Can I Find a Better Situation?

Rebecca,

Welcome to the area! I have an uninsulated 200 year old house and even I don't pay $1,000 per month for heat! (there have been a few super cold months when we came close to that, though, over the years!) I know moving is a total headache, however, it sounds like the house you are in is not well insulated or something. In your shoes, I'd be looking for another house. Look in the newspaper under homes for rent, check ut Craig's list online, or even talk to a realtor, I understand it's a great time to buy, especially if you don't have a house to sell! Hope you all work it out and you are right: I can't wait for some warm sunny days either!
L.

That's a lot to pay for heat every month, wow! I would definately look for something else. If you could find something with better heat options, you could get a nicer place probably for the cost you are paying. Are you looking to rent or buy? That will make a difference in where to look for sure. We moved to Harrisburg from MN 9 years ago too, so I know how it is hard to adjust. Your best bet is to find the school district and location you want and find an experienced realtor to help you. Does your husband or you know any in your area? I would definately start looking. Best of luck.

Dear Rebecca,
I would definitely start buying the Sunday paper, if you don't already get it, and begin looking for something else immediately. If you think that you will be staying here for awhile and are interested, there are a number of reputable local realtors that I'm sure would be happy to help you. you did not say whether you owned a home previously. My hubby and I live in a 3BR, 1BA home. However, we have natural gas heat. You mentioned that you're spending about $1,000 a month with rent and heat, which sadly sounds about right, DEPENDING on where/what part of town you live. However, it seems to be a buyer's market right now. You may want to look into foreclosures and such. While benefitting from another's misfortune isn't pleasant, someone will get that home, and it might as well be you. The home that we currently are buying was bought in foreclosure, remodeled (not great quality work, but hey) and then re-sold for about $20,000 profit, I think. That being said, be SURE that you find a good realtor to make sure there won't be any surprises with regards to liens, back-taxes, etc. Good luck and God bless!

I would try and buy a house if you think you are going to be here for a period of time. While home prices in the area are not cheap, you are at least making an investment in something rather than "throwing away" money every month! PA actually has a first-time buyers program that will give you a large down payment as long as you agree to pay them the money back when you sell the house. This may make owning a home you like extremely affordable (and less than you are paying now!) Good luck!