It's important to share the lessons you learn through life with others, so in a spirit of altruism, here is the newest acquired adage. Internalize it so you never find yourself making the same mistake:
"Never buy a house from a professor of European history, because he will be in Holland when you want to close."
So true. When we made an offer on our South Bend house, we knew to try for an earlier closing date than we needed, so if delays arose, we could be flexible. Eric was planning on driving out there with his car and catching Amtrak or Greyhound back home. This allowed him to see our chosen route and all of the delightful construction delays that awaited us before he was driving a massive truck, as well as allowing us the luxury of not having to hitch a car behind an already long truck.
Our realtor relayed to us that we could close yesterday. I was going to remain behind, as we had guests, but we were going to have a notary prepare a limited power of attorney for Eric, so he could have the delight of signing for me. Eric took the time off work, made hotel and bus reservations, and alerted the water company so they could hook up service while someone was there, as they won't do otherwise.
Wednesday evening, however, we hear that it's off, due to a problem transferring documents on the seller's end. Next, it will be delayed to Monday. Eric alerts his boss, and calls up the hotel, Greyhound, and the water company.
But then, we learn our seller is having trouble getting documents notarized while in Holland, so yet again, we're delayed, now to next Friday. Enter Eric on the phone to the previously mentioned entities, who are getting quite accustomed to our accounts.
So, let me reiterate the proverb that Eric so aptly coined: "Never buy a house from a professor of European history, because he will be in Holland when you want to close."
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