Dilemma....

[hlmauera]

There is a 3 bedroom, 2 or 2.5 bath duplex with a fire place, garage and yard coming open in JC for $330 more a month than I'm paying now.   It's probably EXACTLY what I want (I haven't seen it only heard the description).  Unfortunately, that's about $80 more  in rent than I'd intended to spend on my next place. It will also require more electricity and I don't know yet about other utilities.  I'm hoping I could talk the rent down if I'm willing to do yard care.  But it's really pushing the budget to a point that makes me uncomfortable.

But I could escape the barrio and the neighbors from hell (who yet again woke me up three times last night and I finally called and filed a noise complaint).  It would be nice and newly refurbished- less water and mold.  It would have the extra space I need and I could actually have company occasionally.  It's powerful incentive.

There is a small chance I could get a raise in June but it may be an outside chance.  Certainly there is no guarantee.

I'm so torn.  I don't know whether to take the risk and just assume I'll figure it out some how, or play it safe.  I tend to be very cautious but at what point does the benefit outweigh the risk?

Anyone have any advice?

Comments

[gwen-the-potter.livejournal.com]

It can't hurt to go and talk to them and see if they can come down on the rent, especially if you do the yardwork. Plus you can get a better look at the place, and see if it is at nice as you hope.

Does it have washer/dryer hookup? It would save money to be able to do laundry at home rather than a launderette.

[hlmauera.livejournal.com]

I believe it does have hook ups but I don't have machines. I've been doing laundry at my parent's place so there hasn't been any extra expense there.

[the-thread-lady.livejournal.com]

With three bedrooms, would you consider a roomate - especially if there is more than one bath?

[hlmauera.livejournal.com]

For a variety of reasons, no, I don't think a roommate is an option.

[kliomuse.livejournal.com]

The extra utility costs will depend on a lot of things. Yes, there will be some more electricity usage, especially if the heat actually works, but if you have the options to only heat the rooms you need, then it should still be fine. Also, some utility companies will let you go on a yearly plan where they average your yearly usage and then spread it out over the year. This allows you to pay the same amount every month, which can be really helpful. We did that and it made it easier. We paid more in the summer than normal, but less in the winter. It was lovely knowing what the bill would be every month. Water usage shouldn't change too much, as it's still just you, unless you're watering a really big lawn.

And there is a lot to be said about having a newly refurbished, less moldy place with better electrical and (hopefully) better neighbors.