I'm also thinking of visiting Chatt again between Christmas and MLK day since I'll be in the US.

If you don't tap into that equity, it is nothing more than a trophy...and you are operating under conditions in Explanation #1...which is behind for over 7 years.3 - Now, if your goal is to accumulate equity, and access it by selling it when the cash is needed, then you have to look at the numbers again, and realize that until you actually do sell it, you are losing money.  

Had decided that we would hold him responsible for rent until rented (I think will be very quick, hopefully 1-2 weeks only reason not one is christmas). 

I've asked myself, should I splurge on these "overpriced items" (depending on one's interpretation), as my Christmas gift?

Well you have to understand that people tend to associate wealth with being some cigar smoking fat lard with trophy wife and mistresses with big mansions and at least 2 private jets.  

A plumber came over on Christmas day.

First of all, Merry Christmas!

I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and reach out if you want to know anything on my side

Fix up took a month, however, because I was lazy, it was right between Thanksgiving and Christmas, the weather was cold and crappy and I was in a bad mood, among other reasons.  

Christmas valley3.