Next Steps

The next thing of importance is getting the financing squared away. Kerry and I have moved the home equity line we have into our checking account so we will have the downpayment needed this weekend when we finalize the construction contract. We're also expanding the line of equity just in case we need to tap it before the condo sells.

Then we'll put the place on the market (by the end of the month). Kerry and I will be interviewing real estate agents. We've already heard some poor-mouthing about the condo market in the complex where we live. This doesn't jive with what has been happening of late in our building. Last year, there were a dozen lockboxes in the lobby. Today there are 3. That would make on believe that, at least for this building, units are moving.

We'll be in good shape either way. If the place sells early, it probably means we got our price (of course, we'll have to make arrangements for a short term apartment but no big deal). If it takes the 200 days to sell that at least one agent estimates, that means we'll be able to stay put until just before the new house is ready.

Today, I tried to install a new fireplace door frame but it wasn't until I got the old frame off that I realized the dimensions of the opening and figured out that the frame I bought was a bit too large. Oh well, we'll return the unit and get another one. We will probably have to special order it at Menard's though. They say it will take 2-3 weeks to deliver. Hopefully, it'll be 2 weeks so we'll be on target for the April listing.

My mom is coming down from Milwaukee this weekend. She plans to help us with some decorating, wallpapering and other miscellaneous stuff. We also want to show her the model and our lot. She works at Colder's Northshore Furniture in Grafton, Wisconsin so we'll definitely need to see what she has when it comes time to furnish the new place. If you're looking for some new furniture, appliances or mattresses, ask for Barb Wolfgram: 262-376-1574. She's consistently the store's top salesperson utilizing a low (no) pressure sales approach. End commercial plug.