My Journey to Finding My Dream House: From Online Searches to Custom Builds

Growing up in a small house often led me to dream of a bigger, more spacious living environment. The desire for a home with a substantial backyard and plenty of space fueled my relentless search for my dream house. My journey began online, where I sifted through countless listings, virtual tours, and open houses.

The Search for Dreams

The search for a dream house started when I turned my dreams into a reality. I knew what I wanted: a house that was spacious and bright. I spent hours searching online, visiting open houses, and taking virtual tours to narrow down my options. Eventually, I found the perfect house – a love at first sight experience. It was everything I had ever dreamed of and more, and I knew I had to have it.

Building My Own Dream House

However, not all dreams come in the form of ready-to-move-in houses. Sometimes, the only way to achieve your vision is by building it yourself. I found both of my dream houses by taking matters into my own hands, building from scratch. My first dream home was a Victorian style two-story house in California, built on 2.5 acres. I assisted in the design process, allowing me to turn my dreams into a reality. My second dream home was a one-story farmhouse built on a stunning 36-acre riverfront property in Wyoming. Again, I was involved in the design, ensuring every detail met my expectations.

A Year of Searching

My quest for the perfect house didn’t end without challenges. I spent over a year searching, only to find that the options available either required a large budget, were in the wrong area, or didn’t meet my requirements. Finally, I found the right house at a reasonable price, one that was perfect for me. This house, located in my desired area, consistently brought me joy over the past 10 years, despite some necessary renovations to address deferred maintenance upon purchase.

The Path to Retirement

Each house I built taught me valuable lessons about what I wanted in my dream home. I am now winding down my building journey with my dream retirement house, set to be built next to two beautiful lakes. This final house will feature a master suite on the main floor and key rooms designed for comfort and convenience. The upstairs will include two guest rooms, a full bathroom, and a small loft for additional space. A large laundry/mud room will be conveniently located off a wraparound porch. Additionally, there will be no garage, but I will have a sizable tool shed to keep my tools and equipment organized.

Conclusion

My journey to finding my dream house was filled with both online searches and building from scratch. Whether through online listings or custom builds, each house I’ve lived in has been a testament to my dreams and desires. From the first little house with a big backyard to the custom-built houses that suit every need, the joy of finally living in my dream house is immeasurable. As I prepare for my dream retirement house, I am excited to apply all the lessons learned from my past experiences and create a haven that truly reflects my dreams.