Selling the White House?

It’s Election Day, finally. Whoever is elected president today has a lot of work ahead of them getting ready to assume one of the most demanding jobs in the world; but at least they won’t have to worry about housing. One of the perks of being the president, or vice president for that matter, is that the gig comes with housing.

(AP Photo)

I checked out the official White House website to find out more about the president’s house. Among the facts I learned, the White House has 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, 412 doors, 147 windows, 28 fireplaces, eight staircases, and three elevators. The first president to move in was John Adams, sometime in 1800. Theodore Roosevelt actually dubbed it the White House in 1901. It really is an amazing building with a rich history, which got me thinking about what it would be like to try to sell the White House, hypothetically of course, and what the listing would look like in the classifieds?

Maybe something like: “Handsome estate with well manicured lawns. Easy commute to many government offices. Perfect for entertaining, kitchen with five full-time chefs can serve dinner for up to 140 guests or hors d’ouevres for 1,000. Property also includes private tennis court, jogging track, pool, theater, and bowling alley. It’s a must see.”

But then again the house is over 200 years old. Numerous presidents and their wives have made changes to the house. Over the years it also sustained damage in two fires. It’s likely the building requires expensive renovations or restoration work. And another maintenance consideration: it takes 570 gallons of paint to cover the White House’s exterior.

There are lots of pros and cons about this property. Anyone else want to take a crack at writing a classified ad for the White House? I’m sure it won’t be difficult to improve on my attempt.

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