Anisha Roussel wanted to get to know Philadelphia before she bought a house there, so she's been renting a small apartment across the river in South Jersey. The time is right for her to buy a home of her own, and she wants to find one in the friendly community where she is currently renting. She would like at least two bathrooms, a large kitchen and an extra bedroom. She is tired of the white walls in her apartment and is looking forward to decorating her own home. She has also set her sights on a townhouse that would require little outdoor maintenance.
She turns to real estate agent Kathy McDonald for help. They first tour a two-bedroom, one-bath duplex. The living room is airy and open and has natural woodwork. The dining room is connected to the kitchen, and the size seems to suit her, but the galley design of the kitchen is not for her. There is too much space in the backyard, especially for someone who does not want any yard maintenance. The bedrooms need some work to suit her taste, and there is only one bathroom in the house. She likes the house and the price, but there are some changes she would have to make. She agrees to keep it on her list as she looks at some other options.
Next up is a two-story townhome that has two bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. The kitchen is very large and has room for a kitchen table. The living room is also large, but the blue wall-to-wall carpet is a turnoff. The master bedroom has a lot of room and two bright skylights. There is a full bath off of the master bedroom and another full bath off of the second bedroom, which would be perfect for her guests. This home also has a finished basement, which she likes. The townhouse has a lot of features Roussel is looking for and is definitely a contender.
Next, McDonald decides to surprise Roussel with a three-story townhome right in the heart of the city. The home has high ceilings, hardwood floors and crown moldings. The kitchen and dining room are connected, and updated. There are three bedrooms upstairs. The master bedroom has nice hardwood floors and built in cabinets. The master bathroom is large and has a stand-alone shower. Roussel likes the home, but she's not sure if she wants to live in the city. She has a lot of decisions weighing on her mind--city or suburbs, price or space.
After considering all of the options in front of her, Roussel has made a decision--and an offer. McDonald places her bid and calls her two days later with the great news that she has gotten the home she wanted. Two months later she is nearly finished decorating her new home. She seems quite content with one of the biggest purchases in her life, and she feels that in the end she made the right decision.
