Jupiterimages
Two weeks into their search, our Buyer Diaries bloggers have learned a few things about what they don't want in a home.
In Winnipeg, Corey and Angela were discouraged by a water-damaged garage and some sloppy do-it-yourself renovations, including crown molding that just didn't look right.
"There were gaps between the moulding and the ceiling all the way around the room," Angela wrote. "Is this the sign of a problem or of poor workmanship?"
One house had a kitchen with retro charm that appealed to her, until a reader pointed out the dirt that would get trapped in the tiled countertop.
In Vancouver, Kristin took some time out to rethink her house hunt. She listened to Rob Carrick's Google+ hangout, in which he suggested buyers wait to see whether Vancouver's high prices would drop. "One or two other commenters have also suggested now isn't a good time to buy, and we are certainly paying attention," she wrote.
During a weekend visit to see family in Nanaimo, Kristin decided to check out some houses in the area. "Though none of these homes are actual contenders in our search, they demonstrate the range of possibilities available."
In Toronto, Carl addressed readers' suggestions that he broaden his search out of the downtown core and into the suburbs. He defended his decision to stay downtown, saying he didn't want to have to buy a second car or add to his wife's commute.
"My wife would like to see more of our daughter, not less. A daily commute is going to make a big hit on family time. So, while the burbs will work for many people, they aren't on our radar," he wrote.
We hope you're enjoying our Buyer Diaries feature and will continue to follow along with our bloggers. Please keep your comments coming.
For tips, stories, videos and live chats about what's going on in the real estate market, check out the Globe's Home Buying section for daily updates.