The first rule of homeownership is ‘Protect your peace.’ 

However, first-time home buyers accustomed to the ramshackle lifestyle of landlord specials, lousy neighbors, and painted-over electrical sockets hardly realize the importance of their home space. And although many of us still dream of homeownership, once the day arrives that we’re handed a set of keys that are our very own, we don’t know what to do with it. 

All we know for sure is that this home is ours—and only ours. 

So when the first-time homeowners in this next story were approached by the majority of their friends and family with tidings and congratulatory remarks, they were flabbergasted when they realized that not all of their acquaintances saw their home purchase as a solo victory.