Update

My landlady Liv offered to sell the house to me for 575K. After trying all the angles, I find that I can't do it. I'm not so sure it's worth it or even want it anyway. The housing market in Seattle is finally slowing down, though not yet declining. However, a decline is predicted. In any case, it doesn't change the fact that I will not be buying this house and so will be looking for a new place to live soon. Just to make sure I don't want to live in Italy, I am heading there soon using frequent flyer miles from United. I'll be headed to London, Morocco, and then Bologna for several weeks to help my Dutch friend Marc on his house. Ideas for places to live: Sharing a big 4-5 bedroom house with my current neighbors, Rachel and Lyle, and perhaps Pauline. Moving to LA in a 2 bedroom apartment. ... Any other suggestions or leads would be appreciated!