introduction continued

Although the home was vacant at the time of closing, the seller requested 30 additional days to vacate the home (he stored antiques in it) and 60 days to vacate the barn. We did, however, get immediate access to the land and we took full advantage.

Since the property was vacant for so long, it was completely overtaken with shrubs, weeds, etc. Our first goal was to remove all of the shrubs around the house so it could breath again. It was amazing how much difference there was just doing this. We also discovered there was a window we did not know was there. On the inside, it was behind the shower wall in the cramped first floor bath.

On the other side of the property we trimmed back many trees and overgrowth. We mulched every bit of it and used it to cover areas near trees and to cover some of the mud that was developing from the trucks driving on the lawn. It was backbreaking work and I can't tell you how thankful I am that we had family to help.

We got the keys a couple days earlier than expected and didn't wait a second to get in and start ripping out. First order of business, get a dumpster for all of his crap he left behind. Oh yeah, I failed to mention that he actually said he would only take the valuables and we were responsible for the rest. What a mess it was too.