That's right.  I said are you having any fun?

OK, call me crazy.  I guess I'm just one of those irritatingly cheerful people who like to have fun with whatever mundane task I am tackling.  I am guilty of playing loud funky music while I vacuum, singing while doing the dishes, and dabbling in "the dusting game"  (my mother's invention - as you may imagine it worked like a charm on me as a child.)

Now I realize that selling your home is not exactly a mundane task.  Whether you have chosen to tackle the job on your own or through a Realtor, you are probably well aware of the imposition having your home on the market can be on your life.  So why not get organized and have a little fun.  Sometimes organization can be the key to keeping things on the light side and avoiding situations that will surely bring you down.

First, make sure that you have a system for recording showings that everyone in the household is aware of.  A centrally located calendar or clipboard will work great.  If you are working with a broker, make sure you are both clear on what type of notification you would like for showings.  Be flexible!  Remember, your goal is to sell your home, not to make potential buyers jump through hoops.  If you can accommodate a short notice showing, then by all means do it.  Just make sure that everyone in your household is aware of it so that you will not have any surprises. 

Second, make things easier on yourself by involving the entire household in maintaining an orderly home.  This is one of those critical times when you need them all to pitch in.  If more than one person is making the mess, then one person simply can not be responsible for cleaning it up.  Remember you are living as if you were on display in a fishbowl.  If everyone will be gone to work or school during the day, then make sure the house is picked up before you all go to bed.  Mornings can be hectic enough without having to add cleaning to the list.

Get all the dirty dishes at least into the dishwasher, wipe down the counters and bathroom vanity, and keep all clothes hanging in the closet or in dressers where they belong.  Maintaining a tidy state is easier than spending three hours trying to return a disaster area back into a clean home. 

If you seem to be having frequent showings, then before you leave in the morning, open all the blinds and leave the lights on.  The extra amount you may pay on your electric bill will be worth it when your home shows beautifully and sells faster!  While you are at it, spray a little of that air freshener stuff around before you leave.  NOTE:  Be careful with the plug in air fresheners, I've been warned by others that they may pose a fire risk in certain situations.

Maintaining your focus can also add to the fun.  Remind your family members that you have a household goal in mind.  To sell your house!  Look at this as a team effort and when your home sells, the whole team will feel accomplished.

The next time one of your friends or co-workers tries to spoil your fun or bring you down by asking "Have you sold your house yet?"  Think "Go Team" and ask them if they know of anyone looking in the area that you or your broker should call.  If you are not working with a broker make extra sure that you get the word out!  Check out craigs list (www.craigslist.com) and post your property.  Look for other on-line resources.  Remember, exposure is everything.

OK, after writing this, it still doesn't sound like that much fun, but it least it doesn't sound that daunting either.  The real fun comes when your home goes under contract quickly so that you can relax a little and enjoy the proceeds. $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Kristen Wheatley,  Client Care Coordinator

The Tanya Busch Team, Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine

34 Center Street    Auburn, ME 04210      207-689-9880

www.TanyaB.com

Yup, that's me on the left.