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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

To think this house is good for my family?

145 replies

Countrysidegirl · 21/01/2019 09:37

We've had a really tough few years as a family. My DH is unwell, we took on a big house project which has been a huge financial and time burden. Yes we have a lovely big house in a great location but it's nearly torn us apart.

My DH was in hospital before Christmas and I had a good think about how I can improve our family life. We have 2 DC who are 5.5y & 3.5y and a dog. Moving closer to DH work to reduce his commute from 1.5hrs each way to 20 mins, get a house that needs no updating/DIY, reduce our mortgage/outgoings burden, give us some life back like family trips/holidays etc which we haven't been able to afford.

We've seen this house a few times now.

www.rightmove.co.uk/s6p/53157450

It ticks all those boxes. I love it but DH is resisting. He thinks it's too small inside and outside. What do you think? Catch is the garden which is only at the front and terraced. It backs on to Minchinhampton Common though so no shortage of outdoor space!

It has good schools and amenities nearby. We've seen other houses nearby but they haven't been much bigger inside and need a lot of work!

OP posts:
JemimaPyjamas · 21/01/2019 13:00

I think it's lovely but would want a larger kitchen. I think the more you pay the less compromise you are prepared to make! If you are all reasonably tidy and don't have much clutter I don't think it's too small, you just need to be careful about storage. I hated the new build houses linked to, I'd choose character and history over them any day.

SaturdayNext · 21/01/2019 13:25

Doesn't the lack of rear windows make it rather dark? And is that the reason for the dearth of photographs?

Bearbehind · 21/01/2019 13:31

We need to be 5 minutes from Nailsworth for my work so this rules out lots of other cheaper areas.

Now I’m confused - your job needs you to be 5 minutes from Nailsworth which sounds like you are already only 5 minutes away - yet moving here (which is also 5 minutes from Nailsworth) would cut your husbands commute from 1.5 hours each way.

steppemum · 21/01/2019 14:09

I think the garden woudl be fine if you could fence it.

But does that mean there are only windows at the front, none on the side? That will make the house dark, and the only sun when it is in front of the house.
Which direction does it face? If east, it will be dark from mid morning, if north, no direct light etc

higgyhog · 21/01/2019 14:13

I thought this couple were divorcing?

Original poster
Countrysidegirl · 21/01/2019 14:45

Bear were not the vendor! We live in Somerset at moment and need to relocate to Glos. I've found a job in Nailsworth but need to be 5 mins from there as it relys on me being on call. DH already works in Glos hence the current 1.5hr commute. Nailsworth area would be 20 mins away.

All the windows are at the front and it's West facing. It doesn't feel dark at all. I think partly because it's not overlooked and has far reaching views.

OP posts:
OnwardsAndUpwards10 · 21/01/2019 14:56

It looks lovely! The area is pricey so you will get less for your money. But if that takes some of the stress away of commuting, than it's something that may be worth the compromise.

StreetwiseHercules · 21/01/2019 15:02

It is very nice but your DH is right on this one. 121 sqm is really a bit on the small side for that price for a family of 4 plus a dog. Possibly why it’s been on the market so long.

StreetwiseHercules · 21/01/2019 15:02

When I say right, that’s going to far. What I meant to say was that he makes a fair point.

It’s about the whole package and circumstance I guess.

Bearbehind · 21/01/2019 15:34

That makes sense.

I still think it’s overpriced and, judging by the time it’s been on the market, so do others.

I’m not a fan of houses in that area as they are too ‘higgeldy piggeldy’ having had properties squeezed into gaps on steep slopes over the years and I find the stone cottage type are generally quite cold and dark.

Another point to think about (Ignore me if you have factored this in already) but if you are in a new job your mortgage options may be restricted.

blackteasplease · 21/01/2019 15:36

It looks lovely. And really quite big to me!

NanooCov · 21/01/2019 15:37

Having to go through the "study" to bedroom 3 is not ideal. The bathroom - while immaculate - is not big. The garden is not great for young kids (drop from walls to where the are parked). Not a great deal of space for kids to play/toys (though need to see more photos of the bedrooms). I think it's a lovely house for a couple without kids. Sorry.

jay55 · 21/01/2019 15:43

I'd hate having to go up and downstairs to the loo if I were unwell and had the bedroom at the top of the house.

rytonsister · 21/01/2019 15:46

I think it's gorgeous and probably a deal to be done given it's been in a while . Beautiful area.

imanoldbattleaxe · 21/01/2019 16:03

It was bout for £250k in Aug 2010. Is it really worth the asking price now?

PurplePotato · 21/01/2019 17:12

I've been to view this house too, with a friend who was interested. Lovely area, great primary school within walking distance and a short walk to the common. However, what's the orange cable thing fixed to the front of the house? We asked the agent and she couldn't/didn't provide an answer. I'm just curious/nosey!

Timmytoo · 21/01/2019 17:13

Beautiful, but don't underestimate low ceilings especially if either of you are tall ie: 5.7 upwards. I lived in a cottage with low ceilings and it can make the place feel small and cramped even when it's not. Not to mention banging your hand whilst brushing your hair!!

Timmytoo · 21/01/2019 17:16

There doesn't seem to be much cupboard space. What's wrong with the garden for children?

PurplePotato · 21/01/2019 17:19

Have you looked at the two cottages for sale in Box? Also v easy access to the common, plus Box Woods. They're not as "finished" cosmetically but have better gardens.

ghostyslovesheets · 21/01/2019 17:20

too small - small kitchen - no down stairs loo not bathroom or toilet on the top floor - all would put me off

kids grow - I'd want more downstairs space

PrettyPurpleDress2 · 21/01/2019 17:21

Omg I love it!!!

Lambzig · 21/01/2019 17:27

It’s too small. Not enough downstairs living space.

Original poster
Countrysidegirl · 21/01/2019 17:56

Purple that's interesting. Not sure on the orange wire?! Will have to ask now. Yes we've seen both Box houses. One has no drive. One has a space for 1 car but no garage. Both need lots of work. The bedrooms are also much smaller. One had a great garden but a footpath runs along it which I'm not keen on and you can't see it from kitchen. Other ones garden is actually v small. Sigh....

OP posts:
RedHelenB · 21/01/2019 17:59

I want the window seat!