I was tired of paying rent my whole life and was ready to fulfill my dream of buying my own house.

A dream home at an unbeatable price seemed like the ultimate win—until I realized there were reasons

for the low price hidden in the basement.The first time I saw the house,

I could hardly believe my luck.It was like something from a postcard—a charming colonial with white siding and green shutters,

tucked away at the end of a quiet, tree-lined street.Sure, the paint was peeling a little, and the roof

could use some work, but it had character. A lived-in charm that felt… welcoming. Almost.Susan,

the real estate agent, was waiting by the front door, her grin as bright as the clipboard of documents

she waved in the air.“Perfect day to finalize your dream home, huh?” she said, her tone so chipper

it made me wonder if she was trying a little too hard.I nodded, eager to see inside. The house didn’t disappoint.

Room by room, it seemed to reveal more reasons for me to fall in love.The living room

had a fireplace that practically begged for stockings at Christmas, and the hardwood floors creaked just enough to remind you they had a history