I moved into my home, the first house I'd ever bought after renting the rest of my adult life, almost 22 years ago. I thought we would be here five years or so then move up. Obviously that never happened.
Blue collar neighborhood, 70 year old homes now, neighbors tend to be working or retired. There are some I wouldn't mind seeing the last of, but most are fairly nice.
After three years we refinanced to a fifteen year loan because the rates dropped significantly. I never got around to refinancing again, even though the rates dropped significantly again because my credit at the time was lousy and we would have had to do one of those sub-prime loans with adjustable rates. it wouldn't have saved any money in the long run and would probably have cost more.
I changed jobs several times, though the last location change was about 12 years ago. I have a <4 mile commute each way, I've walked it on occasion when the weather has been wonderful. Not often as it is about an hour and I'm exhausted when I do make it home. When I lose another 20 pounds or so I'm going to try it again.
I paid off the loan almost 4 years ago. Best raise I've ever gotten.
If you are happy in your home, are okay with the neighborhood, and can afford the payments, a long commute can be a temporary thing. With all the expense of moving and the volatility of the job market, moving can be a very costly mistake and you could still end up with a long commute in a year or two.
For me, with the real estate market still being in flux, and the current convenience thing for my life, and the fact that I could retire and still afford to live here, I'm set. Now if I could just find a sweetie.
You made a wise decision Serienya, congratulations.
_________________ The U. S. Constitution doesn't guarantee happiness, only the pursuit of it. You have to catch up with it yourself. B. Franklin
"A mind needs books like a sword needs a whetstone." -- Tyrion Lannister, A Game of Thrones
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