Article Surfing Archive

It's like this: You buy a house for a price, and they thrown in buyer's remorse for free.

I'm not sure about you, but just within seconds of buying, say a pair of shoes or an ice cream, I regret the decision and wish I'd spent the money on something wiser (i.e., a book). Of course, I'm just being hard on myself.

But when we think about really big purchases, such as that dream house that cost you sweat and blood, that perfect real estate you've been searching for so long and which you thought was just fiction--when you think about it, then it's perfectly normal to let "buyer's remorse" set in you. After all, you want only the best home for you, and you want to be sure you made the best decision.

Even if you've planned ahead, visited a hundred homes to choose from, and created the most comprehensive pros and cons list, buyer's remorse is sure to come. And it's a healthy reaction. Doubt makes you double-check things, and that's good because there might really be something awry about your new home you overlooked.

1. If the house reveals more repair issues than you're willing to take on;

2. If there are problems with the deed;

3. If the house doesn't appraise at a price at or above the contract;

4. If you're short in finances;

Then your buyer's remorse may be valid. If you can still legally back out of the contract, that's fine. It just means the house wasn't meant for you, and the search starts all over again.

But let's put it this way too. Once you've eliminated all the possible culprits of your remorse, and decided the house is just fine and it's just you--start falling in love with your house again. Remember all the good qualities that made you stand out in the first place. Then, consider all the laughs and milestones you and your family will share there. Sure, the uncertainty of newness is scary, but love and ice cream will get you through.