House Hunters‘ Lauren and Alex live in South Philly, but met in Missouri. They were a summer romance that they thought would fizzle out, but even going back to their perspective homes of Philadelphia and New York didn’t stop the summer loving.
Eventually, Alex moved to Philly for Lauren, because it was the cheaper of the two options. Now they’re married with a dog named Ted. The couple have outgrown their current rental, so looking for a home in South Philly.
They have a $200,000 budget.
Wish Lists
Lauren and Alex’s wish lists don’t vary too much. They both want a row home style place with three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. A large kitchen checks off both of Lauren and Alex’s boxes. They want ample closet space and a finished basement.
His: The only big difference is that Alex wants a contemporary home.
Hers: Lauren wants a historical home.
House #1, $194,9000
The construction on this home finished in 1915. This three bedroom, one bathroom home feels welcoming with the natural brick, hardwood flooring, and popcorn ceiling. The lack of counterspace in the kitchen, presents a problem for Lauren and Alex.
The basement fails to deliver the wow factor that Alex wants. However, the place has plenty of historical character and charm. It just needs some renovations.
House #2, $195,000
The next home is new construction model with natural brick, a beautiful kitchen, and a nice large backyard. It’s not entirely open concept but enough to create a spacious feel. The master bedroom has two closets–Lauren’s heaven.
Lauren’s biggest issue with the place is its location: it’s located more in a suburban area and the home shows it.
House #3, $189,900
Their real estate agent sees this place as an ideal compromise place. It has historical charm but been remodeled. It’s a three bedroom and one bath unit but feels a little smaller.
This place is not fully open but the kitchen is big. The back deck needs some work and some of the corners are narrow. However, it has plenty of closet space, an extra bath, and a finished basement.
Decision Time: We personally loved House #2, but Lauren clearly didn’t like it. House #1 had some charm but the anxiety of an older home was written all over Alex’s face. That left them with House #3.
In the end, House #3 was the best fit for their needs.
They only recently moved in after a three week closing period. They got the place for the asking price of $189,900. They’re doing some remodeling and turned the third bedroom into Lauren’s closet space.
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