HGTV, you deceive me

Have you ever watched an episode of one of the many home buying shows on HGTV? We've watched plenty, and have enjoyed them, but I can't say I'd go back after experiencing it for ourselves. Sure they're pretty entertaining, but don't be fooled. We've been plugging along in the ole home buying process and what do you know, its NOTHING like HGTV will have you think. No wham bam house is yours, no, its a lengthy, stressful process. I suppose I knew it wasn't going to be all sunshine and roses, nor as easy as they show on TV, but perhaps they should have some kind non-reality disclaimer, ya know, toughen up the home buying skin.

The high of finding a house and having an offer accepted is ultimately trounced by, the low of every minor flaw found in the inspection, and more importantly, concerns regrading appraisal numbers and the potential that, should the appraisal come in lower than the offer, the bank that owns the house will be too greedy to negotiate down and our loan company, seeing the lower appraisal will not provide the funds to cover an offer the bank will accept. It could all go smashingly and by Monday we could officially consider the house ours, but just as easily the deal could go down in a ball of flames! Ok, maybe not that dramatic, but it would ultimately stink.

As much as we have been warned "not to get emotionally involved" I think its too late. This purchase could possibly be our very own home. Its not like a replacement tire for my car, its an investment in our future, how could we not get emotionally involved? For all those out there providing advice and knowledge based on experience, we thank you for your input and hope you're not put off by this post. We're accepting any good karma you can spare towards this all working out as well as possible, so feel free to send your good thoughts in the direction of our house purchase.