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I 100% understand what you're saying, and do not disagree. I've been looking for about 6 months (more seriously in the last two months) and have a pretty decent idea of what is out there and what I can afford. Mostly been checking CL and Zillow. I probably am finding hundreds that fit my needs, but many less meet my wants and go above and beyond. I would have no problem finding a place that fits the criteria, but I'm obviously trying to find the best one.
The place we're seriously considering at the moment has everything we want (and more) and is priced right. I am generally the biggest cynic you'll find, but this guy posted a terribly written CL ad in the wrong region, with no pictures and only a phone number. After talking to him a few times, I learned that he had a few heart attacks recently and has no interest in roughing it at the camp anymore. It's also about 4 hours from where he lives. He's also got a kid in college he's supporting, so he just wants to wash his hands of the place. He's gone up there probably once a month to check on it, but hasn't really used it in over a year. He's selling it fully furnished, including everything like fishing gear, pots and pans, tree stands...everything. He just wants to walk away from it. Price wise, the land alone is worth more than what he is asking. He's sent me dozens of photos and I went and checked it out to confirm it was everything he says it is and was quite pleased. If anything, he undersold it and neglected to mention the brand new windows and roof. Additionally, my cousin owns a title company up there and has been helping me out.
I know you're not expecting me to justify my decision making process to you, just explaining where I'm at.