Buffy was trying to diffuse the tension that was rising steadily between Spike and Giles. It didn't work, so Buffy decided that they needed to go look at the house Spike owned.
His family home had been being rented out ever since his mother's death. The renters had kept it in good shape, but the last family that had rented it had moved out a few years back. The house needed a bit of work. But all things considered, it was in excellent shape for a house of its age.
Spike hesitated, realizing he hadn't been in the house since the day his mother...well, he hadn't been in the house for a very long time. But Buffy and Dawn were so eager to see the house, for him to give them the tour.
So, he shook the memory off, pushed away the emotions, and started towards the house with the girls. They spent the rest of the day figuring out what needed to be done to the house before they moved into it. By the time they were done, the sun was starting to set.
Buffy was planning on going on patrol with some of the Newbies that needed training that night, so they returned to the compound so she could change. But as soon as they saw Willow, she decided to stay.