Rainier and Elena have been married for almost a year, and now they’re ready to move out of their small studio space into a bigger place in San Francisco’s East Bay area. This House Hunters’ couple met online. Their first date lasted for over five hours; it was instant love.
Elena moved to the San Francisco area about seven years ago, and Rainier lived here all his life. He thinks the East Bay area would be the best option to get the life that they want while staying within their budget ( $600,000 to $650,000).
Wish Lists
Elena and Rainier want space to entertain and a big kitchen with an open concept. Elena hates carpet, so the couple wants all hardwood flooring. They also want a cozy fireplace, a big yard, and a walk-in closet.
Hers: Elena prefers mid-century modern homes that are turnkey.
His: Rainier wants a contemporary home that has some projects.
House #1, $649,900
This mid-century modern home is located in the Martinez area of East Bay. It has 2100 sq ft, high ceilings, four bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The floors are hardwood and it has a fireplace, but it’s in an awkward part of the house. The place has a big kitchen but it needs a lot of TLC, and new appliances.
The home also includes a small backyard, skylight, and a pool. It also has a lackluster master suite, because both the bathroom and closet are small.
House #2, $581,000
This bungalow style home is located in Oakland, which is about 25 minutes from their jobs. It has three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It also includes a fireplace, lots of windows to bring in natural lighting, and hardwood flooring. The kitchen in this space isn’t open, and some of the appliances need replacing, but overall, Elena and Rainier are pleased with it.
The master suite in this place is much larger. The bedroom area provides plenty of space for Rainier and Elena, and the master bathroom is also spacious. The closet, on the other hand, doesn’t quite measure up.
House #3, $509,000
This mid-century house is located in Pacheco. This place only has about 1200 sq ft. It also has low-ceilings and a fireplace. The place comes with a small yard, but it has two side yards. The kitchen is outdated, and the master has a small closet and small bathroom. It would need a lot of work.
Decision Time: House #3 needs the most work, but it came way under budget, which left Rainier and Elena room for fixer upper projects. House #2 also needs some work, probably even more than the third house, but it came with a lot more room. House #1 is the most move-in ready but it also has the most expensive price tag.
Rainier and Elena pick…House #3.
They put in an offer of $520,000 and got the home. Since moving in, Elena and Rainier started some of their renovation projects, like expanding the closet, updating the kitchen, and making a wider shower.
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