The Transition: From Renter to Home Owner

I purchased my starter home when I was 26. I had been renting in Chicago for 5 years and got tired of looking at the white walls that my landlord refused to let me paint or put holes in. I longed for a space that was all my own. I wanted color, fabrics, custom built cabinetry, but most of all I wanted a place that I could call home.

Ideally I wanted a 2 bedroom place, fixer upper (but still livable), in an up and coming area, at a good price (who doesn't). Unfortunately it wasn't that simple for a couple reasons which I am sure many of us know. Having two bedrooms for a roommate or guest, was a luxury I couldn't afford. Sorry guys, pull out couch it is!

I think our generation has gotten used to the term "fixer upper" and "sweat equity" from our parents generation. It is a great way to increase your investment overtime, unfortunately, there are a lot of people who know this, so the "fixer uppers" are really hard to find. They rarely even get to the MLS listings! What's even worse is that you will find places that have already been "fixed up" with cheap materials, which essentially makes the property useless for both parties!

Where are those "up and coming" areas anyway? When I visited one of these so called "up and coming" areas, I wasn't sure what about it was up and coming? I found myself focusing on the bars on the windows and the liquor bottles on the side of the house, instead of the huge kitchen and rays of light pouring in. Great idea in theory, but couldn't stomach it for my everyday reality.

And as far as a good price goes, I could get one, but I would have to drop my search criteria to a studio! I was definitely not a fan of having my new home be one room! I'd been in those places and they are claustrophobic to say the least. Plus even if they are nicely design, they just don't feel right. So what do I do? Continue to pay my landlord to stare at white walls until I eventually go insane or attempt to find a studio that may, just may suit me. It was a tough one, but I went with the adventure of studios!

The space had to be unique, have character, light, close to transportation, not smell like curry and be in a reasonably safe area. After many hopeless visits with my realtor, I wasn't finding anything that I felt represented me. One day my dad, who lately feels like my personal assistant (bless him!), sent me a listing in the Fulton Market District. I was familiar with the area because it was very close to my current rental. At the time it was known as the neighborhood with no name, but in the middle of everything. I decided to check it out.

I am dedicating this blog to my adventures with my Chicago Loft. It was, and still is a completely life changing experience for me. I know it sounds funny to say, but the actual space that surrounds anyone is extremely influential to the person you are and the life you lead.

I have lots of pictures to share of my design discoveries that hopefully will be useful in one way or another. Stay tuned!

Sarah

SarahSeaDesigns