The Family Photo Album

You're getting ready for a family visit back home next week. Imagine this scenario as you take some snapshots of your home, inside and out, so you'll have pictures to show the folks.

You ask your family to stand by the front door as you take the first picture. Next, you position yourself for a shot of the kitchen. In order to get the entire room in the picture, you stand just outside the kitchen doorway in the dining room. The bedrooms are next, and then you finish up by taking the last shot of the family room.

Now you are showing the photos to your folks, and your explanation might sound like this:

"Oops! There's the front of the house – part of it anyway."

"This next one is our kitchen – just pretend those dirty dishes aren't there."

"Our bedroom is really quite large – pay no attention to the unmade bed."

"Uh-oh, I think I forgot to turn on the light – that's supposed to be the family room!"

Remember this story when you decide to sell your home. Just imagine how much more the family would have enjoyed your pictures if you hadn't had to apologize for every one of them. What do you suppose the folks back home thought?

The impression you make on your buyers during their first visit is critical. If they find everything in place, in good repair, and sparkling clean - your home will be a hit with everyone. Otherwise, well....