As my beloved, C.C., and I prepare to list our house for sale (it goes live on Monday!) before our big move to a Gulf Island, I’m neck-deep in the art of decluttering, clearing out, and staging.
Staging is all about creating an illusion of space, especially in smaller homes. But it’s more than that. Our realtor says our location and river view are the stars of the show (we’re not on a floodplain!), yet I still feel the pressure to create a flawless first impression. It’s like dressing for a job interview – your chance to shine.
The sales page with its numerous photos is like your carefully crafted resume – designed to land you an interview. Then, the main living area becomes your in-person presentation: open and inviting, just like your warm smile and genuine interest in the interviewer’s questions. Of course, it’s important to not only look the part, but to act it too—ensuring your “home” reflects the qualities that make it a perfect fit for the lifestyle the buyer envisions just like how you dress for success in an interview makes you a perfect fit for the workplace.
But what about the hidden depths? I’ve tackled every closet, drawer, and cubbyhole, making them presentable and tidy. Yet, just like the quirks beneath a perfectly curated resume, I hope potential buyers don’t dig too deep! We all have our little imperfections…(like the bottles and jars that usually reside beside the sink in the master bath that get tucked away in a drawer for viewings.)
Another early morning has me pondering these parallels, inspired by the quiet whisper of the muse. It’s a reflection on time passing, on moving forward, and on presenting the best version of ourselves – or our homes – to the world.
Let’s see if this resonates with our potential buyers on Monday. Wish us luck!
The poem was written one early morning when I arose at 4 and heeded the muse’s urgings. Words flowed in the silent beauty of dawn’s rosy glow slowly seeping across the horizon.
Dare Boldly 
Dear Louise, I wish all luck and success as this is a dream you both share.
After all this cleaning and preparation for the presentation I can’t see that anyone
cannot be charmed.
Like most here I have gone through selling homes. It is emotional in many way and exciting as well. Have you found a place to move to.? To make a new dream home.
All the best 🦋🌻🐦⬛
Miriam
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Thank you Miriam. And yes, it is emotional and exciting. We are moving to one of the Gulf Islands of Vancouver — my husband has COPD and breathing is easier at sea level — plus.. 🙂 I’ll be closer to my grand children. ❤ 🙂
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Dear Louise,
I was surprised but very happy to read your exciting news this morning! How wonderful to begin a new adventure in one of the most beautiful paces in our country. I enjoyed your online presentation as well as our exchange of messages. I’m sorry I won’t have the opportunity to meet you in person for coffee and a visit.
I’m curious how Beau reacted to the news?😊 I look forward to continue reading your messages on Facebook.
Best Wishes,
Linda
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Hi Linda — Thank you! And who knows… perhaps we’ll get that coffee in before I leave — Beau would love to meet you (as would I) 🙂 and he’s more confused right now by all the activity and the constantly having to vacate the house! 🙂
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Louise, I will miss our occasional conversations over coffee at Annie’s !
All the best setting up home on an Island. Keep in touch and continue to delve into your deep well of creativity. My best to you, June1949
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Dear June! I will too — I’d love to get one last one in before we go – perhaps in late August?
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Me too! Have you been to the ARTISTS LOUNGE just off 20 Ave and 18 street NW. ? Fun place for cocktails one evening! 😊
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Me too! Have you been to the ARTISTS LOUNGE just off 20 Ave and 18 street NW. ? Fun place for cocktails one evening! 😊
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I think the market is still quite vibrant there, just like your poem and your post. I am certain it will go quickly. Which brings more change, and while you are looking forward to it, there will still be turmoil.
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Ah yes — we’ve had six showings in two days — but no offers — we’re still very optimistic as the home shows well and the location is lovely! Especially for inner city!
Thanks Bernie. I have lived in Calgary for over 40 years. I’ve built my family and my life here. It is a big shift and at the same time exciting – and not without its turmoil. ❤
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