She Strengthens

Finding Solace in Fantasy: How Real Estate Apps Became My Sanctuary

As someone who thrives on control and planning, I was thrown for a loop when I was diagnosed with endometriosis four years ago. The chronic pain, fatigue, and uncertainty that came with it made it impossible for me to look beyond the present moment. My post-graduate plans dissolved, and I found myself living at home with my family, struggling to care for myself.

A Glimpse of Independence

One day, while browsing Zillow with my mom, I stumbled upon a listing for a condo in our neighborhood. As I scrolled through the pictures, I envisioned myself living there, cooking, and maybe even getting a dog. The independence it represented was a welcome respite from my current reality. It wasn’t a depressing reminder of what I couldn’t do; instead, it offered a much-needed escape.

Planning as Catharsis

Zillow soon became my go-to haven. I’d spend hours browsing apartments, calculating the salary I’d need to afford the rent, and imagining the life I’d lead. But as my illness persisted, the comfort I derived from planning began to wane. I needed a new escape, so I started searching for places I wanted to visit, like New Orleans, Nashville, and Greenwich. I created a collection of luxury properties on Zillow, which I’d flip through on bad pain days, adding to my favorites and imagining the life I’d lead in each one.

I’m Not Alone

I’m not the only one who finds solace in fantasy home shopping. Abbey Oldham, a television and video producer, says it’s an aspirational mental getaway that helps her cope with anxiety. Tina Vasquez, a journalist and researcher, turned to real estate websites after losing her job, finding comfort in envisioning a life where she could afford to buy a house. Reina Sultan, a freelance journalist, says it keeps hope alive for her, reminding her that maybe one day she’ll live in her dream home.

The Power of Escapism

While it’s easy to get caught up in the unattainable prices of these homes, the suspension of disbelief is part of the catharsis. For me, perusing Zillow never took the pain away, but it took me to a place far away from it. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the opposite of control isn’t spontaneity or surprise, but pain. And in those moments, a little frivolity and fantasy can go a long way.

My Favorite Hack

Since my diagnosis, I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some relief, but real estate websites and apps remain my trusted companion on bad pain and anxiety days. They provide a sense of fantasy and escapism that’s hard to find elsewhere. They’re the perfect outlet for my love of planning, allowing me to indulge in aesthetics and fantasy without being tied to reality. And for that, I’m eternally grateful.