Maintaining a house that is available for sale is an exhausting exercise. I knew it would be demanding, I’ve done it before. But I had forgotten just how much of a drain it can be.

First off, people want to come in at the drop of a hat. A quick phone call from my agent – “Hi, had a query call, can I show some people through in around, oh – 10 minutes?”- has become the norm.  I don’t mind really. I think our agents are fantastic and are wonderful. I like that they prefer private showings and often schedule back to back appointments with viewers. They don’t rush anyone, they take their time. Some couples and young families have been here for up to 90 minutes.

What it does mean though, is that I am not able to be home much on the days I am not at school.

Secondly, to me presentation is everything. And I am such a fuss bucket that I would rather be caught with dirty hair than a house that looks less than perfect, especially for an inspection. But it’s hard to vacuum, mop or mow when you are not home!  The surface areas have to remain clutter free. The stove clean, the bathrooms gleaming, the beds wrinkle free.  Every exit from the house includes hiding away the cat bowl, emptying the bins, picking up dog poo (!!!) and keeping logs smouldering in the fire place to create a warm, cozy feel.  Turn on the waterfall in the pool. Flip on the stereo to soft music.  Straighten everything and make sure the beds are gorgeous. Don’t forget to take the dog and his leash. A lot of work to head out for a loaf of bread!

Thursday afternoon a couple came through at 12.00.  Just based on calls of interest and appointments, we were not able to come back into he house until 7.30 that night. Yesterday, the 11.00 AM appointment turned into back to backs until 4.30.   I had to have geek boy up the coast for a camp by 6.30 PM. I have had my mother here on a vacation for a week before she flies to Norfolk Island – the poor woman hardly had time to unpack her suitcase. This morning I had to have her at the airport t 6.30 AM for her flight, then a call from the agent as we headed home meant we cruised around the neighbourhood until 12.00 today.

In between, when we are home, we hear the slow motor sound of people cruising by for a sticky beak. As they slow to a stop outside the house, geek boy runs in and yells “Stalkers!”

Of course he upside to this (and I am so happy to report there is an upside) is he ever growing liklehood of being presnted wih multiple offers, which is very good for us as the sellers. 

I am home right now and have washing in both the tumble dryer and the washing machine at the same time. I should not be wasting time typing – I have the bed linen to change but I am worried I’ll get caught mid sheet flap. I might just nip off and vacuum while I have time, then I can mop when it gets dark.

Here are some photos from the real estate listing. Would you stalk this house?