Six weeks ago I had gone for a walk before the heat of the day made it unbearable and happened by the real estate office near the gare. A picture of a studio within my price range (read very, very, small) was in the window.
Hmmm I thought and wandered on, but after lunch I went back. Jean-Charles, the agent showed it to me. The building had been renovated top to bottom with only the best materials. The studio itself, although tiny, was also renovated with only the best materials. I could have started cooking in the kitchen immediately.
I do know the prices in Argelès having helped anglophones look for places. No, I decided, I won't buy it.
The next morning I went back and made an offer, and in the afternoon, the seller and I signed the purchase and sales agreement. Back in Geneva, I transferred the money (raising questions from the Crèdit Agricole was I laundering money, a terrorist or a Mafiosa--the answer was no).
Thus today, I found myself seated with Jean-Charles and another young man in the notaire's office signing my name or initials on page after page after page until my hand hurt, but not too much to accept the three set of keys for the outside door, the inside door and the letter box.
Tomorrow I will sign the contract with Jean-Charles to manage the rental and care of the flat.
When I used to play Monopoly -- which I never really liked because even then money bored me -- I always tried to get the two cheapy properties as a solid base. I guess I am still doing that.
A friend commented when I told her what I'd done, "I know you hate shopping, but when you shop, you really shop!"
I am still surprised that I did this...surprised but content.
This is the living area.
I can't get a good shot of the kitchen but it is beautiful. take my word for it, the cabinets are a beautiful ruby red.
The flat is in the bottom corner and the house is kitty corner to the one owned by friends Pat, Jeff, Tony and Carol.
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1 comment:
Congratulations! How exciting for you. Hope all goes well.
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