Toss the Cash

A Very Cute Home In Buffalo, NY

Gadabout has discovered, and recently reinforced, the fact that just about any obstacle can be overcome by throwing money at a problem. So, if you have enough money to toss about, you’ll enjoy a relatively trouble free life. I know what you are thinking, “money can’t buy you happiness, Gadabout.” True, but you can have a damn good time running like a rock star across the French Riviera during the summer, drinking and partying. An abundance of Euros can also be used to effectively payoff the policia in Spain, France and Italy. Gadabout knows this first hand—it is true, but that was a long time ago, so let’s fast forward to Buffalo, 2007.

A friend of mine has moved to Buffalo and purchased a home built in 1937. That’s an old house by Gadabout standards, and if you have ever owned a home that has been around the block a few times, then you have a good idea where I am going with all of this. Personally, I prefer to buy new, but if taken in on a dated property, then I insist on it already being refurbished. That is just my way—minimum headaches.

Now, my friend fell in love with her cute (Marcie, the real estate agent, liked to use “cute,” so let’s ride with it) cape cod near the university. It has 3 bedrooms, 1 and a half baths, hardwood throughout most and a “cute” yard. It is just plain “cute” all around. Certainly too cute to pass up! Gadabout, on the other hand, saw an aged roof, a falling apart garage, evidence of water damage, requirements of electrical upgrades and so forth. Yes, I also think the house is cute too, so don't get the wrong idea. I gave a thumb's up to the property.

Anyway, cash will fix anything! In just two days time the carpet was replaced on the stairs and in one of the bedrooms (carpeting the basement is delayed due to seeping water during the first thunderstorm), electrical updated (electrician has to return in two weeks for some other details), new appliances installed, roofing and gutter guy scheduled for tomorrow, and all utilities are turned on. This little place may be a bit of a money pit for now, but the almighty cashola is being thrown in the proper direction and it will be a great (cute) little place to live in a month’s time. Isn’t America great—toss the dollars and all works out in the end.

If it worked for Tom Hanks and Shelley long in 1986, then it can work for Gadabout and his special friend in 2007! Fingers are crossed.