My son and I have been residing in a leased townhouse near his school for the past year. Our current home is approximately an hour’s drive from the school, and the heavy traffic we face daily chips away at the soul of every commuter. Fed up with this inconvenience, I resolved to find a place much closer.
I secured a lease for a townhouse within the same village, with its gated entrance located just a quarter kilometer from the school gates, translating to a mere 10-minute walk to and from home—extremely convenient. As my one-year lease draws to a close in three weeks, I opted not to renew it, instead exploring other units within the same village. To my delight, I found a much larger unit for just an additional Php 1,500 in monthly payment, merely two blocks away.
I promptly contacted the owner that same afternoon, and by Saturday morning, we were touring a lovely duplex and discussing the terms of the lease, including advance and security deposits. Yesterday, Sunday, I finalized and signed the contract, made the necessary payments, and received the keys. Our move won’t happen until around the first of April, as we plan to transition gradually over the remaining three weeks at our current residence.
Both my son and I are thrilled about the change. I’m particularly drawn to the vibe of this duplex—it boasts a larger floor area, a carport, and charming front and back yards that I can utilize as service areas. Additionally, it already features a gate and fence, providing an added layer of privacy. Unlike our current lease, where people ranging from neighbors to delivery drivers can easily walk up to our front door and knock, this new property offers a sense of security I appreciate.
Not to say that I dislike our current living situation—I’m quite fond of it, actually. It has served us well and will always hold a special place in my heart, being the first home I’ve lived in that isn’t my parents’ house. At 39 years old, it’s the first time I’ve experienced a sense of independence from my parents.
However, I believe it’s time to pursue greater opportunities. The past year has been marked by significant personal growth, particularly in the last six months. While I’m content with where I’ve been, I’m even more excited about where I’m headed