July, 2023

Hey all,

This month, I set out to write about cleaning your home. Sounds fun.

After several days of summer writer's block, I wondered if I could get a nudge from ChatGPT. 

If you don't know, it's AI (artificial intelligence) with the ability to write about anything you ask.

It feels like cheating, so I've resisted. Plus, I thought, bah, how could a computer be funny or know more about real estate than me?

Gulp.

So, with a knot in my stomach, I've decided to let you be the judge, comparing what I wrote with what AI wrote.

Here we go!

Curtis vs. ChatGPT on Cleaning Your Home After You Move Out. 

First, what I wrote:

The Department of Cleanliness Just Didn't Call

Everyone knows you should clean your home before you list it. It's gross when you don't, and you'll sell it for less money.

And, just as important, you should leave a clean home for your buyers after you move out. 

But that's not what always happens...

Last winter, I was the listing agent for a lovely couple, a referral from a past client, which I appreciated. 

I'd never met them. We spoke on the phone and arranged to meet at their house. I cruised by the day before to get a look from the outside and prepare for our meeting. North Regina, nice place, nice area, the price range was in the low 400s.

When we met, they had lots of questions for me. What's my house worth, how much do Realtors charge, and what should I do to get my home ready to sell?

As we were talking, I was looking around the room. And it was dirty :( 

Pet hair everywhere, dishes piled high, dirty windows, even dirty walls. It was surprising (to say the least) for a newer house in a nice area and a professional couple, no kids.

As gently as possible, I told them they needed to shine 'er up! Buyers are judging your home the second they walk in, I said! If it's not clean, they'll wonder what else you're neglecting. Does the furnace get maintained? Eaves cleaned? We don't want them to get the impression you neglect your house!

And they listened, to a certain extent. I think they emptied the garbage on the day we listed. Anyway, not very clean at all.

We managed to find a buyer, which was a relief. The buyer's agent, to his credit, noticed the lack of cleanliness and wrote a line in his offer requiring the seller to have the home professionally cleaned before possession.

After they had moved out (and out of town), and the day before the new owners took possession, the cleaners arrived. I met them at the house to let them in.  

I small-talked my way up the walk, opened the door, and...boo. It looked like the sellers had grabbed everything up and slipped away in the night. They hadn't vacuumed, wiped or even flushed. 

The poor cleaners worked all day–two people, eight hours each. And it still was only kinda clean after all that work.

I let the sellers know we could still use a little boost. Maybe bring the cleaners back for one more round? They told me their part of the deal was done—a professional cleaner was hired as per the contract. Nothing more was required.

I said, alrighty. Nothing I could do now, although I wish there were. 

Possession was at noon—my phone rang at 12:10, buyers agent. Not happy, not at all. 

They wanted a cleaner back in there until they did it right, or they would sue.

So, What Was The Seller's Obligation, And Do The Buyers Have a Case? 

As lousy as this situation is, and Realtors see it plenty, there isn't much a buyer can do. We can't send a referee out to throw a flag, and there is no provincial department cleanliness.

Unless junk is strewn everywhere, the toilets are plugged, or meat is rotting on the counter, you don't have much of a case.

I've learned over the years that one person's idea of clean differs from another's. If there are streaks on the mirror, is it still clean? If there is a stain on the toilet that you can't get out, is it still clean?

And burning a bunch of cash on suing someone over dust on the ceiling fans, a pile of Bounce sheets behind the dryer, and some 2"x4"'s in the garage doesn't make sense.

So, it's mostly a moral obligation, isn't it. You should do the right thing.

Remember, it's a most exciting day for some lovely people that just unloaded a pile of money for your house. Carve out a full day to clean.

Pretend you'll be there on possession day, handing them the keys and seeing their faces as they walk through the door. Better clean up.

CB

Now It's ChatGPT's Turn!

My prompt was, "Write me a 300-word essay on cleaning your home for the new owners after it's sold."

Here is what I got, and it took the AI (not exaggerating) less than two seconds to write it. And it's spot on. I agree with all of it.

Cleaning your home for the new owners after it's sold is not only a courteous gesture but also a way to leave a positive impression and ensure a smooth transition. As the previous homeowner, taking the time to thoroughly clean and tidy up the property showcases your respect for the new occupants and helps them feel welcomed into their new space. This 300-word essay delves into the significance of this act and offers practical tips to accomplish it effectively.

When selling your home, the final steps of the process are just as crucial as the initial ones. By cleaning the house before handing it over to the new owners, you demonstrate thoughtfulness and consideration. A well-maintained and spotless property conveys that you have taken care of the house during your time there and sets an excellent example for the incoming occupants.

To start, prioritize cleaning the essential areas, such as the kitchen and bathrooms. Ensure all surfaces are wiped down, floors are mopped, and appliances are sparkling. Remember to clean inside cupboards and drawers, removing any remnants of your time in the house. Dust and vacuum all rooms, paying attention to corners and baseboards. Cleaning windows and mirrors can make a significant difference in brightening up the home and providing a clear view of the surroundings.

In addition to the interior, do not forget about the exterior spaces. If applicable, mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and weed the garden beds. Clear the driveway and walkways of debris, and if you have a pool, make sure it is clean and inviting. Caring for the exterior shows that you value the overall presentation of the property, and it allows the new owners to step into their new home without immediate maintenance concerns.

While cleaning, consider leaving a small welcome package for the new owners. A handwritten note expressing your well-wishes and leaving behind some useful household items or local recommendations can make the transition feel warmer and more personalized.

In conclusion, cleaning your home for the new owners after it's sold is an essential step in the process of moving on from one chapter of your life to another. It reflects your respect for the new occupants and creates a positive and lasting impression. By meticulously cleaning both the interior and exterior spaces, you ensure that the property is presented in its best possible condition. Moreover, a thoughtful welcome package adds a touch of warmth to the entire experience. Ultimately, taking the time to clean your home for the new owners demonstrates your consideration, leaving a lasting impact on them as they begin their journey in their new abode.

Pretty impressive, right? Less than two seconds to spit that at me...

So, who ya got? Me or ChatGPT? 

Spot The Chat

Have you ever noticed that when you're considering buying a new car, you start to see that same make, model and colour everywhere? Never noticed them before, and now, wham, on every corner.

That happened to me with ChatGPT. Once you're aware of it, you can spot it easily!

Here is a real estate write-up from a listing I just sold. The listing agent (not me) clearly used ChatGPT:

"Public Remarks:  Welcome to 179 Froom Crescent! This charming home is incredibly well cared for and exudes an unmistakable sense of love and pride throughout. It is the perfect space for a family, offering plenty of recreational opportunities in the spacious basement. The kitchen boasts an abundance of cabinet and counter space, allowing for easy organization and meal preparation; appliances included. The large attached dining area makes family meals a breeze. Two spacious bedrooms and a 3 piece bath also accompany the main floor. Downstairs boasts open space for the kids to play as well as a 2nd 3 piece bath and storage area; basement freezer included. Outside you'll find a single detached garage providing both convenience and security; as well as a ready-to-use garden area and patio to enjoy the outdoors. This home provides a harmonious blend of practicality, warmth, and ample space for a growing family to create lasting memories. Contact the listing agent for your private viewing today!"

How can you tell it's AI? Here is a hint—real people don't say basements provide "recreational opportunities." lol

Listing Pic Fail of The Month!

Looks like it's the guy operating the drone that's in the shot 😂 And it wasn't me that put the circles over their faces either—it was posted on MLS this way!

I call this one "Im'ma grab my drone and a couple of Slurpees. Meet you at the house in 10!"

That's all for now. Chat at you later :)

CB