*This post was originally published in February of 2007. I dusted it off while preparing for a client appointment and realized that very few people had read the original post.  I enjoyed this walk down 'memory lane' and hope that you will too.

Ahem...This is Your Home. Yes, I've been wanting to do this for awhile. 

Don't act so surprised to discover my voice, you're talking all the time inside of me. Now it's time for you to listen to what I have to say.  I'm aware that you have decided to leave me and move on.  Hey, I'm taking it a little hard right now, but that's OK.  There's a time for everything. 

Although change is never easy, I hold no hard feelings. Heaven knows we have shared many special moments and memories.  I've been there when you were up and I've hung in there with you when you've been down. We've celebrated victories and shared some tough stuff in defeat.  I've been around the block a few times; this isn't my first time on the market, but that fact doesn't make it any easier to say goodbye. 

Now, let's get down to business.  Like I said, I know you've decided to move and having done this before, I thought you might benefit from some tips.  First, please  don't make this any harder than it has to be.  After all, I'm the one who will have strange people trampling through me, critiquing my figure,... I mean structure and personality.  These strangers don't know I hear them when they make disparaging comments or pry into areas which are well, should I say kinda private.  I'm going to be the one jabbed and poked by inspectors and who knows who else.  Sooooo....let's be smart about how we go about this.

Please do me a favor and do your homework.  There's no reason to be uninformed about how much I'm worth.  Yes, I know I'm priceless...but honey it's almost over and we must both move on.  There are many FREE services from real estate professionals which you can take advantage of, but remember you get what you pay for.  Don't bore me with interminable interviews, decide on your top selections, get your recommendations and then do the job right with someone who knows what they're doing and can provide evidence to support their results.

Next, clean me up!  You & I hang out all the time, and we're comfortable together.  But, this is company and I like to look good.  I'm still pretty vain, that hasn't changed much since you first saw me and fell in love at first sight.  I'd prefer YOUbe critical with me than have strangers pick me apart.  Please get up close and very personal.  Where am I showing signs of wear and tear?  I'm a great lady, but a nip, tuck, or pick me up coat of paint will do wonders for my ah...personality.  Don't forget to clear all the clutter and junk which has stuffed up my airspace big time over our years together.  Give me room to breathe, after all even houses have their moments if you know what I mean.

Fix the stuff we both know needs attending to.  And for goodness sakes, be honest about my history on your Seller's Disclosure.  Don't make me an unwilling partner to any lying shenanigans!  Don't forget to spruce me up outside as well.  After all, I can only make one great first impression.  Yes, this is important to me...need I say it again...the vanity thing, surely you understand.

I'd also appreciate if you'd take some time to talk with me before you leave.  I love hearing about the good times that were shared within my walls.  I may not understand why you feel it necessary to leave, but I accept your decision.  They say houses don't talk, but we hold many things entombed within our walls. Remembering our times together helps me prepare to meet the new homeowners.  I want them to feel my welcome when they enter the door.  I want to fill their lives with love and laughter in the way I did yours.  You can help make this transition easier by taking down mementos of our special times together for you know that I will always be in your heart.  However, my new owners will need to create their own special moments within my space, so give them a clean slate to work with.

Lastly, know that I will always love you.  I hold your presence warm, tight and safe within my inner sanctum.  Even as I open my arms to once again welcome others who I hope will treat me well, your echos will still meander through the memories of my mind.  I'll find ways to share them; sometimes in unexpected fashion, but be assured most of your secrets will ALWAYS remain safe with me.

With Mixed Regards,

Your Home

© Audu Real Estate 2007  *updated August 2008

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