I kept dismissing this one property for three months because of the poor quality photographs and bad decor. But after my trip to the Philippines, where I saw the worst shanty homes and people living on streets my eyes were open to other possibilities. I came back with a more modest standard of living. It is important to also understand how much you can afford and to be realistic about other expenses.

When I came back from overseas, I saw the house that I kept dismissing wasn't so bad. I hadn't even been to the house yet so I thought I'd give the agent a call to get the street address. This is a good way to avoid wasting agents' time. People should ask for at least a street name because they can look it up in a map or drive past the home before viewing inside.

If people hate the location, it is unlikely that the inside of the house will convince them to go further with a purchase that's my opinion anyway. Generally a sales

representative will disclose this information.

I ventured out by myself. This was the first time I have ever done this. I found that I constantly confused myself with other people's opinions. I drove to the home and the first thing I thought was, ``This is it.''

It was on a nice street surrounded by quality homes, there were no trees on the property and the land size fit the bill.

I invited my family clan to come along to view the inside of the house. My decision was already made though. It was a cosy three-bedroom house with a large kitchen and a tidy yard.

After making my second offer, the vendors agreed. I had no idea what I was in for next - and that is where the drama begins.