Is there anyway to fix this that not replacing the entire steering wheel? Steering wheel has scratches and scuffs I hate looking at. I know I can just slap a cover over it but was hoping for a better solution before giving up. Also can you guys recommend a good leather cleaner. Thanks in advance!
First-time buyer dilemma: Buy our co-op or find something new? (South suburbs of Chicago)
Family of four with two young boys. We currently live in a co-op owned by my MIL — my wife grew up here and is attached to it, but it’s just over 1,000 sq ft, one bathroom, and no private yard. It’s too small for us.
MIL is going through a divorce and has offered to sell us the co-op or asked us to move out. My wife wants to buy and renovate it to gain more space. I’d rather find a place that actually fits our needs from the start.
Our situation:
• Combined income just under $80K (\~$60K mine + wife’s part-time)
• South suburbs of Chicago
• First-time buyers
• Credit isn’t great
• Concerned about interest rates, property taxes, and home prices
We love the area — close to work, great neighbors — so staying nearby is ideal. I’m just worried we can’t afford anything better given everything stacked against us. Since I’ve never been through the buying process, I genuinely don’t know what to expect.
Any advice, insight, or words of encouragement are welcome. Thanks in advance.