She might be a Martha stewart role model but I can tell you she would be a real estate agents dream.<VBG> I am so tired of people saying that THAT time isn't convenient. . . and no,you can't have the house on agent open house. . . and then have the nerve to complain about the lack of showings and why isn't his house selling!!! I have a brochure that I hand to people as I list their house that mentions many of Pat's suggestions. My only suggestion from her list is I like the Vendor to leave the house. . . have the cookies and the candies sitting out. . . .but don't be there. Purchasers are not company and lots of them feel uncomfortable being in your house anyway and looking in your closets (that's why WE open the doors to point out the size, organizer, whatever). If they come back for a second showing then you or your agent could ask if they would like you to be there. (Usually to answer questions. . . re kids in the neighbourhood, etc) The old "You don't get a second chance to make a first impression" really applies and it starts as they drive up to the house. Hope Rosemary has a good Open House today. Jill Fyffe c21 > This proves it, folks. MaPat is Martha Stewart's role model <bg> > > Catharine (ducking from MaPat) > > > -----Original Message----- > From: owner-gardeners@globalgarden.com > [mailto:owner-gardeners@globalgarden.com] On Behalf Of asidv@fbg.net > Sent: Saturday, October 03, 1998 12:01 PM > To: gardeners@globalgarden.com > Subject: [gardeners] Rosemary's house > > It is an old formula, but having sold houses using it -- and for my > price -- consider doing the following -- keeping in mind that you > are making a "stage setting" for a lifestyle the buyer hopes to > duplicate. (AND that in love, war and real estate, image is often > more important than full disclosure.) > > a. Buy a bunch of freezer bread dough. Divide into small hunks. > b. When a shopper is coming, pop one of those hunks in the oven to > create the scent of "home." > c. Never draw attention to your garden. If asked about it, say, "Oh, > that? I do have a junior high school boy who comes by once in a while > to mow. Actually, it takes care of itself." > d. Have a pot or two (NO MORE) of a somewhat exotic something > by the front door. Say to shopper, "Wasn't it nice of the last person etc