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After I started killing the crab grass, weeds, and other “green” stuff in the front yard, it started looking pretty bad. Kind of like this.

But if you look really, really close, all of the weed killing, the aerating, the seed planting and watering have paid off…we have grass! It’s just a few, but it’s coming.

You might have to click to zoom in so you can see it...

There comes a time in the homebuying process where you stop wanting to talk publicly (ie blogging) about the process so that the other side doesn’t stumble upon your comments. Truth be told, the homebuying process was not ideal nor pleasant.

But, as of June 26 (two days after our scheduled close date, mind you), we are officially homeowners. We’re settled, the boxes are unpacked, the pictures are hung, one project (pocket doors) left to be completed, and guests have already used our spare bedroom. It’s great to be home.

Warren had called and texted his realtor counterpart at the third house, but never received a response. He tried again, and after a few minutes the realtor called back: he had spoken with the homeowner and we were cleared for a visit.

We pulled into the driveway, and headed for the front door. Warren pulled out the fascinating gadget that lets realtors into any house they want, and then knocked on the door as he put the key in the lock. Just as he opened the door, the homeowner walked to the door. Weird.

Apparently realtor friend had informed the wrong homeowner. Or he just said he had told the homeowner. We gave her ten minutes and she took Skipper for a walk (her dog. Name changed to protect the innocent).

Right inside the front door was a very large fish tank. The house was warm, musty and messy. Not a good start for Kim!

We traipsed through the downstairs, and I peeked in the garage. I thought it was strange that a light was on, and then I noticed it was an animal cage. I took the few steps down into the garage and rounded the corner of the cage to see its inhabitants: two iguanas. Honestly, I was expecting frogs or turtles.

We finished the rest of the house, looking through room after room piled high with stuff. Rule #1 when you’re selling a house: clean it up! And take your pet iguanas to the iguana sitter.

We finished off the day with one more visit. As we pulled away, Warren told us that many people will see 20 houses before they find one they like. We have to see 16 more?

Day one, complete. It’s serious now, though. No more funny business: we’re here to buy a house, not run into the West End crazies. Be back soon…