This looks pretty great, Sharon. And remember that if you can see through THEIR junk and still like the house, then it's possible for people to see through YOUR junk and like your house. Also, many people get a positive feeling from seeing books and cats - surely you do. Don't let your real estate agent bully you into believing that only a perfect, decorated, fiendishly neat house is going to sell. Yes, you may make it easier for the AGENT (a quicker sale and less work for her) but it won't necessarily make a difference to your bottom line. Remember that when someone tells you to do something for your own good, then they probably have a financial interest in the results.