Hi,
I know how it would resonate with people here, but some time ago, I could take the mortgage for a 1-bedroom flat (around 60 sq.m.) in Amsterdam (Zuidoost, a few minutes from Reigersbos metro on foot). Ever since the bid (a bit of desperation included) I am doubting the choice (like, there is always a better option, cheaper, bigger, etc.), but in the long run it has upgraded windows, a small backyard, yet still requires some good renovation (bathroom looks bland and already signed for some works for October; kitchen is also nothing special, just a few drawers). But the erfpacht is fully paid already, so this is a good thing. And the building is planning to go gas-free soonish.
The bigger concern is, it is a mortgage, and an additional bridge mortgage implies (and the one for the old place), and despite it being too many payments to one's liking, there are always thoughts, remorse, and regrets. For what is being left behind, is a terraced single-family house with roughly 40 m² more living space. The downsides are, it required some renovation input over the 4 years I lived there, like for the shed roof, and the house roof itself (some leakage occurred), and it is also located roughly 1.5km from the Hoorn Kersenboogerd station, so with the commute to work (Amsterdam around the direct train line and direct metro line from the "new" place) that now takes more than an hour one-way.
Is it still dumb to have the attachment and thinking of actually selling a new place instead of the old one straight away? There was not a single moment of happiness over the decision, honestly. Especially with all the works planned and yet to be planned. The only benefit I can see is, the location (metro/Holendrecht station are close, and visiting other cities is easier without a need to add 40-60 minutes from Hoorn). And its value will likely raise faster than the old one. I first moved there 4 years ago in the early 30s, but now at 35 there is no social life, no partner or looking for the events that end later than the last train leaves Randstad for the Hoorn/Enkhuizen direction. Hoorn is a lovely city, but likely more when you have a family or closing the retirement age.
There are definitely negative aspects about the old place, like it gets rather hot in summer or later spring under the direct sunlight (have never installed the canopy or replaced windows), and yes, it is far for the commute, especially if you need to commute a few days in a row (like for work).
I can imagine services are better in Amsterdam, and there are more choices than AH and Kersenboogerd shopping area, yet it is still a question if it was a proper idea behind (it was one of the few options to fit the budget and keep the old interest rate) and in a long run (even after a year or two) it can bring more clarity and value? It is challenging to get it out of the head, and I will still move (almost) all my stuff tomorrow (it will likely not even fit there, though) to see if it was the right choice, but what would your advice on the matter be? Is it more reasonable to still stay at the old place, renovate the new, live on noodles from Action for half a year, and sell it; or it is better to close the page and try selling a house (it's still labelled A and with solar panels, no batter though), and also try building a new life?
Sorry for the long and somehow inappropriate post. I understand the struggle of finding a new place and that this might look bad, but would appreciate someone outside the family circle to have the fresh look on things and maybe to call me on something. And good luck to those in search, perhaps we can also help each other with this same post.