nearly a home owner...

so, after the various hurdles of having to look for a flat while otherwise engaged, of making a decision and of then making an offer, then another one (first one refused), i've now actually been at my sollicitor's to sign the first agreement, ie, saying i'm really willing to buy and they're really willing to sell. i was all apprehensive about meeting the current owners, and worried that they might not like me for some reason and refuse to sell, but they weren't even there. they won't, actually, even sign the papers until mid-august, as they're on holiday. which is technically to my advantage in some ways (French law, too many details), but could possibly also delay things further. anyway, this step has now been passed, the next is various visits to banks. yeah...hopping for joy... but, things are moving in the right direction, and, with a bit of luck, i should move in mid- to end-october. into MY place.