Thank Goodness I Like the Guy

I had my first appointment this morning with Casey, the project manager for my new house.
He seemed like a regular sort of guy, which is just what I was hoping for. Too slick means he doesn't actually do any of the work (and probably never has). Too rough--maybe he'll trash the place if you piss him off?
This guy struck me as someone who works hard and takes pride in doing a good job.  I told him my experience with rennovations and home-building and made it clear that I understand what it takes to build a house, and that I am very clear on what I am getting in a "production build".

He explained the post-tension slab foundation (which I was curious about), how they will handle things like cracked/weak studs (reinforce with additional boards) and the general timing of things. He seemed confident that I'll be moving in January. (!!!)

I stopped to get a photo, though things may change. When I left Casey was waiting to hear back if the forms needed to be moved. Apparently the plans used to set them were an inch off. He estimates the slab will be poured by the end of the month in any case.

Holy Sh** This is Actually Happening

My sales guy said I should hear about permits by the 8th, but I was ready for things to be delayed after all the damage and mess in the Houston area. That, and buying a house just a couple of weeks after deciding it was the right thing to do was starting feel a bit dream-like.

So when I got a text from Brandon (previously mentioned "sales guy") with this photo, my gut reaction was "oh crap. this is really going to happen." Yes, I'm more than a little freaked out at having a mortgage all on my own, but if I let fear keep me from doing things, I'd have a very different (and not anywhere near as fun) life.
So after work, I drove up to check things out and to see what my commute will be like. Without traffic, it is quick (less than 15 min), and easy--two toll roads and just 2 traffic lights.
I'll meet with the project manager, Casey, on Monday for the "pre-construction orientation".

My new back garden.

The rest of the back garden. Not much, but big enough.

Me in the future "Great Room"

From the curb (or kerb, for my UK friends)

From the front door