Great Deal...or Expensive Lesson

Because this upcoming move is happening in three parts it requires some complex logistical planning. Planning that is sure to give a relaxed, laid back, fly by the seat of your pants type gal, such as moi, severe acid reflux.

I have started munching on Tums so much that I am frequently spotting a chalky mustache. Yum, yum.

Here is the basic plan: packers move everything we own to OH. We stay in FL. We sell house. We stay in FL for another 4 weeks. Then we go to a family reunion en route to OH where we then stay on base until we can find a house. Simple, right?

This is the point where my eyes bug out and I start to drool. It requires no less then 5 different temporary lodging reservations. No potential for disaster there, right? Oh yeah, and we are traveling with cats so it's not like we can just check into any old hotel in case of disaster.

35 nights adds up to quite the hotel bill. Ever on the look out for a thrifty deal, I decided there had to be some option a little cheaper than paying for a Motel 8 for over a month. Not to mention living in a hotel room with 2 kids and 2 cats leaves something to be desired given Hubby's anticipated reunion.

This led me to my first mistake: Craigslist.

Let us all sigh in unison about my stupidity.

I should preface this by saying: yes, I have heard all the horror stories. I know people who have gotten burned big time. So, YES, I should know better. But really, when has that ever slowed me down?

So I found a killer deal. We can rent a condo on the beach with 2 bedrooms, pets approved, for less than the cost of staying in the cruddy TLF on base.

If it sounds too good to be true...

I promise I won't say I wasn't warned. Still, I did everything I could think of to make sure it is a legit deal. I saw the place. I got a contract in writing. I verified the owner's existence with the building maintenance association, and I checked him out with the BBB.

BUT.

There is always a but, isn't there? He demanded payment in full ahead of check in via money order. So, full of hope that I have found an honest person, I mailed the money today. I'll let you know if I just paid a huge stupid tax.

Please try not to start the wager in my hearing...I'm fragile enough as it is.