1.22.2009

The beat goes on

The task of finding a new home continues in Barcelona. Max and I have looked at numerous flats through out the city as we continue to try to negotiate the one apartment, which captured our fancy at the beginning of the week. The owner is insisting on two things: the company's name on the lease and a 24 month guarantee--much more than the law requires. I suppose in the climate of economic downturn, the proprietor is looking security, but I am not sure Max's company will agree to to terms. We shall see.

For this reason, I have settled on a second and third choice. One is a more typical example of a Barcelona apartment with interesting old, architectural details. It's only downside is the kitchen, which looks to be at least 7 years old. Here in Spain, a renter must pay attention to these sorts of things. My understanding is that if something breaks down (including appliances), it is the renter's responsibility to fix it. And, I am not inclined to buy a new oven for the owner if something goes wrong.

So there you have it. We return to Germany on Saturday, with or without a new place to call home. Still, after the week I'm having, I'm looking forward to going back to a home at all.

PS. I'm returning to my top housing choices today for one final look-and-see. I'm bringing my camera with me, so stay tuned for a few pictures tomorrow.

13 comments:

G in Berlin said...

I'm excited to see your options, but sad that you will be many countries away. But glad that it will be an easy one to reach!

Unknown said...

Good luck! I hope it works out for you!

oreneta said...

As far as I know, they landlord has to repair EVERYTHING that is in bad shape when you move in, and for 6 months after.....so get it done FAST....a funny pong in the loo? Get if fixed, one of the blinds doesn't work...get it done...

See what I mean?

Sorry you haven't had a better time here in BCN, but I guess it's been productive anyway.

Sue Jacquette said...

Too bad, dear. Apartment hunting is really no fun, let alone cramming it into a week. Try putting the positive energy out there... repeat after me: I will find a fantastic apartment today. Can't wait to see the pics!

Anonymous said...

Good luck - I hope you can find something you like that doesn't require fingerprints and a king's ransom!

kenju said...

I hope that all of you can come to an agreement. It must be exciting and tiring all at the same time.

Anonymous said...

I'm sure it will work out. I still feel super-lame for not managing a visit to you in Germany, but I'm pretty sure you'll be seeing my smiling face in Spain...eventually.

Paige Jennifer said...

Ah, Barcelona (or as the locals say, Barthelona). Man did I dislike that city. Spent my entire visit wishing I were in Paris. But I think I'm unique in this opinion. And I'm hopeful that your new adventures will change my mind.

Good luck with your search!!!

Simple Answer said...

so, so, so fun!

Unknown said...

Good Luck! Bonne Chance! viel Glueck! καλή τύχη!
buena suerte!

That's all I got :)

Michelle said...

It's always a bit up and down searching for the perfect home. Overall I love it but sometimes I think the task is daunting to get all the right elements together in one place. Regardless, it always seems to work out in the end...Can't wait to see what you end up with!

Connie said...

I think the most dangerous thing about living in and looking at so many homes - with ALL their good and bad points, is that one of these days, we have to retire. You know.. stop moving. Pick one house and decide to stay. Forever.

I am going to be soooo hard to please!

Jill said...

Oh to have the ability to pick out your own house... what I would give!

Good luck!! Can't wait to see where you'll be living!