I sold my house without an agent. Ask me how (Aperol Spritz was involved)

March 10, 2026 — 6:30pm

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As soon as we started to think about downsizing, it became crystal-clear to me that I was temperamentally unsuited to dealing with real estate agents.

I hate being told what to do. I resent being told my taste in wall colours is “too much”. And I have no patience for those whose stories change each and every day. Especially that.

Turns out we didn’t need one anyway. All we needed to sell our house was my sister-in-law, a charming and hugely sociable older woman (OK, not older than me). She has a big bunch of friends she’s had since her school days. While we were away on holiday, she threw a party at our house (no need for bouncers at their stage in life. The most exciting thing they do is go for a second Aperol Spritz). During the party, someone offered to buy our house.

Better than someone. Our buyer has a grandbaby on the way and that grandbaby will be part of an intergenerational household. I’m a big believer in giving up your empty bedrooms and our grandkids moved out in January and took their parents with them.

Saved. Saved from dealing with real estate agents. In a rapidly cooling housing market, the last thing you want is........

© Brisbane Times