House For Sale

Think about if from the house’s perspective. After 28 years of grime, piles of expired coupons and broken patio furniture, it must feel good to finally get cleaned up. Over the past 3 months, walls were painted, windows were washed, and new carpet was installed. It cost $8000 to get the place ready, including the surprise repair for a floor crack ($600 to inspect, $250 to certify as safe, $40 for epoxy to fix). I gave my final blessing to put it on the market and hugged the real estate agent who coordinated the contractor circus. She deserves every penny of her eventual commission. Almost immediately the low ball investors – also known as bottom feeders – started calling. Next will be the lookie-loo neighbors. After that the brokers arrive – and then maybe actual prospective buyers will come around. I was so happy to drive away for the very last time. I thought about sending a note to the City of Santee, thanking them for their wide diversity of trash bins, my favorite being Walgreens and the YMCA.

Dad wanted to see pictures of his restored house – except for the garage. He couldn’t bear to alter the memory of his treasured man-cave. I understand. He’s doing great. Our visits are now a delightful mix of errands, doctor visits and scenic diversions while we discover local restaurants. We enjoy each other’s company, and he is smiling again. That’s more real than any real estate.