If These Walls Could Talk…
I really love houses. I know that seems obvious for a Realtor but my appreciation goes beyond the business side of what I do. I truly appreciate their spaces, how the sun lights up their rooms, their character, their quirks, and what gives them their unique personality. Once in a while, I come across a feature in a home that makes me wish I could meet the original owner. Or at the very least, the one who made his or her mark on the home (for better or worse!). Imagine my excitement when my wish came true this Summer – not once but twice!
The first time was when a man brought his wife, daughter and granddaughter through my open house. He shared stories like the time his brother tried to push him down the laundry chute in the bathroom. His eyes especially lit up when he explained the built-in desk in the living room. “That was a project for my high school shop class!” He was far from his teenage years but clearly shared the details of the project, how his teacher was a great mentor, how his dad helped him set the desk in place and so on. It was a joy to hear him relive memories within the walls of his childhood home.
Just two weeks later, at another home, I had the pleasure of meeting the previous owners’ daughters and son-in-law! Oh, the memories that poured out! They recalled laughter, fun gatherings, the projects they helped dad with, the baking in the kitchen at holidays and so much more.
In August, John and I sold a home that had been in the family for generations. This Winter we will have this privilege in another home (over 100 years in the same family!). Imagine the changes those homes witnessed in that time! I think of the news they heard broadcast, the evolution of technology, discussions that transpired over the dinner table.
And here I am, honored to help these homes start the next chapter in their lives. My hope is that if the walls could talk, they would say something along the lines of, “Thank you for the memories, for taking care of me all these years and making way for a new family to enjoy my charm!” It certainly has been my pleasure!
By Kristin Beise, RE/MAX Advantage Plus
