I’ve been keeping you guessing!
Today is the day that we are homeowners again!
So for the past week or so, I have been teasing on Facebook about our new home! I’ve posted pictures that everybody thought were pictures of our new house, but those were just pictures of the garage! I’ve been saving the full selection of pictures until today. Today we are closing on the house purchase!
At the time that I posted that we were buying a house, and starting our search, we had actually already chosen a place, applied for the mortgage, had it inspected, had the appraisal done, and everything else that is part of buying a house. The only thing we were waiting for is final approval on the mortgage and the closing.
Just a few days after I posted the article the mortgage was all buttoned up, and today is the day that we sign the papers and take possession of the house. Over the next few days, we will be moving in.
The house
The house is actually only about 2 blocks from where we have been renting here in Logansport. About a month ago, Feyma and I had found a house online and it looked perfect based on the pictures and description on the internet. When we went and looked, though, it was not right for us. The rooms were just too small, and a few other minor problems made it a no-go.
Feyma, in particular, was really bumped out when that house didn’t work out, but the very same day I searched more on the internet and found the house that we ended up buying! When we went and looked at the house it was nearly perfect for our needs and desires. There are a few things that we will update, but nothing urgent.
Wanna see the house?
Take a look at the photos in the gallery below, you can click on the pictures to enlarge them and see a slideshow of all of the images.
Things that we LOVE about the house
It’s Unique
The house if very unique and has a lot of character. It was built in 1910 and has a lot of history. It’s certainly not a “cookie-cutter” house like you see in many instances today. In fact, I’ve never seen a house just like this one.
The landscaping
Landscaping has always been a weak point for me. I’m just no good at landscaping. This house already has mature landscaping. I can maintain it, but creating it would be a tough thing for me to do. I just don’t have those skills.
The River!
Yep, the river. The house is located on the Eel River in Logansport and has significant river frontage. Most people who follow me on Facebook already know that there is a river adjacent to the house because I’ve been teasing that fact. Some have cautioned me that flooding would be a problem. That is just not likely, though. The area has never flooded, and the house sits around 20 feet above the level of the river. We are really not concerned about flood potential.
The river, in fact, is one of the main things that drew us to the house. It is kind of a lifestyle thing. I am looking forward to doing some fishing there, and just other enjoyment based on the river. We will build a patio adjacent to the river including a fire pit. Just a nice place to hang out!
Feels like it’s in the country
The house is right in the city, but you would swear you are far out in the country! It is the last house on a dead-end street, and from the house, looking out to the river, you see nothing but land and water. It is quiet and calm out there, and we love it. The neighbors have told us that nearly every day there are deer that hang out in our yard! There is just so much to like.
Plans for the Garage
The garage is detached from the house and is a 2 story building. We have plans to convert the garage to a second house that will be a rental. At this point were are still deciding whether we will do an AirBNB or just a full-time rental.
My office
I have been working at home for years. Starting in 1987 I worked part-time at home. In 1991 I went full time working at home, and have done so ever since. So, when we choose a home to buy or rent, having a good space for an office is an important factor in the decision.
This could, I believe, be my best-ever home office! The office sits on the side of the home where it has a full view of the river. The office also has a very large window looking directly toward the river. I hope I can still get some work done, and not just spend all of my time watching the deer, looking at the water, etc. 🙂
I’ll be busy!
Over the next few days, I’m going to be pretty busy with moving and getting set up in our new house! I’ll respond to comments here on the blog and on Facebook as best I can, but it won’t be as quickly as normal. But, I am looking forward to hearing what you think of the place!
Wow. Congratulations. Nice house with lots room to move around. And beautiful outside.
We really fell in love with this house when we saw it about a month ago! We are very happy today. Thank you, Jack.
NICE HOUSE BOB. IT WILL BE ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL AT CHRISTMAS WITH THE TREE UP. JUST COZY.
Thanks! Yeah, I know, can’t wait for Christmas! It has been 2 years since we had a Christmas tree! In 2018 we were in the middle of moving back to the USA during Christmas. Then last year we just did not have space in the rental, it was too small! Christmas will be great in 2020.
with all the crap that is going on in the states is refreshing to see and hear about something good! I am truly happy for you and your family.
Thanks, Scott. Yeah, there is a lot going on, but really none of that affects our daily life, thankfully.
Great house and great article Bob. I’m glad you are getting settled in.
Enjoy your home.
Thanks, Jack! Maybe you can make it over this way for a visit one of these days? You’re always welcome.
Congrats Bob on your mansion and estate in the USA. Makes sense where you can get a 3% mortgage in the USA vrs 27% in the Philippines. Hope you avoid the dual panedemit of domestic violence and COVID-19 there. (Here in N.Cotabato they seem to have caught and isolated the few that snuck in with the virus from Davao, and now finally have eased the total lockdown.
Take care over there!
Hi Ed. How are you?
Not sure I’d call the place a mansion, but it is very nice, and I like it a lot.
The violence in many cities in the US has not hit here yet. I did see 2 protesters along the street with signs the other day, but that was peaceful.
I’ve already had COVID and recovered, so I should not be at danger from that one.
Take care.
Wow!! Absolutely beautiful. My kind of house!
Thank you, Heidi. We really fell in love with the place!
Just stunning! Enjoy
Thank you, Robert.
Thank you, Robert!
Bob, I am in awe. Location location location!
I can’t imagine a better location than this one!
I like it. As you said, it has character. I love the proximity to the river and the fact it’s fairly isolated.
Enjoy.
Thank you, Daniel. Yes, so much character!
We feel the same!
What a lovely place. So close to the natural environment. You have lots of trees and greens. The river is indeed a plus factor. You’ve got jackpot not only for a property but a Home:) I’m excited for you and the whole family!
Yes, for sure, a close connection to nature! It feels so peaceful there!
Bob have just looked at all the picture. I am soooo jealous. The house – the size, character, the wonderful landscape and full grown trees ah!!!! The garage blew me away. It is large and has so much potential and the architect is also so different than the norm. Would almost make me want to move down there and find something similar (just dreaming). Extremely happy for you and Fema. Will be a wonderful home with many years of enjoyment for you and the family.
Hi Della, come down for a visit! You need to visit someplace other than Canada and the Philippines! We’ll do some fishing and get to know each other better!
Congradulation to your wife and you bob.looks like a great house with a garage to do your bussiness.keep up the good work bob and fema
Thank you so much, David.
Amazing choice!!!!
Thank you, Pare! Glad you like it.
You did well! Such a great house in an even greater location. I have always wanted a house next to water. Welcome to home ownership again!
Thank you, Tom. You know, I never had a real desire to live near the water, but when I saw this place, I instantly wanted it! We are very happy and feel blessed by how it all worked out.
I believe you and Feyma picked a real winner with one this one, Bob. I’ve looked at the pictures in detail and I really can’t pick out a single flaw. It’s a very, very nice property. When I first saw the “teaser” garage pictures a while back, my first thought was “what a great eBay garage that would be” … but your idea about renting it out is an even better one … an AirBNB country getaway right on a fishing river … can’t beat that idea with a stick. I wish you all health and happiness and long, long life to enjoy it.
Hi Dave,
Thank you for your kind words. We are so happy that the other deal didn’t work out (the one that you were aware of last year). If that worked out we would have missed out on this wonderful place! We are so excited to get moved in. It was a foreclosure (by the VA) and we bought it at a bargain-basement price, so it is good all around!
What a beautiful home! Congratulations! I am so happy for you both!
Thank you, Leanne. When you and Ed are Stateside we would love to see you!
Beautiful home and area. Good luck
Thank you.
Very nice Bob. Happy for you. Its a beautiful home indeed and not far to walk in order to go fishing either. Enjoy your new home.
I can’t wait to start fishing again. It’s been many years since I’ve wet a line.
Bob, Congrats. Beautiful home and view. I love the homes that were built before the time of the sub Divisions and look alike homes. For me I am still here in Gingoog loving it.. Take care. Luke and Kat
I have come to love these type of homes as well. I really feel so at peace here between the house and the river.
Great job of finding & buying your new home! But then I would not have expected anything less! You’re going to enjoy that place immensely !
Thank you, Dave. Yes oh, I believe that this place will greatly enhance our enjoyment of life. Looking so forward to it.
Looks cool. Enjoy it! Congrats
Thanks, RK. I hope you are doing well.
Congratulations to you and Feyma on your new house. Looks lke it is in a really beautiful setting with the large river property. Now you can get one of those garden tractor riding lawn mowers. I bought one a year ago as at my age I just don’t want to push or walk behind a mower any more on my half acre of property. Looking forward to seeing you out on the river in a boat and showing us your catch ! I am happy that your purchase experience went smoothly. Best of luck moving in and getting settled.
Thank you, Bob! Yes, it is a very beautiful setting! We are already enjoying it and have not even moved in fully! Come for a visit! You are most welcome to visit!
Very nice Bob. It looks like a Craftsman Home. The year your home was built was during an era that craftsman style homes were being built. We just sold our 1910 craftsman home about a year ago. We bought our home similar to how you got yours. Ours was a HUD repo. Beautiful home. We had lived there about 20 years, but we just wanted to get something with a little less maintenance as we look towards retirement. We ended up buying a condo in a little better neighborhood. Having a river at your back door is wild. Enjoy!
Hi Jamie, thanks for sharing all of that info oh, very interesting. Yes, this is a Craftsman home oh, we really like it a lot. I can see what you mean about maintenance, that’s always an issue. We have looked at some condos in the Philippines, but decided we could never downsize to the extent needed to live in a condo.
Hi Bob,
Haven’t talked to you in a long time. Great to see your new house. Looks like a real winner. I envy being able to fish right off the back yard. You and Feyma will have many years of memories there.
Regards,
Tony
Hi Tony, how are you doing? Yeah, it’s been a while since we talked. Are you in the Philippines?
Yeah, we love this house, and we do expect to spend many years here and make many great memories!
Take care!
Hi Bob,
Yes, I am setting up to retire in Bayawan City, Negros Oriental. I was supposed to be in the PH 3-2-2020 to 3-27-2020. I made a side trip to Bayawan City for two days. I found a Rotary Club meeting and decided to extend my stay in Bayawan by a couple of days for the meeting. Then I got locked down for two months in the pension I was staying, Casa Antonio. The staff was super nice, and got my meals for me, so I bought theirs as well. Towards the end of the ECQ the staff found me a girl friend, the Rotary Club found a house ($120/mo), and I bought a surplus van. So, I’m ready not retire here.
I have to return to the US to take care of some loose ends, like a mail forwarder. The big question is when will the Bureau of Immigration allow tourists back into the PH. Some opine September and others say after 1/1/2021.
I have to say that so far I like the food, and the large family of Erica. I find I really don’t want to spend much time with expats. Erica and I have started taking trips around Negros Oriental with her son and as many of her family members (usually kids). I’m doing just what I wanted when I envisioned coming here.
Regards,
Tony
Hi Tony,
From all indications, travel between the Philippines and the USA is very difficult right now. As you eluded to, if you come back, make sure you can go back “home” again!
Glad you are adjusting well, and enjoying your stay!
Beautiful place and surroundings best of luck in your new home
Thank you very much, James! Nice to hear from you.
Hi Bob,
Beautiful House and I believe only come to great people. Why did you leave RP?
I am thinking of moving to Koronadal when border opens but have ability to return to Britain. I am 50, I just not sure about my GF and her shady story of her former life.
All the best you and your lady and many happy years ahead by the River.
Hi John, we’ve been back in the States now for about a year-and-a-half. We move for a number of reasons, but you can read about the main reason at this link:
https://bobintheusa.com/chris-in-the-usa/
Thanks for your kind comment, I’m glad that you like the house.
Hello Bob,
Great looking house, love to see the beautiful river! Looks like a very tranquil place to reflect. Could you comment please. I someone is to retire in Cebu and live there for their retirement, this might take place 20 years from my writing 7/20/20, is renting let say another 20 years in Cebu, more like in a gated community, would be smarter than owning. I have heard your podcast dated 2018 or 2019..Thank you and get well..
I think renting in the PH is smarter than owning. However, for something that will happen in 20 years, there is just no way to know.
When you said “get well” I suspect you meant from COVID, I am already recovered, so no worries. 🙂