literally located within walking distance from our home.  Perfect for the kids and I to walk to and from.

We waited about three days after deliberation and finalizing things on our current home.  We went back to the community and placed a contingent down payment on the property.  Ryan offers contingent spots so if for some reason the sale falls through on your home.  You are not stuck with two mortgages.  After placing our deposit and finalizing our paperwork with NVR.  We are now basically waiting for the official close of our home.  Which is today!  Once we show the contract of sale we can get things moving.

We are so excited to start this journey.  I know it is going to be a bumpy ride but there is so much to look forward to in the long haul of 120 days!

My next blog I will post some information and personal experiences with the contingent process, upgrade selections, and NVR process.

Have a great day!