Landlord Blues

The tenants that lived in my duplex when I bought it have moved out. They were an older couple and lived in the apartment for nearly 10 years.

We went to look at it yesterday and it was so depressing. And filthy. And made me smoke and drink. Of course I already returned the security deposit and wish I hadn't. They were old and poor and I felt sorry for them. But, I still wish I had waited until I did a thorough look through. I should not have returned it. Live and learn, I guess.

What needs to be done:

Carpet removed
Wall paper removed
Ancient paneling removed
Plaster repair
Paint
New kitchen floor
Wood floors refinished
Ugly bathroom repair
Scrubbed to death

Boyfriend and I will probably do most of the work ourselves. Where will we find the time with both of us working full time? How much will it cost? Will our relationship survive it? How will I pay the mortgage with only half the rent coming in? This is causing me no end of worry. I'm trying to be optimistic, but it's hard.

Instead of writing this, I should be at the duplex working but Boyfriend had a rough night last night and is still sleeping.

On top of that, the tenant upstairs has done a little painting. When she moved in she asked if she could paint and I told her yes, if she used neutral colors. Is dark brown/gray/purple neutral? I didn't think so.

And there's more. I have been planning Mr. S's 100th birthday party which takes place this-coming week. To celebrate the festivities I will not be able to come home between work and events on both Monday and Tuesday, meaning I will leave my house at 7:00 a.m. and won't see my bed until about 11:00 p.m. both days. And I get to rise at 5:30 a.m. every morning! Then there is the office celebration and the old rich man celebration I have to attend. I love him, but this week is going to kill me.