Vintage Cottage Dream

1071 West Live Oak Street, Miami, AZ

Something about this little cottage makes my heart go pitter-patter!

So here's a little background. Back in October 2012, I had a wild hair up my rear and I felt the yearning for the "next step" in life. Naturally, I evaluated the financials and thought- let's look at houses! Don't want to rent forever, right? I would love to have my home paid off in my 40s so I can enjoy my future retirement.

Therefore, I started working on my credit score and the search was on! I looked at a lot of listings in Queen Creek, San Tan Valley (where we rented at the time) and Martin's home town of Miami, AZ. Outskirts and suburban towns always appealed to me- not only for the price, but for the peacefulness of a smaller environment. I always imagined it being a place for the future- A simple place to settle down with kids and a family.

What can I say, I've always been a small town kind of girl.

I narrowed down the search and this cottage was one of the few we chose to view.

After viewing the bombers we looked at, this little fixer upper seemed like the perfect starter home for us.

The home has 2 bedrooms, both just about the same size with good sized windows and limited closet space. The bathroom had this retro looking yellow tile with a old fashioned tub and simple sink. The kitchen is roomy with a decent amount of cabinet space. A dishwasher and gas stove is always a plus. The eat-in dining room located off of the kitchen is a perfect amount of space for a 4 seater table and is delightfully brightened by a window overlooking the front yard. An addition built on the back of the home was a good feature for entertaining. I could just imagine Martin working in the workshop located in back of the house and enjoying his man cave time back there. The yard is clean, complete with a huge shade tree, built in flower beds and a nice front porch. The home soaks in 1966 vintage richness. It has hardwood floors and aged doors. The outdoor paneling is vinyl. The downside is- it need some TLC. The roof needs to be replaced, electrical needs to be upgraded, cosmetics need upgrading. My dream has always been to buy an older house with charm and make it my own. I believe things have more value if you make them your own.

Very few houses grab my attention like this one did. I hope to buy this house or one something like it after I graduate school. Once I make an RN salary, I'll be able to comfortably afford a simple house payment aside from city rent for the townhouse.

My heart just pours with excitement of the dream plans I have for this home and the potential it has in my future mind.

I know there isn't much that comes to mind when people think of Miami, AZ... but it seems like home. It seems like a family environment with an antique feel. It's the type of town that everyone, knows everyone. Families get their kids involved in school and sports. The town goes to their games and attends church. There is a single movie theatre and a handful on mom-n-pop shops and restaurants. Some of the best Mexican food ever! The weather and scenery is always near perfect since it's in the mountains. Cooler in the Summer and snows in the Winter. Gardens are grown easier too.

<Sigh>

One day...