What I Learned From Buying an Apartment as a MINIMALIST

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  • Опубликовано: 31 окт 2024

Комментарии • 334

  • @SimpleHappyZen
    @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +91

    I'm thinking of going for a soft and calming blue paint on the bedroom walls! Thoughts? 😄

    • @Billy33753
      @Billy33753 Год назад +9

      Love the soft colors.

    • @francineh.7825
      @francineh.7825 Год назад +10

      Yes! Soft blue would be beautiful! Just a tip though decide if you want the blue to be a warm blue or a cool blue as the paint undertones then play a factor in that.

    • @Ania_1987
      @Ania_1987 Год назад +6

      Years ago we invested in high quality paint. We havent done up the flat for 10 years

    • @davidp1563
      @davidp1563 Год назад +4

      Pick TWO colors. Paint 2 adjoining walls one and the other two the other color. It looks fantastic. I usually do the darker color for the wall(s) with the window(s). It makes it seem like the outside is coming inside. ;-)

    • @j.m.7056
      @j.m.7056 Год назад +10

      An important tip: Purchase several small cans of paint in colors you like. Paint 12" squares on walls in different locations. The colors will change in different lights.

  • @kimhargrove2013
    @kimhargrove2013 Год назад +10

    Congratulations on your new apartment! After being married most of my adult life, I've been divorced for 9 years now and lived in an apartment for the past 6 years. I bought a small house 2 years ago. It's perfect. All my friends have big houses with big mortgages, but my place is small and perfect. I hope you enjoy living at your new place for many years!😊

  • @marshallexi
    @marshallexi Год назад +47

    I was always told, as someone who avoids overconsumption, that the most responsible thing you can do is live in the smallest space you can. So no regrets that we’re minimal and I was happy to buy a one bed as it’s all we need. So cheap to run and so easy to keep warm and clean!
    Congrats on your lovely new home! Enjoy all those little renovations that you make along the way to make it even more special!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      So true!! Definitely easier to keep warm and clean and so nice to have everything close by. Thanks so much Alex :) I look forward to making all the little changes. Have a great weekend!

  • @davidp1563
    @davidp1563 Год назад +27

    For your bedroom... a bedspread one size up from your actual bed size makes the room seem much more luxurious. I have a queen size bed with a king size bedspread. It hangs all the way to the floor all around and looks GREAT.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Ah clever!!! :)

    • @bumblebee_ms
      @bumblebee_ms Год назад

      You can also put two doonas in one cover to make it look full and plush.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +3

      @Bumble Bee Ah, I wonder if that's what they do in the bedding stores haha. It always looks so much better in the stores

    • @bumblebee_ms
      @bumblebee_ms Год назад +1

      @@SimpleHappyZen They probable do, good point. It's a great way to make your bed warm in winter too.

    • @FeelslikeHalloween
      @FeelslikeHalloween Год назад +2

      Definitely! I do the same thing with my bedspreads.

  • @lindacurtis7267
    @lindacurtis7267 Год назад +20

    Everything you say is true! We’re just doing the exact opposite, selling our family home and moving to a rented apartment. Money in the bank, no maintenance and free to travel without worry because we’re away about 6 months of the year! . I’m so excited to have less stuff !

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      Wow amazing, wishing you lots of fun on your adventure!!! 🤗🌺

  • @kendrascorner
    @kendrascorner Год назад +16

    Living below your means is such an important principle to live by. At a young age I remember my parents telling me that when I get older and get approved for a mortgage, always buy less than you are approved for, because the banks are willing to push you to the limit financially. Even though my husband and I are not yet homeowners, we are choosing an apartment that is maybe not as nice as something else we could afford, in order to meet other financial goals at this time. And It is such a weight lifted from our anxiety to know that we don't have to struggle to pay the rent each month.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Exactly! So true :) Wishing you and your husband all the best with your financial goals!

    • @kendrascorner
      @kendrascorner Год назад

      @@SimpleHappyZen thank you so much! All the best to you in your new home!

    • @lifewithastrid
      @lifewithastrid Год назад +6

      Ah yes, it's so important indeed!! My sister and her partner both work full-time with good incomes but they bought their house based on a little more than one income.
      So if one of them loses their job and (for example) need to work on minimum wage for a while, they can still afford it..

    • @kendrascorner
      @kendrascorner Год назад +2

      @@lifewithastrid that's a smart strategy!

  • @alexiscarroll7159
    @alexiscarroll7159 Год назад +34

    Congratulations, Vera! Feeling safe in your home is incredibly important and worth a few tradeoffs. Your home looks beautiful and I wish you joy, fun, and patience in setting it up and going through the learning curve of home ownership! Congratz!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +4

      Thank you so much Alexis for your kind comment!!! 🥰🤗✨ Have a great weekend

  • @ravenstormchild6491
    @ravenstormchild6491 Год назад +14

    Congratulations on your new home! I am presently selling my condo to purchase another condo that is half the price of this one. This means that I could be mortgage free in a year. Goal setting!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +3

      Wow that sounds awesome! Good luck 🤗🌺

  • @Debbiesdilemmas
    @Debbiesdilemmas Год назад +7

    Congratulations Vera on your new home.❤️🙏 I’m glad you weren’t swayed by the banks to overextend yourself. If interest rates rise you could find yourself in big trouble. I think people get excited when they hear they can get a bigger mortgage than they initially thought and they are easily talked into buying a bigger home. My husband and I never wanted to be house poor…..meaning that it would take all of our income to pay our mortgage, utilities, taxes and insurance without any money left over for fun. We still wanted to be able to travel and have money for entertainment, dinners out, etc. There’s no point in buying a home and then not being able to enjoy your life. We bought our first home and tried to put money down on our mortgage any time we had some savings. It made it possible to buy a bigger home sooner than we planned and we also sold at a profit. The biggest lesson is to live within your means.❤️

  • @sailsouthpacific
    @sailsouthpacific Год назад +4

    Great advice, Vera! Don’t let the bank tell you what you can afford, but decide what you need. We bought a small house and borrowed half the amount we were approved for. Our mortgage is very reasonable and doesn’t cause anxiety. I wish you and your boyfriend much happiness in your new home!

  • @jamiethielman7318
    @jamiethielman7318 Год назад +3

    For the bedroom I like the white walls really makes the room look bigger and brighter. Then love small decore to make the place feel more welcoming

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thanks Jamie!! Yes I definitely have my eye on a few decor pieces to make it a bit cozier :)

  • @CupcakeCottage
    @CupcakeCottage Год назад +24

    So happy for you. Yeah, the rule when I was a young adult is that your rent should cost 1/4 of your income. That didn’t change. The banks just decided to tell you it changed.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +4

      Yes, so strange! Definitely important to run the numbers yourself :)

    • @santanalaforgue9154
      @santanalaforgue9154 Год назад +2

      In France the monthly payment for your mortgage cannot exceed 33% of your monthly income. In some cases it might go up to 35% but by law it cannot be more than that. Also, your loan cannot be spread over more than 25 years.

    • @LivingForThis
      @LivingForThis Год назад +3

      ​@@santanalaforgue9154 Exactly what I was going to say 😊 Also they calculate how much you have left after paying the bills and we hope our salaries will increase over time so the monthly payment is lighter on the budget as time goes 🥰

  • @ljshaw8516
    @ljshaw8516 Год назад +3

    I have green tea walls in the bedroom, two pictures of Zen pictures. One has a leaf above water and the other is stacked beach rocks, bamboo and water. These are very calming as is the light green of our walls. I have my Himalayan salt rock light as well. Happy nesting in your new, beautiful home! x's lj

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Oh that sounds lovely!! I LOVE the color of green tea walls, I'm thinking of maybe painting the walls in the toilet that color (above the tiles I mean)

    • @sluggo206
      @sluggo206 Год назад

      @@SimpleHappyZen LJ Shaw's room sounds wonderful. Vera, I wonder if you have something big and blue to put on the wall to help you decide. It might even be worth splurging on a thrift-shop sheet to hang on the wall or drape over furniture. I've fond a dark tablecloth over a TV cart (without the TV) looks nice, and it may give you an idea about how that much blue would look like.

  • @kirstinpiche
    @kirstinpiche Год назад +1

    My decor tip is calendars. I love photography but I'm not a good photographer. So I bought a Scotland calendar, my favourite vacation ever. Framed the pictures. You can buy frames with mattes that fit different sizes. And it all didn't cost an arm and a leg, plus you can change the pictures out when you want.

  • @dominiquetheeasyminimalist
    @dominiquetheeasyminimalist Год назад +8

    Bravo Vera! The apartment is amazing, I wish you both many years of happiness in your new home 🤗

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thanks Dominique!! 🤗✨🌱 Have a lovely Sunday

  • @shenanigans554
    @shenanigans554 Год назад +6

    Congratulations to you & your boyfriend Vera! 💖 Your new home is so lovely & serene. The best advice I received was not to make any big permanent changes until you've lived in a new home for 6 months so you can get a sense of what your needs are in that space. For a bedroom, I like a blockout curtain to make the room dark for sleeping as well as maintaining the temperature according to the seasons.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +4

      Yes, that's true :) I need to channel my inner patience hahaha. And yes, we've ordered blackout curtains for the bedroom, they'll arrive within two weeks

  • @francineh.7825
    @francineh.7825 Год назад +7

    Your new home looks great!! It will take time to decorate it how you like. Im constantly moving things around and I've been in this cottage almost 4 years now. I like what you said about a curated space, that resonates with me. I just redid my bedroom - so I repainted it and bought a new duvet cover and am in the process of hanging some art. Just have to sew some new curtains now. It's amazing how those few changes have transformed the bedroom. I think the best thing I like about my bedroom is I put in a sitting area, I just really enjoy reading in that spot.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      Ah a reading area in the bedroom sounds lovely :) And yes, when it comes to the bedroom, I think the sheets and curtains make a HUGE difference :) Just as important as the walls.

  • @chillibird2511
    @chillibird2511 Год назад +3

    Having your own home, you can renovate how you wish. Love the light walls and the floors. I think a nice bedroom decor is something that brings joy to look at when you wake up in the morning or even when you enter the room.. Maybe a plant or a picture of trees ❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +3

      Yes, you're so right!!! Definitely want to find a way to bring more plants, greenery or pictures of nature in there. I'm starting to form some ideas now :)

  • @AtoZenLife
    @AtoZenLife Год назад +2

    Super congratulations on your new home, Vera! Also, love your cute little stuffies and Ghibli collection - we have such similar tastes. 😂 Cheers! 🥂

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw yay, thanks!! 🥰🥰🥰 I bought the plushies in the Studio Ghibli museum in Mitaka, Japan. So they mean a lot to me ❤

  • @antiquesrestoration3874
    @antiquesrestoration3874 Год назад +4

    Congratulations on your new home. You chose wisely and I am sure you will enjoy home ownership more with each passing day. My favorite piece of bedroom decor (that is also functional) is my pink Himalayan salt lamp. It fills my bedroom with a warm, cozy, relaxing glow.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw I love that :) We've brought really warm and cozy lamps with us, but I might go for a pink Himalayan salt lamp sometime :)

  • @sluggo206
    @sluggo206 Год назад +2

    Congrats on the new digs! Jane Jacobs says overcrowding is not caused by too many people per square mile, but more people than rooms. One room per person is important, so that people can be alone when they want to. This lowers stress and prevents tensions from spilling over into the neighborhood. They don't have to be bedrooms: living rooms, kitchens, dens, etc, count as rooms. The rooms don't have to be large either. So your apartment with three small bedrooms may iindeed be better than a larger apartment with 1-2 bedrooms.

  • @rheagiboney2790
    @rheagiboney2790 Год назад +3

    I’m so happy for you. You look so relaxed and comfortable. Your home looks beautiful. Thanks for sharing.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      Aw thanks Rhea 🥰💕🥰💕 Have a lovely day!!

  • @AbundantlyMinimal
    @AbundantlyMinimal Год назад +6

    It was so fun to see many clips of your home and you working on things within it! It's already really coming together and I'm so glad you feel much more safe and secure here! ❤

  • @terrirojas
    @terrirojas Год назад +7

    Congratulations! Incredible how the energy of this place comes through the video as yours (vs rented). Congratulations again, what a beautiful home you and your sweetheart are cultivating 💕

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thanks so much Terri! I have to admit it does feel different if you've bought it as opposed to renting it... Have a lovely day

  • @wiviannegrapenholt9324
    @wiviannegrapenholt9324 Год назад +10

    Congratulations to your new home! 🎉 Must be wonderful to feel safe and grounded. And I think it already look a lot like your home.😊

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thanks Wivianne!! Yes it's so nice to feel at peace in your own space :)

  • @karenbrooks7197
    @karenbrooks7197 Год назад +6

    Lovely to take a peek into your new home. 😊. A soft blue would be a great choice for your bedroom! Consider a shade that will ideally suit you through all 4 seasons! Buy some tester pots and paint a good size swatch on the walls (or paint a piece of card that you can move around and try in different locations in both natural and electric light), to see what you prefer. Good Luck. ❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Good tip! Thanks Karen :) Have a lovely Sunday!

  • @mildredstone5069
    @mildredstone5069 Год назад +1

    Hi Vera, your new place looks so peaceful, congrats!! 🙂
    I feel the same about office chairs, but I can recommend those adjustable office stools you can get or a kneeling chair. When I sit on one of our kitchen chairs for work it's no good for my posture.
    Happy decorating! 🌞

  • @MsDoglover02
    @MsDoglover02 Год назад +1

    I love all the natural light that comes in and your balcony. I can't wait to see what you do with it. I think having a patio and lots of natural light makes my place feel larger.

  • @bollybelly
    @bollybelly Год назад +3

    Congratulations Vera! What a clean and modern look that you have in your new apartment! The things that you want to do, certainly look manageable and fixing up that balcony will be fun❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thanks Linda!! :) Yes I'm really looking forward to it :)

  • @lucytitus2183
    @lucytitus2183 Год назад +3

    Hi Vera. Congratulations on your new home! It is so beautiful, cozy and peaceful. I am so happy for you and your boyfriend. I wish you both so much happiness in your new home!❤🤗🎉

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thanks for the good vibes Lucy 🥰🥰🥰💕💕💕 Have a wonderful weekend!!

  • @Marsolan
    @Marsolan Год назад +2

    Congrats!! Beautiful space. So happy for you.
    In our bedroom we only have bed, two small side tables and a chair. Nice curtains and painting on the wall serve as decor.
    Very calming

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Sounds lovely Marina! Yes, when it comes to a bedroom, I think it's good to keep things quite simple so they don't overwhelm you when you're trying to get some rest hahaha.

  • @12342087
    @12342087 Год назад +1

    Congratulations 🎉 your place is lovely, and you can't put a $ on peace of mind. I'm so happy for you that you feel safe in your new neighborhood 💛

  • @Flukey_1970
    @Flukey_1970 Год назад +3

    Ahhh thats great to see you guys moved and settled. Sounds like you have made the right decision for sure.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thanks Martin!!! :) We're still very excited haha

  • @LaLayla99
    @LaLayla99 Год назад +3

    Congrats! Im also saving up to buy my first home. Its scary and exciting. I hope to remain as practical and down-to-earth as you. ☺️

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      It's definitely scary and definitely exciting :) I know I look down-to-earth in my videos, and I am most of the time, but I've had some serious panic moments these last couple of months. So yeah, don't beat yourself up if you get scared a little at times, hahaha. Good luck with saving and buying your first home!!

  • @ChronicVillainy
    @ChronicVillainy Год назад +13

    Congrats on your home! It looks really nice, and it's great that you already feel safer! Buying less than what you're approved for sounds like a good thing to consider. I noticed we have the same floor lamp. It's very nice for reading! :D
    As for decoration, maybe an accent wall in a color you like? You already mentioned curtains, those already go a long way to make things homey. If there are (smaller indie) artists you admire, maybe a framed art print or two (you also get to support the artist)? Or have memorable scenery from travel pictures printed? I also have a wall section above my dining table dedicated to pet pictures (past and present) but that obviously doesn't apply to everyone. As for your balcony; it's easy to grow your own mint in.. uh... 'plantenbak' while still having plenty of room to sit.
    Thanks for the last point! I live in a ground-floor appartment with a yard. It's a rental from a housing corporation, very affordable and well-isolated. I'm very happy with it, it's big enough for me and my two cats.
    Interestingly, some people really insist I should be buying a home regardless of being happy with what I have, because 'it's certainly better to buy in the long run', even if it means lesser living comfort, higher energy bills, even less space for my cats and hobbies, and a shitty location that involves a longer commute to work. Or stress due to the upkeep and eventual sustainability requirements. And I'm like ?????. Home ownership isn't the most important thing there is and is no indication of financial stability. I don't care about a higher net worth, but I do care about the option to work 4 days instead of 5 days and not having to worry about upkeep. Buying a home sounds like the worst decision in my case, especially because not having a partner makes me financially vulnerable if something happens. So yeah, I think it's good to underline that whether buying or renting is better depends on multiple personal factors. The answer varies from person to person.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      So true! Loved what you said about renting vs buying. :)

    • @epicnamepwns1242
      @epicnamepwns1242 Год назад +1

      It wouldn't really be your "higher net worth" until you pay it off, before then it's an asset only to the lender.

    • @ChronicVillainy
      @ChronicVillainy Год назад

      @@SimpleHappyZen I find it wild that living comfort or one's personal situation seem to be hardly part of the consideration. They're like 'buying is ALWAYS better' but it's not.

    • @ChronicVillainy
      @ChronicVillainy Год назад +1

      @@epicnamepwns1242 True! Until you pay it off you don't really own it either. People always seem to forget that.

  • @linseymain254
    @linseymain254 Год назад +1

    I find certain shades of green very tranquil for a bedroom.

  • @mukundjere9230
    @mukundjere9230 Год назад +3

    Hi Vera.... How are you? Firstly congratulations for your new house...
    We are minimilist people, so we knows how to live happy without stuff 😀..
    Anyway enjoy moments... 🎉🎉

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад

      Thanks so much for the congrats! :) Yes we're doing well now. We've been under quite a bit of stress since March, so we'll need some time to cool down and recenter. But we'll be all right :) Have a wonderful rest of your weekend!

  • @panipiotrowski2275
    @panipiotrowski2275 Год назад +1

    This video was very encouraging and I found the tips great. As for decorating a bedroom: I like to start by thinking about what I will see when I first wake up. I find it helpful to try sitting in an almost empty bedroom and deciding which direction I like the bed to face (if I have more than one option that is). As I'm someone who is a little groggy when I first wake, I like to see something I love which is both familiar and soothing and direction plays into this. I also place a high importance on textures when I first wake up and when I'm tired and ready for sleep which includes more than bedding but how the floor feels (or a rug), edges on the shelf I use for a bedside table, and even the paint finish on the walls by the light switches. These are small things, but I tend to find they help me make decisions about what to put in the room. No matter what, I hope you enjoy the process of making your new home delightful.

  • @holliejane_
    @holliejane_ Год назад +3

    Oh Vera it's so so beautiful! Looks so cozy and simple and well thought out already! ☺️ I hope you will both be very happy there. 🤗

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Yay thank you Hollie!!! 🤗💕💕💕 Have a great weekend!

    • @holliejane_
      @holliejane_ Год назад +1

      @@SimpleHappyZen You too Vera! Thank you. ☺️🤗

  • @darrenpierson2650
    @darrenpierson2650 Год назад +1

    Congratulations on your new place! It looks very nice! My tip for you is between skill share, RUclips, and diy shows you can always learn how to do anything you want to do or fix or update something in your place. My wife and I have tried many different things to fix things, install things, (new flooring), etc., always plan for it to to take longer than the experts say it will take. Some things we have done go just as planned as others take longer because we have to figure out how to do the next step or something to that end. You and your boyfriend will do great!

  • @Aina-sm1sx
    @Aina-sm1sx Год назад +3

    Congratulations on your new appartement 😊 Wishing you all the best for your next chapter in your new home 💚

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thank you so much Aina! Have a lovely weekend 🌱🌺

  • @mindbodyhome102
    @mindbodyhome102 Год назад +1

    I used ro be a mortgage loan officer and would always talk about the stress of being house poor. You two are smart to keep that monthly payment low!!!

  • @007Wanda
    @007Wanda Год назад +3

    Congratulations on your home!
    Femtech has courses in a lot of Dutch cities - a basic course for jobs in the home (how to use a drill or how to hang/wire a lamp etc). It’s for females only.
    I really enjoyed it, it’s really good to know I can do it myself now.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Really??? That kind of sounds perfect :) I'll check it out, thanks!!!

  • @rosemarywilliams9969
    @rosemarywilliams9969 Год назад +1

    Take your time on the bedroom. Think relaxation and quite.🖤

  • @stefaniedee2969
    @stefaniedee2969 Год назад +1

    Thanks Vera...this video came at the perfect time for me. I've been renting my whole adult life and am considering buying a small condo or house. The tips you gave and your calm manner of relaying the information helped me feel less stressed.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thanks Stefanie, happy you enjoyed the video :) It's a stressful thing, and I definitely also had some anxiety about it all. So take it easy and remember it's okay to be a little stressed or scared at times :)

  • @TheSmithXIII
    @TheSmithXIII Год назад +5

    Congratulations on your new home Vera! It looks very nice and functional :)
    I fully support your observation that it's better to buy a home based on the needs and not on one's affordability. Also buying a home below one's financial means can help paying off the mortgage quicker.

  • @katmaciag5510
    @katmaciag5510 Год назад

    Peace of mind and emotional comfort are invaluable. All the best at your new place. 😊

  • @quorrakai
    @quorrakai Год назад +1

    Congratulations on your new home! Wishing you and your boyfriend many years of happiness and joy! Have fun decorating and getting settled.
    Homeownership is the best!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thank you!!! :) Have a wonderful rest of your weekend

  • @mariaelvenia2117
    @mariaelvenia2117 Год назад +2

    Congratulations Vera! Your place looks great so Zen like!! Blessings on your new home! Home is where the ❤ is ❤

  • @terrilloyd3691
    @terrilloyd3691 Год назад +1

    Enjoy your new home and the process of making it your own.❤

  • @osbo54
    @osbo54 Год назад +4

    It's beautiful Vera! I think a light blue in the bedroom would be great. It is so great that you can buy an apartment where you are. Here in the States where I am, you can buy a townhouse or a condo, but not an apartment, that I know of. Your place is sleek and clean, and bright. Very beautiful and it fits your lifestyle perfectly.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Hi Lynn!! I'm curious :) What's the difference between a townhouse or a condo and an apartment? I don't believe we really have condos here... but maybe they're the same thing that we just call differently. Here, apartments can come in different shapes and sizes. For example where we lived before was also an apartment, but the building was only 4 stories high. Ground level was shops, and then there were a few apartments above them. However in our new apartment, it's a huge building that's like 15 stories high, more like a huge flat. But it's still also called an apartment :)

    • @osbo54
      @osbo54 Год назад +1

      @@SimpleHappyZen I think maybe the condos/townhouses and apartments are the same thing. You can get a ground level condo here or one higher up. As for what we call an apartment, you can only rent those. A townhouse is a two or three story home but it is connected to many others. It doesn't stand alone. There are also duplexes but I think you can only rent those. I think it's just a different terminology. I know with condos there are fees for the upkeep.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      Oh is that a townhouse?! I get it now :) Yes we have MANY of those. Both for renting and buying. Actually freestanding homes are quite rare here. We do have them, but only for the rich people haha. This is a small country and it's very densely populated, so space is limited. That's why we don't have many freestanding homes, and instead we have lots of high flats where you can have hundreds of homes all living together in a small space.

    • @AnnGoldberg-t4c
      @AnnGoldberg-t4c Год назад +1

      I'm in the states, and a condo is an apartment that you can buy.

    • @shauna1624
      @shauna1624 Год назад

      You can buy an apartment in the US but it mainly happens in New York City, under a co-op. There's a big approval process as you become a 'shareholder' in the building. A condo is generally defined as a dwelling where you only own what is within the walls of the unit. This could be something that looks like an apartment, a townhouse, or even a stand alone structure. There is an association that the owner pays a fee to each month that takes care of the outside of the building, the common areas, and sometimes even utilities. With a townhouse, there is usually a shared wall and the units are part of a larger development. The owner owns everything within the walls as well as the surrounding property. Single-family homes are generally stand alone but I do have a friend that owns a house that has a shared wall with another house. It's not very common but it does exist.

  • @trishacarlson4122
    @trishacarlson4122 Год назад +1

    So glad you had a smooth move transition, Vera! Happy to see you livin' your best life!

  • @persephone213
    @persephone213 Год назад +2

    I know this has been a long time coming, so happy for you!! 🤩

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thanks Amber!! 🥰🙃🏠🔑 Yes, a LONG time hahaha. Have a great rest of your weekend!

  • @juliemarkham4332
    @juliemarkham4332 Год назад +2

    Congrats! (You could put the pillow in the corner and do the karate chop look.) I've heard monthly payments are around 1% of the mortgage amount. Glad you feel safe and grounded in your new place. LOVE those kitchen cabinets! 😊

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад

      Aw thanks Julie!! I LOVE the cabinets too hahaha. Also just so nice to have upper cabinets now, instead of the open shelving we had in the previous apartment. Open shelving looks great, but it's so impractical haha. Also, I'll try the karate chop! 🙃🙃

  • @carlienvandernet7902
    @carlienvandernet7902 Год назад +1

    So happy for you that you do feel safe now, that is really the most important part of a home. And having a balcony is very nice as well. All the rest will come together or is easy to live with, like turning on and off the heater whenever needed (most often it is even cheaper to do it that way). The house looks very comfortable and changing things when you live in the house is fun and most of the time more thoughtthrough than starting with all kind of buying at the start of a new home.
    Light blue is a gorgeous and calming colour for the bedroom, get some duvetcovers that have blue in them as well and/or maybe a throwblanket, get a beautiful print that you can put on the wall and it will feel great ❤. Have fun and really enjoy your new space (and maybe take a cat)😻.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Hi Carlien! Yes, so true! I'm really looking forward to slowly making some changes, I think that will be a very fun project :) Also thanks for the bedroom tips!!!!

  • @jimadams6159
    @jimadams6159 Год назад +1

    Thank you for share your lovely new home with us, along with your usual great advice and suggestions of living a better minimal life. I am sure you will have fun decorating and putting your stamp on your home.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thanks James!!! I'm really looking forward to it :)

  • @angelamelum4304
    @angelamelum4304 Год назад +2

    I am so excited for you! Somehow I didn’t realize that in your move you were actually buying. Congrats!!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thanks so much!! Yes we bought it, I still kind of can't believe it hahaha

  • @gaylegillit672
    @gaylegillit672 Год назад +2

    Hi Vera, I’m not even finished watching your video and I’m so excited for you. You made the right decision to not let the bank encourage living on the edge of your means. The minimalist mindset is so helpful with this. And thank you for your inadvertent book recommendations. I paused the video and put two books on hold at my library that I had not heard of: Vegan Japaneasy & The Things You Can See…. 🎉🎉🎉❤❤
    PS: I ❤LOVE❤ creaky floors, and squeaking hinges. They are very nostalgic for me… plus no one can sneak up on you 😂

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thanks Gayle!! Happy you got some book recs from the video too :)

  • @gabrielas3602
    @gabrielas3602 Год назад +2

    All the best for you and your boyfriend in your beautiful home. I a sure you will love the floors and the heating if you are used to it. Perhaps you can transform your bedroom toa simple and happy zen place. Light and airy, with structured Accessoires

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад

      Aw that's so sweet :) I'm starting to form some bedroom decor ideas now... :)

  • @remiborowiec7700
    @remiborowiec7700 Год назад +2

    Congratulations on getting the new apartment. I hope you feel great there 🙏🏼

  • @margaretmcgregor5686
    @margaretmcgregor5686 Год назад +3

    Congratulations to you both Vera. I have a really big problem with "stuff" it has happened over time - 19 years - I am now approaching 67 and realising i don't have the energy i used to have after caring for my senior pooch who has passed and now I have a puppy who's 6 months but a slow learner although very fast at getting to stuff he shouldn't! Where do I begin without having a nervous breakdown lol? I have had anxiety for about 4 or 5 years because he had stomach trouble before he developed a heart condition. I am calmer now with selfcare but it is an overwhelming task - I have 3 bedrooms - I used to host European students before Brexit and that kept me on the straight and narrow. 7 years later it's overwhelming how much I need to get done. Even deep cleaning needed in the rooms i do use. Do you have a playlist for someone like me - older and overwhelmed?
    Lots of love from Scotland 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

  • @boodsarahellen2240
    @boodsarahellen2240 Год назад +1

    Your place is beautiful!! Congratulations!!

  • @loisbarry5534
    @loisbarry5534 Год назад +1

    Vera, many, many, many congratulations on taking the leap and taking out a mortgage on an apartment with your boyfriend. A huge step for you. Blessing to you both. Wishing you happiness and contentment in your new home together 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад

      Thank you so much for the good vibes! 🤗✨🌱💕 Have a lovely rest of your weekend

  • @PABWECG
    @PABWECG Год назад +1

    So nice to see you again, and in your new place!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Yes, it's so nice to be back! I look forward to having more time to focus on making videos again :)

  • @ronda176
    @ronda176 Год назад +1

    Congratulations! It looks so bright and cozy! I’m glad you’re in a safer area.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад

      Thanks Ronda! Yes it really is quite bright, lots of natural light. Really happy here :)

  • @The_Relaxation_Coach
    @The_Relaxation_Coach Год назад +2

    Congratulations on your new home, I love it. With your bedroom, as long as you have all you need, which I am assuming you do, what about waiting for moments of inspiration, I expect during the coming weeks and months you will see/find something that inspires you and you will be able to go with the flow and create your ideal bedroom

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      You're so right! :) Actually, since filming this video earlier this week I'm already starting to come up with some inspiration :) I think it'll be quite nice when it's finished

    • @The_Relaxation_Coach
      @The_Relaxation_Coach Год назад

      @@SimpleHappyZen Thanks for replying!

  • @pattiadkins2736
    @pattiadkins2736 Год назад

    Make your bedroom you. The colors you like, especially. Also I alway say, just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Congrats

  • @cassieAre
    @cassieAre Год назад +2

    This is so exciting! I look forward to your future videos and updates on your new home ❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thanks so much! :) I'll definitely keep sharing when I have updates :)

  • @lisacossey
    @lisacossey Год назад +1

    Congratulations on your new home, Vera! So very happy for you! 😊
    I love your videos and can not wait to share in your journey!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thanks Lisa, I could feel the good vibes coming through the screen :) Have a lovely Sunday!

  • @manuelacacciato6729
    @manuelacacciato6729 Год назад +1

    Congratulazioni for your new home! Have a good time!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thank you so much Manuela!! :) Have a great day!

  • @marianne8280
    @marianne8280 Год назад +1

    In Sweden you have to be authorized if you are going to do things with electricity and plumbing, a few things you can do by yourself but most of it you are not allowed to do. Nice apartment.

  • @sunnysideup8283
    @sunnysideup8283 Год назад +1

    Congratulations! Your new home looks lovely… wishing you loads of happiness and zen in the new place.

  • @jacquelinebrown3085
    @jacquelinebrown3085 Год назад +1

    Wishing you love, luck and happiness in your new home 🏠 x

  • @susanspisak65
    @susanspisak65 Год назад +1

    Just beautiful!!! Airy and spacious !!! Best wishes with everything…. Excited to watch your journey unfold!!!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад

      Thank you so much Susan 🥰🌼🥰🌼 Have a great weekend!

  • @renusingh8573
    @renusingh8573 Год назад +1

    Such a pretty and calm space ✨️

  • @jasminealixandranorth
    @jasminealixandranorth Год назад +2

    Tim Anderson's book 'Vegan Japanese' is a fabulous cook book. Nice to see it on your shelf! :)

  • @lea4776
    @lea4776 Год назад +1

    Congratulations Vera. 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

  • @Stumpybear7640
    @Stumpybear7640 Год назад +3

    Congratulations on your own home, Vera. You both deserve it xxxx About bedroom walls, is the room warm or cold? Which direction does the window face? What is your favourite colour? Etc xxxx

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад

      Thanks so much Linda! And yes, good questions to consider! :)

  • @pigletsbank437
    @pigletsbank437 Год назад +1

    Gefeliciteerd! Fijn dat je je er thuis voelt👍
    Je zou kunnen kijken voor foto behang voor de slaapkamer, er zijn schitterde opties beschikbaar (bos, zee, stad tot printen van eigen foto's etc)
    Of teken of copieer iets (mandala of je disigns op doorzichtig plastic en vergroot het met behulp van een lamp op een muur
    Succes met je kast goed meten is mijn tip, tenminste drie keer of zo vanaf de onderkant vd deur, zet een streepje met potlood en boor 't gat van beide kanten met weinig druk zo beschadigd de deur niet ( zeg dit uit ervaring ik heb de zelfde kast en deur, die is mooi hè!)
    Veel geluk samen❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Ah dankje!! Ja ik heb ook naar behang zitten kijken, maar er zit hier spachtelputz op de muren. Dus dan zou het denk ik eerst glad gestuct moeten worden, of een ander soort behang als grond behang. Dus ik denk dat ik het voorlopig bij schilderen ga houden. :)

  • @PeggyWebb
    @PeggyWebb Год назад +1

    Absolutely can't wait to move, but it is still almost a year away. We have gunshots in the parking lot right outside my door almost every weekend and two of my roommates work until midnight. I don't sleep worrying until they get home. I'd love to own, but home repair and yard upkeep are not possible for me. Having almost a year to refine my thinking is really helping. I'm still very flexible, but I've been able to sort out the "fantasy wants" (yard with chickens and a huge vegetable garden) from what I can really manage.

  • @LinkUpWithLenka
    @LinkUpWithLenka Год назад +1

    Beautiful! Big congrats and all the best for the new chapter.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thank you so much Lenka 🤗✨💕 Have a great day!

  • @os_1126
    @os_1126 Год назад +1

    I'm so happy for you, Vera! Thanks for sharing. 🤗

  • @Audrey.17
    @Audrey.17 Год назад +1

    Congrats on your new place!
    Yes, I did see the plaque!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thanks Audrey!! 🤗💕 Haha yes it's so cool to be able to have it out in the office now haha

  • @olivemaycards
    @olivemaycards Год назад

    Feeling safe and relaxed at home is so important. You can fix or change so many other things but not an unpleasant or unsafe neighborhood :( I still have moments of anxiety seeing things in our house that are broken or that I don’t understand but everything can be fixed and you can learn so much just from YT videos and asking friends and family. Our house is 100 years old so I figure it has survived all kinds of renters and owners, it can survive me making a few mistakes too.

  • @christined2495
    @christined2495 Год назад +1

    Congratulations Vera on your new apartment, it looks lovely… minimal, and very peaceful
    Thank you for sharing with us… 🌸💞🌸

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Aw thanks Christine!! Hope you're doing well, have a great rest of your weekend!

  • @susanwells2731
    @susanwells2731 Год назад +1

    Congratulations on your new home, I’m really happy for you and wish you all the best in your new home x❤

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Thank you Susan!! 🤗🌱✨ Have a great day!

  • @reymondatienza8427
    @reymondatienza8427 Год назад +1

    WOW CONGRATS! I've watched your previous video regarding your house situation before. I'm so happy you guys are moving on!

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад

      Aw thanks so much! Yes, we feel much more comfortable here :) Have a wonderful rest of your weekend!

  • @alexandraalmeida3661
    @alexandraalmeida3661 Год назад +5

    I totally agree with you! There are no perfect houses! And sometimes people get frustrated because they want a Dream house and there’s no such thing! This is my third home and my previous one was much, much bigger because I wanted space for my things! I wanted! Not needed! Because in truth I didn’t need all those things! I learnt to detach myself from things I didn’t need, didn’t use and even didn’t like that much and that’s how I became minimalist: I just own what I need or brings me joy. Things that need my constant attention, because they need to be cleaned aren’t useful, need to go. I now live in a small 3 bedroom house, the rooms are quite small, my kitchen looks like a toy kitchen 😂 (some people would make fun of it or feel sorry for me 😂), but I love it! I have an art room, which is small, but I never had one, and I have a gym room, which is small, but, again, I never had one. My living room is small, but I feel happy and I live alone, why would I need a big house? My floor is old and makes sounds 😂, but I don’t care!
    As for decoration tips for your bedroom, well, here’s one for a total shell lover: one wall is covered with shells 🐚! I love the beach!
    Blue is an awesome colour, my mom decorated my childhood bedroom in blue and I loved it.
    I wish you all the best in your new lovely apartment 💙💛🧡❤️💚💗🖤💜♥️

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Oh I love that!! Thanks for sharing Alexandra, your home sounds lovely :)

    • @sluggo206
      @sluggo206 Год назад +1

      I grew up in an 11-room house with 3 people. I remember as a child telling my dad, "We need all these rooms because we do this thing in this room, that thing in that room, etc." He said, "But you can only be in one room at a time." Later in high school I lived with my dad in an apartment, and he spent a year in a houseboat. Those were fine, and I realized we didn't need that much space after all.

  • @dieManu77
    @dieManu77 Год назад +1

    Such a nice home ❤ I'm happy for you, especially feeling safe!

  • @GrandmotherWindsoftheEarth
    @GrandmotherWindsoftheEarth Год назад

    awww Blessings and good luck for your new abode. xxxx Love from Scotland .

  • @VeganMangoQueen
    @VeganMangoQueen Год назад +2

    💚🌱👏🏼 so happy for you. I’ve considered getting some Ghibli DVDs but then I’d have to get a dvd player and told myself no that’s not minimal, but I like that you remind us it’s not about the number of items you have. I got a few wall prints of spirited away, howls moving castle and laputa castle in the sky and I have about 10 movies that I purchased on RUclips. I just wish I could find the Japanese with English subtitles because I’m learning Japanese so it would be cool to see how much I understand as I continue to study. 💗enjoy your new quiet home

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +2

      Definitely no problem! Get a dvd player if you can and if you want to :) We went for a playstation that still has a disk port thingy, so we can watch my dvds on the playstation. But I imagine this will be a thing of the past in a few years haha. So I'm hoping it never breaks. Also, in my opinion, the Japanese voices are sooooooooooooooooo much better than the English dubs :) So if you can watch them in Japanese, definitely do :) Also great for learning the language like you said :)

    • @VeganMangoQueen
      @VeganMangoQueen Год назад +1

      @@SimpleHappyZenoh that’s so smart dual purpose with the games! And I may have found them in Japanese to download if I sign up for a streaming service for a month I think I can get them all😊ありがとうございます💗

  • @lizzabbott
    @lizzabbott Год назад

    Lovve your beautiful new Home , Vera ! Congratulations ! How exciting ! There are 3 other y’tubers I know of who have moved recently ! 2 are minimalists. ( Connie & Benita). You all are inspiring me b/c I’ve wanted to move closer to Family for a while. Happiness & blessings to you two ! Well done choosing a place you can truly afford !!

  • @tammybrennan2040
    @tammybrennan2040 Год назад +1

    Your home looks beautiful 🦋

  • @lynnoorman2144
    @lynnoorman2144 Год назад

    Re repairs and renovations - start yourself a sinking fund for calling in professionals - now! Sometimes it is better and cheaper to call them in at the beginning rather than trying to DIY beyond your comfort zone. Sorry if this is reoeat of someone's previous comment. Glad you've moved to a more peaceful area - I did the same a few years ago and long term the benefits build day by day. Looking forward to seeing what you do with the place. Thank you.

  • @lauracruz5965
    @lauracruz5965 Год назад +1

    Precioso tu nuevo apartamento.
    Qué bueno es que sientas gratitud por lo que tienes!
    Esto habla muy bien de ti.
    Que disfruten el nuevo vecindario.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Oh, muchas gracias Laura, ¡que tengas un buen día hoy! 🤗✨💕

  • @onestrangeanimal3212
    @onestrangeanimal3212 Год назад

    Congratulations on your new home. It looks lovely. Bright and peaceful.

  • @Omnysim
    @Omnysim Год назад

    Your place looks amazing already! Wishing you amazing years in your new home.

  • @mariskavandasselaarofficial
    @mariskavandasselaarofficial Год назад +1

    Wat een mooi appartement! Ik ben blij voor jullie dat jullie nu op een fijne, rustige, veilige plek wonen. Dat is zoveel waard! Wat betreft de slaapkamer: misschien wat leuke reisfoto's printen? En dan kijken waar je in de loop der tijd tegenaan loopt, waar je je echt prettig bij voelt? Ik bedoel dus: niet forceren om iets op te hangen, maar het op natuurlijke wijze laten ontstaan. Planten zijn ook altijd goed.

    • @SimpleHappyZen
      @SimpleHappyZen  Год назад +1

      Dankje Mariska!! Ja daar zit ik nu ook aan te denken :) Ik ben niet heel goed in geduldig zijn haha, maar ik ga denk ik even mijn tijd nemen. Heb al wel wat leuke ideetjes. :) Planten gaan er zeker komen ook. Fijne zondag!

    • @mariskavandasselaarofficial
      @mariskavandasselaarofficial Год назад

      @@SimpleHappyZen Wat leuk dat je al wat ideeën hebt! En je bent creatief genoeg, dus wellicht dat je daar ook iets mee kunt. Fijne zondag!

  • @cristinaarnolfo165
    @cristinaarnolfo165 Год назад

    Hi! Just wanted to say congratulations on your new apartment. I just bought one myself with my husband and we will be moving there next fall. Your video was really inspiring. Thanks! I don't have suggestions as far as bedroom decor is concerned; I'm not that good at those kind of things😅. I hope you'll find some great inspo soon!Bye from Italy

  • @Celeste-new49
    @Celeste-new49 Год назад +1

    I'm so happy for you! Wise advice. Glad you chose to "live" the moving process too. take care