You may remember us mentioning the charming “bed & breakfast” house around the corner a few times. We’ve admired that place for years—not just for its in-ground pool, tennis court, and picnic area, but because it has one of the most inviting exteriors on the block. Here’s a photo we took during a snowstorm last year:
When Sherry and I began our house hunt last fall, we even joked about knocking on their door and begging the owner to sell. Before we could work up the nerve, we found out someone else had already bought it privately—no “for sale” sign in sight. It was a surprise and, honestly, a little frustrating.
So when the new owners stopped by our moving sale last month and introduced themselves, it felt a bit bittersweet. Bittersweet mostly because they left with about $100 worth of our patio furniture and rugs, which was great. And sweet because they were genuinely friendly and invited us over for a tour. Sherry had been griping that she needed to see the interior before she could stop wondering what the house looked like inside, so the invitation was perfectly timed.
As often happens, the house didn’t quite match the towering expectations we’d built up—kind of like meeting a favorite celebrity and finding out they’re smaller in person. That actually made us appreciate our own future home even more. Don’t get us wrong: the place has incredible potential. If anything, it revealed itself as a considerably uglier “before” than our new house, which actually reassured us. There was plenty of dated charm—harrowing flowery wallpaper, old blue carpeting, tired light fixtures, and red laminate countertops. The new owners were already stripping wallpaper and painting while we toured, which was reassuring since they’re DIY enthusiasts too. From what they shared about their plans, we expect they’ll do some very impressive work.
In the end, both of us left the visit convinced the house wasn’t right for our family. It had sold before we ever had a chance, and that felt somehow fitting. The layout wasn’t ideal for our needs: it lacked an open floor plan, wasn’t single-level, and wouldn’t be the most practical fit for a growing family. The upkeep—mowing that lawn, maintaining a pool and tennis court—also wouldn’t be easy with a six-month-old in the house. So rather than feeling like we missed out, we felt relieved and even happy for the new owners. They have big plans for that sweet house, and we’re glad it’ll be in the hands of people who seem excited to care for and improve it.
So while we’ll always lovingly call it “the bed and breakfast,” that name suits it better than “the one that got away.” And that’s a good place to leave it.
Pssst—We announced this week’s giveaway winner. Click to see if it’s you.