things aren't going as planned | Aja Dang | first time homebuyer

I'm Aja Dang and in this video, I'm sharing my story of how things aren't going as planned and how I'm feeling as a first time homebuyer. I hope you can learn from my experience and be prepared for the bumps in the road during your home buying journey!
As a first time homebuyer, you're definitely going to experience some challenges during your home buying process. In this video, I'm sharing with you some of the things that have been going wrong for me and how I'm dealing with them. (I'm not actually dealing with them, just crying lol) I hope that by sharing my story, you can learn some valuable tips that will help you during your own home buying journey!
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[@catharinab8860]

Girl, do one thing at the time. Only focus on getting the gutters. Let the house look the way it does now for now. Everything doesn’t have to happen right away.

[@AlexandraSpinolo]

I can’t believe it’s even legal to not have gutters in the US! Get gutters!!! It will help with water issues so much!

[@NoelPendergrass]

That’s what I’m saying. You knew it didn’t have gutters when you purchased so that (or any structural issues for that matter) should be the top priority

[@Madison-tf6qf]

Gutters first and then move onto flooring. Gotta fix the problem first

[@MadisonFalcoFoods]

Yeah gutters definitely before floors or it will happen again

[@ST-rj8iu]

Yeah. The gutters seem to be the most important. We had a damaged gutter when I was a kid and it can literally put a hole in the side of your house if you don't get it fixed. Water does serious damage.

[@YourRav]

THIS is what people don’t tell you about home buying. Home buying is so glorified but these are the unexpected costs after buying a house that we often don’t hear of

[@thisuniquechica]

And a lot of sellers never maintained their properties :(

[@AllTheArtsy]

home maintenance and renovation costs are literally all people talk about about havving a home lol

[@biancaterrier3070]

Hey, Aja. My husband says don’t pull up the floors. You can just replace the part that is rotten. Those hardwood floor can be sanded and refinished. They can last forever For the leaking about the door, go to Lowe’s and Home Depot and get some gutters. You can temporarily divert that water until you get the gutters professionally done

[@SarahMukai]

I hope she sees this!

[@taraskinner3847]

Yes! I had the same issue with water seeping into our hardwood floors. Thankfully we were able to fully dry it out with minimal damage, but my plan was to just replace that area if needed.

[@thisuniquechica]

Yes, stop the leak, then repair the damage.

[@loveydovey89]

Yes, those look like nice wood floors that can be restored. Maybe just add a small area of tiling by the doors or patch with new wood if that part is too damaged already! Hardwood is expensive. You can just resurface the floors you already have for a brand new floor look. Get them sanded and re-stained. No need to rip them out!!!

[@Queenb2001]

I can feel your anxiety through the screen. As someone saving for their first home, This is eye opening. Sending postive thoughts to you, rough patches don't last forever. This is just a moment in time that you'll get on the other side of.

[@AjaDang]

start putting aside money for all these little incidents and furniture!

[@elisevanassche]

One step at a time. You can do it!

[@julzgulz1992]

Hey Asia, I just wanted to assure you that a lot of what you are feeling is totally normal after buying a home! Especially because of your story with paying down debts. You just got out from under student debt and now here you are again, with a mortgage. It’s a huge mental weight. And right now your vision of your home isn’t matched up with the reality. There’s always projects and things to fix. Try letting as much of the non critical go as possible. Focus on the good. You’re doing great. ❤ Moving is stressful so allow yourself time to adjust and settle in, and remember it will work out.

[@AjaDang]

💕💕

[@naiapapayatube]

From your school loan journey, wedding budget, and now the home, I find it so comforting to be reminded that I am not alone in being overwhelmed going through the motions of these financial decisions. With a house purchase, my emotions have been a roller coaster of one day I’m excited and proud, to the next day I’m freaking out about can me and my family really handle this. I think a saw a comment on your previous video saying the first 2 years are the worse and I have been trying to believe that an embrace the difficulties will simmer eventually. Celebrating the small wins

[@bhibbs]

Aja, you’re not alone in your feelings!!! My partner and I bought our first home (built in 1939) in a new city last July and the first few months were really tough for me. My anxiety literally kept me up until 3am every night and I felt like I was crying everyday. I started going to a therapist, hoping there was a magic fix to make things better and it didn’t seem to work. There was a point that I made my partner promise that if it kept feeling like this, then we would sell our house at the one year mark and move even if it meant taking a big hit to our finances. It felt terrible feeling so horrible about buying a house, when it feels like it’s this big exciting life moment that everyone celebrates. Slowly, things started to get better and a year in I’m really happy we did it. We haven’t been able to do any of the big projects on the house that we first planned, but small stuff has really made it feel like more of a home. I guess I’m writing to let you know you’re not alone in feeling like this, but also things will get better. And if they don’t, that’s okay too and at least you’ve learned what you don’t want! This is probably the most I’ve shared with a complete stranger 😂 But don’t forget your worth and how amazing you are! Even if your house is the priority right now and other things have to take a bit of a pause, look at what you’ve created for yourself and achieved. You and Brian bought a mf’ing house!!!! You’re a boss.

[@bethallenia]

Thank you for sharing your story and experience ❤

[@katiekennedy8701]

I feel like your inspection person didn't do a great job because of all the issues you've been having. That really sucks 😕

[@AjaDang]

ya I'm feeling that as well. We did all the "major" things he recommended before moving in but don't remember anything else being mentioned as major issues.

[@AccordingtoNicole]

Hey. So I just found your channel. I just wanted to say that I went through this exact situation a year ago. I (somewhat impulsively) bought a house that wound up costing me far more than I had anticipated. I had a nervous breakdown, regretted it more than I could ever explain and generally felt like I made the biggest and most expensive mistake of my life. Like you, I also had the experience of everything going wrong as soon as I took possession and wound up having to borrow even more money to renovate. I also have a dog named Levi :) Shortly after I moved in I was sitting with my friend in a sushi restaurant, choking back tears as I explained the mess I had gotten myself into, and how homesick I was for my old place and my old life. She told me that I would feel better about it over time and that in a year I would have a totally different outlook on it all. I wanted to believe her, but just couldn't see the light at the end of the tunnel with this one. I told her that if that was the case I would owe her an AYCE sushi dinner, as I would have bet anything that this would always feel like the worst thing I've ever done. Well, a year has gone by. I still can't say the whole situations was *worth it* because I don't think any material acquisition is worth the immense anxiety, depression and stress that I put myself through. But I am A LOT happier and more comfortable here now. It took many months, many dollars and a lot of renovating, but it does feel like my home. I think I owe my friend some sushi. Sorry for the long winded comment. But I just wanted to let you know that even if it doesn't seem possible, this will get better. There will be a time when you're glad you did it. Just keep swimming.

[@Dhsu33]

Only a minute in and I’m already relating so much! My husband and I bought a house in February and it’s felt like one disaster after the next. I just keep telling myself we are catching up with everything the last owners neglected and that it won’t be like this forever. Hang in there. We got this! ❤

[@pixie0714]

I just bought a house this month and said the same thing to myself. The last owners neglected a bunch.

[@Kenya1984]

Nahh just homes in America are built so cheaply. They don’t hire engineers. I’ve owned 2 homes in California an older built 1986 and 2010 built. Both had leakage when it rains. It wasn’t the windows either, but the actual structure. The roof was newly installed along with the rain gutters on the 1986. The newer built was from the structure around the windows, and same thing happened with my neighbors. They replaced their windows and it ain’t it. Sold both homes in California and cashed a home in Finland. Never have any issues with this condo built 1984. Red bricks and concrete, super sturdy, arctic windows 6 pane windows, glass balcony, and free geo heating. My first home in Finland, same never had any issues for 3 years of owning it, never had to spent a dime on repairs, just built to last. They do pipe renovations every 50 years to ensure clean water. Everything is engineered, even the bathrooms you cannot renovate your own bathroom, must get an engineer and licensed contractor. Anything wrong you hold them accountable for life.

[@RF_Andy]

Lol it will be like that forever

[@qcspt]

Heyo, homeowner here with unsolicited thoughts - I think that diverting the water away from your door is definitely a need to prevent further moisture intrusion but maybe you don't need to replace the floor yet; let it dry out and save up for new floors. Gutters and drainage to divert water away from the house foundation might be a greater need to ensure that the house foundation itself isn't compromised with all of the moisture. You should keep an eye on the area around the door frame as well since it's getting so much moisture and ensure that there's no dry rot developing in that area. Good luck!

[@Spanishgirl1994]

Agreed !! I would prioritize water drainage away from the house. Water problems are no fun

[@vankhanh1]

Yes, THIS. This is the culprit of so many home issues that are often neglected until too late (even though it’s accumulative) if you can do this you can save yourself a lot of distress and money.

[@HanaHasi]

Yes, you're going to need more than gutters with that much water intrusion. Grading the ground away fro. The house and putto g in some kind of canopy or awning over the doors and windows that is tied into the waterproofing of the house.

[@theangriestoftabbies]

Seriously mold is NO JOKE

[@taraskinner3847]

@HanaHasi I think the canopy or awning would be a GREAT idea. Absolutely agree about the grading too. French drain can always be considered if the grading can only be changed so much. I know they can be pricey, but would be much less than dealing with foundation issues. Agree that gutters is just one part of the solution. Dealing with water is unfortunately challenging. 😔

[@nikkir1630]

You've got this! Six months from now you'll feel much much better about everything!

[@AjaDang]

that's what I'm hoping!

[@belvederegreen]

Five years. Give yourself five years to get your home to where you want it to be. I put a lot of pressure on myself to have everything done immediately and it was unnecessary pressure. Good luck on this journey. Wishing you positive vibes!

[@alib9162]

Completely agree. Five years seems like a long time, but when you have a house that needs fixing, the time goes quickly. The first year is chaos. It’s testing you. The second year you get more pride and motivation to tackle more. Year two we tackled landscaping, year three we enhanced rooms the way we wanted to live in them, the fourth year we did necessary but unsexy things like get a new driveway. Now in year five my house is beautiful and I just went art gallery shopping for the first time knowing my house is worthy of beautiful things to go inside and give it a personality. You will get there. I’m convinced the phrase blood, sweat and tears refers to home ownership!

[@BriteBlaze]

thank you for being so raw and open about that you all are going through. So happy no one was injured in the accidents. sending you positive energy to get through all of these challenges. yall will come out on top!

[@AjaDang]

🙏🏻

[@shannonwong655]

I feel you Aja. It's hard and no one talks about this. I had so much regret and anxiety after buying my first home because of the renos. I'm a perfectionist and everything was HARD and took TIME and I couldn't control things the way I wanted to. I hope that things will come together with time for you. Just know that nothing is permanent. It feels like a MASSIVE amount of time and money but in the end it's just a home. You can take your time with it, it'll come together. It doesn't need to be perfect NOW it just needs to be shelter and it'll slowly come together.

[@corinacamarillo1427]

Awwww! Don’t feel like buying your house was a mistake. In life, mistakes are lessons in which we learn and it makes us better and stronger in the end. Homeownership is not always easy, especially in the beginning but I’ve owned my house for 10 years and I’m pretty proud of everything I’ve put into it. Things will get better soon! ❤️

[@aohamer]

Aja, I promise you'll get through it. I felt the exact same way when my husband and I purchased our 1st home in August 2021. We had over $25k in repairs that were not caught during the inspection, including a sewer line rupture that had our home smelling awful for months. I cried almost every day and I thought we made the biggest mistake of our adult lives. Almost 2 years later our home is a stunning, fresh smelling, safe haven for our future family 💕 It makes me so grateful on days when nothing is broken, the sun is shining, and the grass is cut. The most important thing is your sleep and stress management (good for you for setting up the bed). That will help prevent more incidents spreading into other aspects of your life, like the car crashes. Maintaining a good relationship with my partner was key, too. We were a team and it made me so grateful that I wasn't doing it alone. Keep the joy and the fun. Have game night and a glass of wine with your hubby. You'll look back on these moments and laugh. Now, when one of us stinks up the bathroom, we chuckle because it's nothing compared to having 4 inches of waste in your crawl space 🫠😅 Hang in there, your home will be everything you dreamed and more! 💕

[@maryh9454]

Hang in there, Aja. I bought a new construction home in July 2016. 13 months later, the first floor of my home was under 2.5 feet of water because of Hurricane Harvey. I didn’t have flood insurance because I was zoned in a 500 year flood plain. I scrambled to get $65k in home renovations done in less than 5 months. Believe me when I tell you that I was beyond devastated… emotionally, mentally and financially. It took a lot out of me, but I survived.. stronger and better than ever. You will too. Keep your head up and welcome to Houston! ❤

[@rdsanantonio]

My husband and I bought in Dec 2021, and although we're grateful, we are still incurring unexpected costs a year and a half in, home and personal (so I really feel you). I feel like these are the types of things people don't tell you about being a homeowner. Sending you hugs because I know it's not easy, but I'm right there with you.

[@darviso1]

I appreciate your honesty in sharing these challenging times. I’m getting ready to make a big move and even though I’ve saved up to have a safety net through the transition, it still feels scary. When my anxiety gets overwhelming, it’s important to take time to prioritize my list and make sure to get in some small wins along with the big wins. We’re with you!

[@trishl6928]

As a new homeowner myself, I can totally relate to your frustration. This must be amplified by not having the furniture and all your stuff properly set up and that you are still settling into the new place. I can tell you that it took me over 6 months to finally feel like home at my current place and once it did, i feel like this is the only place I want to be and over want to leave it. So hang in there girl, give it time and make it yours.

[@veritylalalala]

Oh that really sad feeling when you’re in an empty house that feels cold and foreign. It’s awful.

[@independentjessy1634]

Aja, I’ve never commented before (I think) but feel compelled to right now. First off, this video was insanely refreshing because it was so VULNERABLE and real❤️ thank you for sharing. I’m sorry it feels so hard right now. Who knows if this is all happening right before the big breakthrough or if this is your intuition telling you that it’s done playing this character. Only you know💕 I wish you so much grace and warmth as you navigate what seems like a turning point in your life. Keep sharing your heart💕 self love above all else!!

[@TIUlove]

Aja I feel for you! Going from being an apartment renter to owner of an old ass house is a big adjustment. I think the financial lesson here is to plan for 1-4% of the cost of your home for repairs ANNUALLY. This is above and beyond mortgage, taxes, etc. Take it from someone who owns a home built in 1950- 4% is pretty conservative! All that said, I feel like it’s Murphys law that everything breaks in the first year. 😂 Hang in there, keep positive and eventually you will gain some momentum with the house.

[@xiaoandbao]

Speak kinder words. Nothing is hard. Positivity is contagious.

[@amberwarren100]

Aja! You got this! You are so strong and will be stronger coming out of this difficult time. Take breaks, explore nature. Breathe. It will all work out because you are so smart and capable. You'll look back and laugh at some of these times one day.

[@alexandreama7393]

I recently just bought my first place too and let me tell you it has been absolutely hell but believe me girl it is all going to be worth it in the end. It’s challenging at the moment especially because of the things you are hit with financially that no one really talks about with home buying but trust that it’s all going to be okay! This is yours to build and trust that you will learn to love the home you worked so hard to make! You are not alone.

[@hermoinegranger68]

hang in there! you guys will get through this! we bought an older house too 5 years ago, and my husband has been doing the repairs here and there. love your transparency! I appreciate that so much.

[@lifewithbella0807]

Aja you have everything you need in your life right now. I hate life's upside downs but after awhile I am slowly learning to just ride the wave and not resist it...and just experience it all...we just moved a year ago, got a house, left my comfy job and was lost for a while...a long while...but I had my constants to help me pull through...my bf and my dog Bella got me going even though I thought I hit rock bottom. Last Monday, my dog Bella passed away and I will trade everything just to have her back...she really carried me through it all. Cherish what you have right now, keep holding onto the good things, the positive things, hope is coming soon...there's no way but to get back up...the rain will soon be over. Just hold onto your umbrella and your loved ones, endure and learn through life's challenges.

[@KelliDM]

Oh girl, I totally feel ya. That’s a lot to deal with all at once. It can be hard becoming a homeowner, but you have also moved from California to Texas. That’s a huge transition and will take some time to adjust, so have grace for yourselves. You will get used to things and get into a routine again. Focus on getting your house in order, which it seems you’re already doing, then you can better focus on other things like your business. Praying things will go more smoothly for y’all.

[@lyndajoko9773]

Hang in there Aja. You are doing your very best with the situation and things you can't control. Remembering the things to be grateful for. Love and light!💜💜💜💜

[@anonamemiss]

Hi Aja, my husband and I just bought our new home in November, and just letting you know what you're going through is what all new homeowners go through. I was 28 weeks pregnant when we moved in and we had little help. Within a month, we had a plumbing disaster, got COVID, then immediately we both got Strep. Since it's nearing summer we now have a bug infestation (carpenter ant and wasps) we are dealing with (cause we thought it was romantic to live in the woods 🙄) and the masonry on the back patio is crumbling. Things are still in boxes and bubble wrap. But I'd like to say it gets easier managing these events! just know you are learning your house and you're building a new life all while transitioning out of an old one - it takes time. Just remember that the intention and energy you brought into this endeavor won't be in vain. Everything in time. I find what helps me is saying "this is temporary." It helps me get out of catastrophizing and feeling like there is no end.You'll learn to prioritize what needs to be done. And don't forget your strengths. You're smart, persistent, dedicated, a great planner and problem solver. You have ALL the skills to help you meet this new era of your life. Sending hugs!

[@zingara76]

Lol, same here. Our home is in the woods, We been dealing with all this annoying “neighbors” that a raccoon family that lived underneath the house. All this type of animals that will show up uninvited. Also, a mama bear that will come with all her cubs and get any trash out. Gardening $ composting 👩‍🌾 outside is also almost impossible. Another thing is the trees, you always have to make sure they’ll not come down and destroyed your property. However we still love living up here, but there’s lots of stuff that lots of people don’t understand about living in the woods.

[@phiakate5921]

Completely agree, owning a house is a constant track of what to fix next.

[@melissamarie7358]

This is real and thank you for sharing. If it helps, I read something about the “rhythms of life - the swing to the right is equal to the swing to the left.” In life, we will experience the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, but we have to find ways to rise above the negative experiences we go through, and push forward. I like to remind myself that it’s a part of life and that things won’t last forever. It’s great that you can recognize things to be grateful for. Great experiences will begin happening again. Keep yourself mentally strong 🙏🏾

[@sydneyinsonoma]

Homeowner of 2 years here--things are always going to be breaking, so watch a lot of tutorials to enhance your DIY skills! You'll save a lot of money in the long run if you can learn to do things like hang those gutters yourself. I've done so many things on my own that I had no prior knowledge of, but it works out every time. You've got this!

[@lisat8383]

I feel you Aja. There were so many life lessons I learnt when we bought our house and financially it was so much more than just house/furniture. We’ve lived here for two years now, it does get better! You will find a routine, you will slowly make that house into a home for you and your family and you will be able to budget for house maintenance in the future which will make it a lot easier. Sending love from Australia ❤

[@stephaniemaronde6893]

I completely understand and related to what youre feeling Aja. When we bought our first home, it was a fixer upper, and we had to live in it while the carpet got ripped up, painted, new floors installed, tons of cosmetic repairs, and i cried daily because it felt like we would never be settled and happy with the space. But with time it became our own little home that we customized over time and we loved it so so much. It will get better trust me!

[@sailormoon8855]

I get it. Home buying/selling isn’t all that it’s cracked up to be but everyone is in a different situation. You’re not alone! Hugs 🤗

[@maesugabo8198]

First of all, I'd like to say congrats on officially being a homeowner! My partner and I also moved from Cali to Texas back in October 2021, and we closed on a house in March 2022. Literally, during the first week here, the pipes backed up. Come to find out that the tree roots grew into the pipes. That set us back a couple thousand dollars because we didn't want to shop around for quotes because we obviously needed to get it fixed asap. We f*cked up and weren't present during the inspection - we could've caught that then and negotiated something with the buyer. Of course, our realtor sucked and didn't really guide us or give any tips either. I definitely cried a lot during the first few months because we didn't have any extra cash to get some things done around the house. We purchased a flipped house, and like you said in the previous video, the owner focused more on the look/aesthetic versus the quality of the work. Luckily, these are mostly cosmetic things, and the important things like foundation and roof are basically brand new. Looking back it one year later, it is still overwhelming because you still keep expecting things to break, but honestly, it feels so freakin' nice to have a place of our own. Yes, even till now we don't have it the house the way we want it, but we have so much time to get it there. Give yourself some grace :) That's what I keep telling myself.

[@tientienc]

Just watching the first minute of this....I cannot tell you how much I resonate with all that you're going through! My husband and I also just bought a home at the end of last year....and no one tells you how much stuff comes up in the first few months. What we struggled with the most is a lot of that initial stuff you end up needing to address is all the "back-end" things like dealing with gutters and floors etc. or in our case we had a leaky roof and some foundation issues that may not be as exciting. So you end up putting all the more "fun" things like furnishing and thinking about the way your homeis going to be and feel on the back burner. And it's emotionally draining.....no one tells you that....trying to manage and figure out a house while also managing and all the other stuff in life can be a lot. It's hard, but literally taking it 1 day at a time is what we had to tell ourselves to get through it all to eventually begin enjoying our home.

[@JustineMfulama]

Aww Aja sending you all the love! It seems hard now but eventually things will settle down. One thing I’m learning is that my anxiety around money is triggered every time I have a big expense. I then always to remind myself to trust that my money will work for me and I won’t go broke over it. 🙏🏾

[@melisssali]

I recently moved to the Houston area from NY. It has definitely been a journey to try to find our footing in a new state and a new home. Less than 2 months in, the freeze caused a pipe to burst and it flooded half the house. Being a homeowner means there's always something that needs tending to or fixing, so just take it one day at a time. Also, these mosquitos have been absolutely insane!

[@duongnt1412]

get citronella candles and tiki torches for your outdoor areas, they work great. Don't underestimate Houston mosquitoes they get me even through my workout leggings T_T

[@tamjeanell]

Welcome to Texas!

[@sunnyflw]

I have never related to a video the way that this hit. Like other comments, THIS EMOTIONAL JOURNEY is what they don’t tell you during first time home buying. We bought a home 3 months ago and the amount of crying, arguing and money flow was scary and exhausting. Thank you for sharing this and making me feel not alone in what I felt

[@abbysarah6011]

It will all come together Aja!! You got this. Proud of you for reflecting on the things you are grateful for. Keeping you in my thoughts ❤

[@NoraTKD]

Oh Aja I am so sorry to hear about the troubles😢Pay attention to the signs (double car accident) and pace yourself, you are doing a lot dear but it will all work out just fine!🙏🏻

[@Snowdrop1144]

Sending you hugs and prayers, Aja! I hope things turn around for the better soon. Thank you for being real and posting what you have been going through.

[@michelleblasky2014]

I am grateful to see this heartwarming video! I am grateful for your truthfulness. You were my motivation to pay my student debt. I have no doubt that you would be able to do this!

[@Dardear12]

Keep your head up. I am in the same boat. Bought a fixer in Feb, but truly didn’t know HOW much of a fixer until we started trying to fix/clean it up/make it livable. Sending you ❤

[@shapemailife6878]

Aja, I think it's great that you are acknowledging that you're having a hard time. What you're going through is hard. I relate so so much. When we brought our home, I swear everything that could go wrong did go wrong. And it was stressful because we made a huge purchase and then all these financial issues started showing up (more updates than we were planning, car broke down, miscarriage, and so much more). My husband was at work longer than we planned so I ended up dealing with a lot by myself and I felt stretched emotionally, mentally, and physically with two small kids under the age of 5. We too wondered if we had made a mistake. But it turned out to be a good thing for that stage of our lives. I'm sending positive energy your way. Feel your feelings but know that it does get better. Thank you for sharing so we can all feel like we're not alone (no one in my life shared that they had felt the way I did so I thought I was just not enough, Lol).

[@abbyoneill4473]

This is so real. And it’s not just unexpected home repairs that seem to pop up after buying a home - it’s everything! We bought a new home and then I immediately needed about $25k in dental work 😢 Your bills aren’t guaranteed to stay the same so it’s always smart to have ample $ in reserves! More than you ever think you’d need!

[@lazowwwbow]

Sending you lots of love! You’re doing amazing and the best with what you have!! Thank you for sharing the struggles. I don’t think it’s a sign of a huge mistake - I think change is just really hard and sometimes when it rains it freaking pours (literally in this case!)!!! Maybe hard is sometimes just a new challenge that we haven’t mastered yet. You’re so strong girl. Look at all the things you’ve accomplished and inspired so many of us. You did that, bish!!! You got this!!! We’re here with and for you ❤ Love you, Aja.

[@melanierhine593]

The first few months in a new home are usually like this. Take care of putting a roof over the door and getting gutters first, next take care of the electrical issue with the a/c, then get the part welded on the driveway gate. Then work on more furniture and getting settled so you can work. The new floors and remodeling can be done down the road. Also, maybe call an exterminator and have them spray around the outside of the house and yard. There are more bugs there than in LA because it rains more. Take a deep breath, try to relax and just tackle one thing at a time. ❤

[@chloejimenez475]

This!

[@whenitsjune]

Seconding this!!!

[@blessed7497]

Sending positive thoughts and peace your way. Everything will work out in your favor. You are showing a side of homeownership that some people don't share ( that stuff goes wrong and it can be hard at times). I appreciate your vulnerability and honesty ❤️

[@karenchu9478]

Hey Aja, I know exactly how you feel. I just closed on my house here in Houston as well 2 months ago and have been in ongoing stress with that, work, and my personal life. It is hard for the first year is what I’ve been told, don’t give up and take it day by day. Rooting for you

[@MrCatification]

If you haven't started floor work yet and if the floor issues are contained to the front door(aka- that is the only part badly damaged that 100% needs immediate action, the rest could make do with some reconditioning instead of changing), you might consider one of those tiles flow/blend into wooden floores type of situation for your front door. I've mainly seen those in open kitchen setups, but it could also work by the front door, help separate the entry fway fom the rest of the livingroom and cut down on your floor changing costs for now.

[@coviebunghanoy]

Thank you for your transparency 🥺

[@MissTXTee]

Remember, these are all 1st world problems, girl! You are not homeless. Your are not bankrupt. You are not widowed. Your anxiety has kicked up because you've lost control. These unexpected issues are called "life" and, unfortunately, it doesn't stop, girlfriend. But, YOU can definitely stop trying to control it (Read up on the concept "Radical Acceptance"). To help manage your anxiety. Go back to basics...Make a list of the expenses, prioritize by need, and tackle them 1 by 1. In all honesty, the fact that you can't find peace speaks volumes about what's going on IN YOUR HEAD about expectations and the value/stress/disappointment of material things/money. Get yourself a good therapist to talk it out and start that workout routine STAT. It will REALLY help to bring back some calm and organization to your life.

[@adashofdomestic1251]

You are not alone! We bought our “dream home” and it’s been a nightmare. We have only been here 7 months and have had to put in $65,000 on repairs only to find we had mold in our kitchen and had to remove 1/4 of the kitchen and it’s going to cost another $50,000 to redo the entire kitchen. I have spent alot of time crying over this. It isn’t covered by insurance and wasn’t caught at the inspection. Hang in there! Glad to know I’m not the only one.

[@currency2266]

It will get better. It might take some time, but things will be better

[@modelno2004]

Big group hug to all of us first time home buyers in these last few years. I’ve owned my home for two years and some days I look around and and say “fuck this place”, and other days I’m out in my garden, watching nature, or sipping a drink on my deck, LOVING it. It’s hard. Just learned about something called ‘nail popping’ in homes that go through extreme weather changes rapidly, I think there are birds (or bats) in my attic that is hard to access, wood eating pests are afoot and our original 30 y/o windows are all wood (😅)…yeah, this is a hard process. But the days that you can look around and say “this is mine”, are worth it.

[@milliemorales8968]

I'm sorry I am behind but were those issues not found during the inspection of the home?

[@Thebalancedmama_]

Stay strong and always think positive I know it’s hard but try things will work it’s self out if it’s meant to be just remember that!

[@bernadettemary2135]

One day at a time and one thing at a time, Aja! You’re taking on a LOT buying a house in a new state, things will be messy so take it easy and don’t be hard on yourselves m. Hope more good things happen for you and Bryan soon. So glad you guys were safe in the accidents. Sending love ❤

[@roxanagarcia3996]

Aja, cheer up kiddo!! Everything will be ok. I'm not sure if you are spiritual or not so if you are try to meditate, pray and connect with your higher power, that will make you feel better. It works for me all the time, I have also been through shit lately. Sending you lots of ❤

[@emilympaitsel]

That was so real! Thank you for being vulnerable! This will get bettern

[@AidaSMacedo]

I’m sorry your transition has been so challenging. Buying a house is a huge commitment and I think the stress causes other things to happen. Same thing has happened to me. Like everyone has said thanks for sharing your journey bc many of us have been there. Pick one corner of your new home and make it yours. Ritualize your achievement and joy. Everything else will fall into place. Also enlist friends and family to help that has helped me us so much. This is only your first house. You will have more in the future. 🎉

[@sierralaibarnett]

You got this girl. I was 19 when I bought my first home. I was still in college and I was renovating a property for the first time. I was so so so broke so I was renovating it all with my father's help (go dad!). I ate my meals, did my homework and watched movies on the floor for MONTHS. It's rough, but realizing that the home is YOURS is powerful. It's yours in every way.... And yes, NOTHING goes to plan. "Doing everything and getting nothing done"... You are not alone in that feeling. Take breaths, be grateful for a good partner (and doggies) and a roof and keep on rolling with it. It will all settle in time. Keep breathing...You got this...

[@notanotherseahorse8369]

if you stop paying your property tax, your big daddy government takes it away. It is never truly "yours" theres always string attached to it.

[@mrsmimi22]

@@notanotherseahorse8369 😬🙄

[@annabethyeung8512]

@@notanotherseahorse8369 does that alleviate the stress of property repairs or what’s your point

[@jessicadavis2744]

It’s a great investment and don’t stress about getting everything done at once. Focus on one room at a time. Front water leak area takes priority and then look up handyman in your area. Ask your neighbors if they have anyone they use- that can help save you money and stress to fix little hiccups that pop up like your gate situation. You got this!!!!

[@cheyenne7982]

Totally understand this. We've lived in our home for 4 years and the anger of having to fix things comes and goes. Some days I love our house and can't imagine living somewhere else, and other days I just wish it would burn down. It's been better as of lately since we've been able to pay people to fix things.

[@procrastimania]

My husband and I learned the word zemblanity early on in our relationship when all the shit just hits the fan at the same time. We moved countries at the end of last year and it took us a few months but we are finally feeling settled. It’s gonna be a few hard months but you know you’ll get through it all and look back on this moment with gratitude that it’s over. Hang in there!

[@mariannedressler6784]

I’m so glad you have your sweet doggies there to do what they do best….unconditional ❤️. I promise you it will get better. Your overwhelmed at the moment but you are smart and tough. You just got knocked on your ass with a lot of things at once. The only routine you need right now is to breathe and put one foot in front of the other. So thankful you guys were not hurt in your accidents. Damn…that was some sucky luck. Remember things can be replaced. People can’t. I’m rooting for y’all. Hang tough bitch!!

[@cindyalice9660]

That’s all normal when buying a home. It’s takes some time to adjust to your new environment. Also, you have a life time to fix it and personalize it like you want it. Don’t feel like you have to rush into it. One project at a time… 10 years in my home and we still haven’t done our kitchen. Next year, that will be our next project. As of right now, we decided to focus on windows. Like I said, one project at a time. Time will teach you love it and appreciate it too.

[@katiecao64]

Hi Aja, You’re doing such an incredible job already and i hope you know that it’s okay to sit down and breathe. You just bought a house and moved into said house, so you deserve to have a rest and not be so preoccupied by everything all at once.

[@breevitae]

keep your head up. sometimes the bad comes to discourage us. trust your current and past self.. you made a good decision! this too shall pass

[@brittanyhuffracker149]

You've got this girl! You are so much stronger than you think❤ you're going to get through this then this lesson will be able to be used for others. You're a wonderful role model 🙌

[@loveLJ91]

Also, just know that although it's so overwhelming at first, your SKILL set is about to expand exponentially and so will your confidence. You will know how to fix things you've never even touched before, and you'll know what's a big deal and what isn't. You'll feel like freaking superwoman and your home will become your kingdom because you put your heart into it. Just keep in mind that anything worth doing in life is scary at first. You don't do things because they're easy, you do them because they're hard - then you conquer them! You got this, boss.

[@jm618]

You might wanna focus on that AC. It’s only going to get hotter and more humid. Also why don’t y’all dig out a little trench to help the water out of the yard.

[@conniechan7632]

Wow relatable on SO many levels! Similar experience with my partner's first home buying experience! Know that it does get better! Let yourself feel. You didn't make a mistake but unexpected things just showed up. You and Brian will get thru this and you're gonna be thriving again in no time

[@Salty-studios.]

You got this girl!!!! Think of it as untangling wires/a tangled necklace…..go slow, patience, one thing at a time.

[@shaenhe]

Hi Aja, I'm sorry to hear that. You are not alone. Take it easy ok.

[@msmintygreen]

Sending you so so so so much love! You’re building a new life there and it will take time build your routine and life. 👊🏼 you got this! xx

[@mayaleex3]

Thank you so much for being so honest and sharing everything about this experience. I'm sure it's not easy and even though home-buying isn't as glorifying as the American dream makes it seem -- definitely still a HUGE accomplishment and hope you guys can settle in soon and feel more at ease :')

[@KJx185]

I've always appreciated your transparency with financial struggles and stress. It's possible that buying a home was a mistake or maybe it'll turn out to be one of your greatest decisions - But I think it's too soon to make that assessment anyways. Give it at least six months to iron out the urgent to-do's and build back up your safety net. It'll get better!

[@vr00mie87]

First few months are definitely the hardest; especially, if those come with costly repairs. I feel for you guys and I promise it will get better! It just takes time which makes it seem much more difficult. The house is super cute and you will eventually have it in a place you love and are proud of. This is all coming from experience. Hang in there!

[@lexyarnall]

Are you in your neighborhood buy nothing group? most places have one through facebook & you can get a lot of good stuff for free- might help you get some temporary furniture and feel a bit more settled ❤ i’ve done 2 big moves in 3 years and it’s been a lifesaver for me, plus you get to meet people in your neighborhood!

[@izzit1103]

Omg as a first time home owner I so relate to this. Crying, regret, happiness...such an emotional roller coaster. You are not alone sister.

[@speakingofmeesh]

Hello! I am new to you channel and I have been watching your moving experience, so I cna prepare for when I move. I am so sorry to hear about threse accidents. I hope you both will be ok in all apsects (phycially, mentally, emotionally, stress levels, etc).

[@MadisonFalcoFoods]

This time in Austin is really bad with mosquitos but they will go away soon

[@celinebutac8514]

Give yourself some grace ❤

[@HelloWorld-hb7yt]

The way you flipping the breaker is not the solution, it's actually dangerous, I think the amp is not enough to run the AC. You need to get a HVAC tech to have a look.

[@leilani2258]

My brother bought his 3rd home earlier this year. He didn't know what a septic tank was and found out AFTER they bought the house that their sewage goes down into their septic tank. They are city people and living in the country is a MAJOR change. But he's loving it out there now. Hoping the best for you guys!!

[@khrystynashevchenko]

Maybe you don’t need to repair everything. Do what is necessary now and focus on you

[@elodieelvira7913]

I'm sorry did you not get an inspection before buying this house? Cause an inspector would have pointed those issues you talked about at the beginning of the video, and simple common sense could also have told you that you should get everything estimated before buying the house, this way you don't have to come crying on the internet about not being able to make urgent changes in the house you bought without being knowledgeable enough.

[@gussta1]

Give it some time, you'll figure it all out. Just tackle one thing at a time...the rain coming in and the breaker tripping should be first. Don't worry about the floors until the water issue is fixed.

[@raealdridge8200]

Thank you for your honesty!!!!! I want to be a homeowner one day, but doing it alone scares me... I don't think ownership is ever a mistake, but I do think it changes our priorities. I hope things get better for you and your family 🌻

[@Gigitx]

I totally understand what y’all are going through. Except I have things to fix by myself before I close on the home so it can pass the inspection from the city of Houston (since I got Dow payment assistance from them). I can’t wait to get this over with already. Buying a home feels like a mess

[@citygurrrl6387]

gutters are cheap and save a home from water damage!! do them 1st!! let stuff dry out before doing floors. also maybe the pergola should come down??

[@angeliaquino9759]

Sending you lots of love! 💖 Buying your first home and working through home issues isn’t fun. Hang in there - this will all pass Xx

[@ursulaleonowicz2744]

I started watching your videos a few years ago, when I was 1) barely working 2) living in a studio apartment where I could literally touch the oven from the bed 3) in debt. YOU inspired me to get out of debt, and, in November 2022, I bought a house alone, as a freelancer, in the country. My unsolicited advice to you is this: focus on, and be grateful for, what you have now that you never thought you would (including a leak in your very own entrance, a broken gate in your very own driveway/backyard and insects in your very own living room, lol). Fix what needs to be fixed immediately, like the leak, and really get to know your house before embarking on any major renovations. You will not regret becoming a homeowner, I promise you. You got this, girl! ❤

[@knkk0020]

Sending lots of virtual support! The joke of house ownership is that the house owns you more than you ever own it. These feelings are 100% normal. As a military spouse who moves a lot, these feelings are common even when you've made the move a few times. While it won't fix the water coming in, getting a dehumidifier will help remove the excess moisture from your home. A good shop vac that can suck water is also key to remove excess moisture from your floor boards. Updating the weather stripping around your doors & windows will also help; that's a small trip to the hardware store that can pay dividends.

[@DJ-unome]

Hang I there, life isn’t always easy but it will make you understand that you are still blessed to even have a home. Take a breath and time to look at your accomplishments even though it’s a hard beginning. This too will pass.

[@ihaveadreamformykids4400]

Buying a house is costly! As soon as we moved in, things started coming up. It’s a yearly maintenance. The most expensive maintenance is the HVAC. We always spend at least $500 to get it maintained yearly.