It all started back in 2001. I had been looking for a place in the center of town, closer to work and favorite hangouts. My sister had also recently moved to town and we were going to be roommates to try to save some cash. We were having trouble, however, because earlier in the year Tropical Storm Allison came through and flooded the city. Apartments were in short supply while people were having their houses repaired. But, I eventually found a realtor that dealt in independent leasing and she showed us the place.

It was perfect. It was the whole bottom floor of a HUGE duplex built back in the 20’s. The area of Houston I was looking in had been the ultra-rich suburbs when the house was built, and you could tell this had once been very nice digs. It was 1000 square feet with dark hardwood floors and trim, large bedrooms, a butler’s pantry, a dining room, a den, and very high ceilings. It also had a yard with a garage and a huge front patio. All for $825 a month!

We began moving in the next day…

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