[coffeebean]

Originally Posted by DAVES

We bought 9 plus years ago. Buying a home is perhaps the largest or among the largest decisions we make. Add to that, for us it meant quitting working. Wife and I well that makes it even more complex.

Crazy prices? Prices are crazy everywhere. For people who have a home that they will be selling or have sold a home, they too got crazy prices for it-I know we did.

Old school-write it down on index cards in some fashion that makes sense. Quiet 1-10.
Near action 1-10, etc. Then compare cards with your wife. There will likely be some shock as to differences.

Aside, my wife wanted NEW, I wanted RESALE. You know we bought NEW. Not my style but some people seem to think AFTER THEY HAVE BOUGHT, I wish we had.................

No one has a basement. If, they did they would say it is and indoor swimming pool. I wish I had-I MISS MY BASEMENT.

As far a highway noise. Plantings will lessen it. The home, walls etc will lessen it. Block construction and if offered double thick glass deadens noise. Not saying typical two layer glass. It is also made of heavier glass.

All those noise abatement measures you mentioned don't work when the windows and sliding door is open. There is plenty of time in the cooler months that we enjoy the fresh air.