"We still have to live here!" Those fateful words that are uttered by almost every seller.

"We still have to live here!"  Those fateful words that are uttered by almost every seller.

Every time I hear those words I cringe deep inside!  I know that you have seven people crammed into a house built for four.  I know you didn't know your mother in law was going to get sick and move in when you bought your home.  I know you didn't plan on triplets this last time.  I know you had no idea your husband had to have three different video game systems or that he would pick up golf AND paintball.  I know you had no clue your wife would want to collect Longaberger baskets, Boyd's Bears AND keep her Barbie Doll collection from childhood.  Nobody would ever think that your child would HAVE to keep the four foot tall stuffed bear you won her at the local Carnival.....nobody plans on out growing their current home...but it happens.

When you out grow your home and come to the conclusion that it is time to move to a larger home, there are certain things that your real estate agent is going to ask you to do.  We know it is uncomfortable to have someone come into your home and suggest (highly urge with emphasis) that you remove the magnets from the fridge, yes even the one with your child's first report card.  We know that it is hard to keep the counters clear of toasters, coffee pots, utensils, cutting boards, etc.   We know it is difficult to vacuum the house every morning before going to work.  We definitely know how hard it is to make the bed (correctly) every morning.  We know your child will throw a fit when we suggest that you pack up 75% (or more) of their toys until moving day.  We understand (or try to) your hesitance in packing up your baskets, games, trinkets, Boyds Bears, Barbie Dolls, nude art, and toys. 

We really do get it.  But, (there is always a but) we want to get your house sold in the fastest possible time for the most amount of money.  To accomplish this goal we need your house as livable for the "new" family of four that wants to see how you lived before you out grew your house.  It is somewhat painful we know.  It is not easy to pack up the things you are used to living with for so long. 

Before you utter, "But we  have to live here" to your Real Estate Agent, know that by muttering those few short words, you might continue to live there if you don't heed their suggestions.  They do not want to hurt you, they really want your house to sell.  Heck, they want to get paid and the only way to get paid is to get your house sold!

Think about this blog the next time your agent makes a suggestion in regard to your home, they care, and they are just trying to help.