Home Selling Archives - Page 2 of 12 -

November 15, 2023August 2, 2024

Winter Staging Secrets

Key Facts:

Winter staging accentuates the cozy and inviting aspects of a home, enhancing its appeal.
Strategic lighting and warm color schemes create a comforting atmosphere for buyers.
Staged homes in winter can stand out in the market, attracting serious interest.

A Season of Opportunity for Sellers

Staging your home during the winter months presents a wonderful opportunity to showcase its cozy and inviting features. In the competitive real estate market, effective staging is key to not only enhancing your home’s appeal but also making it a standout choice for potential buyers.

Creating a Memorable First Impression & Enhancing Curb Appeal

The journey of captivating potential buyers begins the moment they approach your home. A well-lit path to a welcoming entrance, free of clutter, sets a positive tone. Curb appeal is crucial, even in winter. Maintain a neat exterior, touch up any peeling paint, and consider adding hardy plants for a touch of green. These small efforts can have a significant impact on a buyer’s first impression.

Illuminating with Warm Lighting and Rich Colors

As winter days are shorter, the role of lighting in staging becomes pivotal. Utilize warm, soft lighting to create an inviting ambiance throughout the home. Incorporate table lamps, floor lamps, and dimmer switches to enhance the cozy feel, especially during evening viewings. Complement this with a palette of warm, earthy tones and rich textures. Soft throw blankets, plush pillows, and tastefully chosen decor can transform a space into a haven of comfort and warmth.

Staging Living Areas for Comfort and Connection

Focus on staging living areas as spaces of comfort and relaxation. A well-presented fireplace, with neatly stacked logs and a clean hearth, can become the centerpiece of a living room. Even without a fireplace, arranging furniture to encourage conversation and social interaction can create a warm, inviting atmosphere. This is also an opportunity to weave a narrative through your home, with each room telling a part of the story, whether it’s a cozy reading nook or a dining room set for a family gathering.

Appeal to the Senses and Incorporate Seasonal Touches

Engaging the senses is a subtle yet powerful staging technique. Introduce winter-friendly scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or pine to subtly enhance the home’s appeal. This sensory experience, combined with tasteful seasonal decor, can add charm without overwhelming the space. Remember, the goal is to complement the home’s natural ambiance, not overpower it.

Understanding Real Estate Market Trends

The winter season often sees less competition among sellers, making it a strategic time to list your home. Buyers tend to have more urgency, and a well-staged property can stand out, attracting serious interest. Attention to detail, from ensuring light fixtures are dust-free and in working order to updating old fixtures, can create an impression of quality and care.

Maximizing Your Home’s Winter Appeal

In a competitive market, every detail in staging your home counts. By embracing the unique aspects of winter and presenting your home as a warm and welcoming space, you can captivate potential buyers. Contact us today to learn more about maximizing your home’s value, selling your property, and leveraging expert staging techniques for success. Let us guide you in navigating the winter real estate market with confidence.

Selling, not buying? See our post on Holiday Home Selling for tips!

October 17, 2023August 2, 2024

Inherited Estate Property

Key Takeaways:

Discover how our tailored solutions and expert guidance can transform the sale of your inherited estate into a seamless and stress-free experience.
From emotional ties to paperwork, how we provide effective solutions to overcome them.
Find out why our comprehensive services, including staging and marketing, set us apart in ensuring your property is sold for top dollar.

Selling Your Inherited Estate Property with Expert Help

When faced with the complex task of selling an inherited estate property, the emotional and logistical obstacles don’t have to be daunting. However, you’re not alone on this journey, and we’re here to provide effective solutions that make the process smooth and stress-free, whether your priority is a quick sale or maximizing the property’s value. In this blog post, we’ll explore how our tailored solutions and expert guidance can assist you in selling your estate property with confidence.

A Team You Can Trust

We understand that each estate sale is unique, and we customize our approach to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re in a hurry to sell or aiming to maximize the property’s value, we’ve got you covered. Our comprehensive services span from sale and disposition assessment to inventory management, repairs, and marketing.

Solving Any Challenges You May Encounter

Selling an inherited estate property comes with its fair share of challenges, including:

Emotional Attachments: Dealing with a property full of memories can be emotionally challenging. Our solutions help you navigate this process.
Decluttering: Wondering what to do with all the items in the house? We have effective strategies for decluttering.
Home Repairs: Does the property need repairs or renovations to fetch a good price? We provide solutions to make your property market-ready.
Paperwork: We streamline the legal and financial paperwork with efficient solutions.

How We Provide Effective Solutions

Tailored Solutions

Our services are adaptable and designed to cater to your specific needs during this time. Whether it’s helping you decide which repairs will add the most value to your home or recommending trusted vendors, we’ve got you covered with practical solutions that align with your goals.

Expert Guidance

We’re not just about selling your property; we’re committed to making the process as smooth as possible. We’ll address all your questions and provide guidance every step of the way, ensuring you have the solutions you need.

Staging and Marketing

First impressions matter. We provide effective solutions by helping you stage your home to attract the right buyers and employing targeted marketing strategies to give your property the visibility it deserves.

You’re Not Alone

Don’t undertake this journey in isolation. Contact us today to discuss your needs, goals, and timeline. Our primary objective is to provide you with a seamless and successful home selling experience. We allow you to concentrate on what matters most during this challenging time.

Take the Next Step in Selling Your Inherited Estate

Selling an inherited estate property doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Have our experienced team by your side. Confidently navigate the process, overcome the emotional and logistical challenges, and Maximize Your Home Sale with the Power of Equity. Contact us today to take the first step toward a seamless and successful home selling experience.

October 1, 2023April 24, 2024

Home Equity: Maximize Your Home Sale

Home Equity: Key Points

Understanding your equity can be a game-changer when deciding to sell your home, especially in today’s market of high mortgage rates.
Nearly 70% of homeowners have significant equity, making it an opportune time to consider selling.
Our expert real estate team is here to guide you through the process, offering free assessments and answering any questions you may have.

What is Home Equity and Why Does It Matter?

Equity is more than just a financial and real estate term; it’s your ticket to new opportunities. In simple terms, equity is the difference between your home’s current market value and the remaining balance on your mortgage. But why should you care? Well, with today’s real estate market, understanding your home equity can be a game-changer when you decide to move.

The Equity Boom: A Silver Lining in Today’s Market

couple waving at laptop on virtual meeting

You’re not alone if you’re hesitant to sell your home due to high mortgage rates. However, there’s good news. According to data from ATTOM and the Census, nearly 68.7% of homeowners have either paid off their mortgages or have at least 50% equity in their homes. That’s right—almost 70% of homeowners are sitting on a goldmine!

How Understanding Your Equity Can Ease the Selling Process

Knowing your home equity can remove a lot of the uncertainty around selling your home. With significant amounts, you’ll have more flexibility in choosing your next home, negotiating deals, and even covering moving expenses. And the best part? Our expert real estate team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Leveraging Equity: Your Hidden Asset

Understanding all the savings you’ve put into your home isn’t just about knowing numbers; it’s about leveraging this asset to your advantage. With our expertise, we can help you strategize on how to use your equity for a down payment on a new home, or even as a financial cushion for future investments. It’s not just about selling your home; it’s about planning your financial future.

Take the Next Step: Unlock Your Home Equity Today

Ready to unlock the potential of your home equity? Don’t navigate this journey alone. Contact our expert real estate team today for a free assessment or with any questions you may have. Your future home awaits!

September 1, 2023April 24, 2024

Fall Curb Appeal: 8 Home Staging Tips for Enhancing Interior Charm

Key Facts:

The last months of the year present a unique opportunity to enhance your home’s fall curb appeal as summer transitions to autumn.
Effective home staging can significantly expedite the selling process and attract potential buyers.
Incorporating autumn-themed decorations, enhancing curb appeal, and creating a cozy interior are essential for a successful fall home sale.

As the vibrant hues of summer start to fade, and the crisp embrace of fall takes over, the real estate market experiences a seasonal shift. If you’re planning to sell your home this fall, now is the perfect time to capitalize on the changing ambiance and create a warm, inviting space that potential buyers will fall in love with. In this article, we’ll explore some practical home staging tips to ensure a quick and successful sale, all while embracing the unique charm of the autumn season.

1. Embrace the Autumn Aesthetic:

With the end of summer in sight, it’s essential to capture the cozy and welcoming essence of fall. Consider incorporating seasonal decorations like pumpkins, gourds, and autumn wreaths on your front porch and throughout the interior. A tasteful arrangement of autumn colors can instantly add warmth and character to your home.

2. Enhance Fall Curb Appeal:

First impressions matter, and your home’s exterior sets the tone for what’s inside. Rake up fallen leaves, trim overgrown bushes, and ensure the walkway is clear. Planting a few fall flowers, such as mums or pansies, can inject a burst of color into your front yard. Make sure outdoor lighting is in good condition, as prospective buyers may visit during darker hours.

patio with string lights adds fall curb appeal

3. Declutter and Depersonalize:

As you transition from summer to fall, take the opportunity to declutter and depersonalize your living spaces. Pack away summer-specific items like beach towels and bright outdoor furniture. Tidy up countertops, shelves, and surfaces to create a sense of space, allowing potential buyers to envision their belongings in the home.

4. Cozy Up the Interiors:

Incorporate cozy textures and warm tones to evoke a sense of comfort. Layer throw blankets and cushions in neutrals and autumn colors on sofas and beds. Consider adding a soft area rug to anchor living spaces. Lighting also plays a crucial role; opt for soft, warm lighting to create an inviting atmosphere.

5. Highlight the Fireplace:

If your home has a fireplace, now is the time to showcase it. Arrange seating around the fireplace to emphasize its coziness. Place a tasteful centerpiece on the mantle to draw attention to this appealing feature.

6. Scent of the Season:

Appeal to multiple senses by infusing your home with subtle scents of fall. Simmer a pot of mulled spices on the stove or use scented candles in apple, cinnamon, or pumpkin fragrances. Pleasant aromas can create an emotional connection with potential buyers.

7. Maximize Natural Light:

As daylight hours decrease, make the most of natural light during showings. Keep curtains open and trim back any foliage that might obstruct windows. Well-lit rooms feel more spacious and inviting. From the outside, the long, golden light of autumn adds a very special fall curb appeal, the allure of the cozy interior that waits within.

8. Tackle Maintenance Tasks for Fall Curb Appeal:

Autumn is a great time to address any maintenance issues. Clean out gutters, fix any leaks, and ensure that your heating system is in optimal condition. A well-maintained home signals to buyers that they won’t have to worry about hidden problems.

pumpkins with candles is the epitome of fall curb appeal

Capture the Season’s Magic for a Swift Home Sale

By embracing these home staging tips, you can create a home that resonates with potential buyers. As you welcome visitors into a space that reflects the warmth and comfort of the season, you’re crafting an inviting narrative that potential buyers will find irresistible. Your home’s story, combined with the allure of fall curb appeal, will speak volumes and leave a lasting impression on those who walk through the door. Following these home staging tips will not only make your property more appealing but also increase its chances of selling quickly during this transitional time. Contact us today to start your home selling journey!

For tips on curb appeal for other seasons, see our posts on Spring Curb Appeal and Winter Staging Secrets.

August 2, 2023June 18, 2024

Unlocking the Power of Millennial Buyers: A Guide for Home Sellers

Key Facts:

Understand the growing influence of millennial buyers in the real estate market.
Leverage a strong online presence to attract tech-savvy millennials to your property.
Showcase lifestyle benefits and adaptable home features to captivate millennial homebuyers.

Unlocking Millennial Homebuyer Opportunities

The millennial generation is rapidly emerging as a dominant force in home buying. There are incredible opportunities for us to tap into this growing demographic. We are thrilled to share how we can work together to effectively market your property to these dynamic and influential buyers.

Why Millennial Buyers Matter

Born between the early 1980s and the mid-1990s, millennials are the largest generation in the workforce today. Their preferences and lifestyle choices significantly impact the real estate market. Many have reached a stage where they are settling down, starting families, and looking for their dream homes. Understanding their desires and priorities is crucial for us as sellers aiming to maximize your home’s appeal to this vibrant demographic.

Embrace the Digital Realm

In today’s tech-driven world, a strong online presence is essential for reaching millennials. As your real estate agents, we’ll leverage cutting-edge marketing tools and social media platforms to showcase your property in the best light. With high-quality photos, we’ll ensure your home stands out among the digital crowd. We’ll craft compelling narratives around your property, ensuring that its unique features shine through the online medium, captivating potential buyers.

Highlight Lifestyle Benefits

millennial girl smiling at park with dogs

Millennials are looking for homes that align with their desired lifestyle. From emphasizing the proximity to trendy urban centers to showcasing local parks and recreational spots, we’ll paint a vivid picture of the experiences they can enjoy if they choose your home. Highlighting the neighborhood’s vibrant culture and convenient amenities will create a sense of belonging and allure for millennial buyers. We will help them envision their future in your property.

Create the Perfect Home Office Space

With remote work becoming the new normal, a dedicated home office space is highly appealing to millennial buyers. Strategically accentuate flexible workspaces in your home to cater to their evolving work-from-home needs. This will make your property a top choice. By showcasing the versatility of such spaces, we can demonstrate how your home is adaptable to their professional and personal lifestyles.

Harness Millennial Buyers for Your Home Sale

Selling your home to the millennial generation is an exciting endeavor, and we are here to be your trusted guides throughout the process. We bring expertise in digital marketing strategies, an in-depth understanding of millennial preferences, and the dedication to making your home appeal to this growing demographic. Together, let’s unlock the power of millennial buyers and position your property for success in the ever-evolving real estate market!

Are you ready to take the next step? Reach out to us today, and let’s create a winning marketing strategy that speaks directly to the hearts of millennial homebuyers!

An inviting garden and green-space is appealing to buyers of any generation.

July 1, 2023June 18, 2024

Unveiling the Best Timeline to Buy or Sell Your Home

Key Facts:

Personal circumstances such as rising rent, divorce, downsizing, or relocation often trigger the need to buy or sell a home.
A dedicated real estate team offers personalized guidance based on local trends and personal situations, making the buying or selling process more manageable.
Every real estate journey is unique, shaped by your dreams, your timeline, and your local market.

As each season unfolds, the narrative of the real estate market changes, stirring homeowners and buyers to contemplate: Is this the best time to buy or sell a house? While national news can paint a broad picture, the reality is often more nuanced and personal. Whether you’re dealing with rising rent costs, going through a divorce, needing to downsize, or facing a job relocation, your individual circumstances significantly influence your real estate decisions. Our expert real estate team is here to guide you through these personal and local considerations. Let’s dive deeper.

For Homeowners

Selling a home is more than a financial transaction; it’s a significant life event. It may be triggered by various circumstances – a growing family needing more space, a newly empty nest prompting a downsize, a job change requiring relocation, or a shift in your personal life like divorce. Timing it right is essential.

We’re here to offer personalized, data-driven advice tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. Our deep understanding of local trends and conditions empowers us to help you make informed decisions. Our goal is to help you sell your home at the right time for the maximum possible return, whatever your circumstances may be.

Reaching out to us allows you to:

Leverage our in-depth understanding of the local market
Obtain a professional, accurate valuation of your home
Get strategic advice on when and how to list your property for optimal results

For Buyers (First-Time and Seasoned Alike)

Whether you’re moving from renting to owning due to increasing rental costs, or you’re a seasoned home buyer looking for a change, the process of buying a home can seem daunting.

Our mission is to transform this journey into a seamless and enjoyable experience. We believe that the “right” time to buy a home is not a one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, it’s influenced by your financial readiness, personal circumstances, and local market conditions.

By choosing to work with us, you will:

Gain a clear understanding of the local real estate market, personalized to your timeline
Receive assistance in determining what you can afford, identifying areas that align with your lifestyle and budget
Be empowered to make decisions that cater to your specific homeownership goals

Embracing Your Unique Journey

Every homeowner, every buyer, every property, and every local market is unique, as are the personal circumstances that lead you to buy or sell a home. Our commitment as your trusted real estate team is to navigate these unique factors together with you. We strive to understand your goals and dreams deeply, and help you make the most informed decision on when to buy or sell a home.

Don’t let national averages or headlines determine your real estate decisions. Reach out to us today to discuss your specific circumstances, and let’s start your unique real estate journey together.

Your dreams, your timeline, your local market – these are the elements that should dictate your real estate choices. We’re here to make sure that they do.

Every buyer’s and seller’s timeline starts with the local real estate conditions.

June 15, 2023June 18, 2024

Embracing the Power of Homeownership: Celebrating National Homeownership Month

National Homeownership Month is here, and it’s a perfect time to celebrate the many joys and rewards of owning a home. As your dependable real estate team, we’re here to champion this significant month with you, providing the necessary guidance to make your homeownership journey a delightful experience.

In this blog, we discuss:

The benefits of knowing the value of your current home.
A roadmap for those aspiring to become homeowners.
Our commitment as a real estate team to make your journey to homeownership enjoyable and successful.

Homeowners: Unleashing the Power of Your Home

Know Your Home’s Value

As a homeowner, you form the backbone of our communities. Your home isn’t just a building – it’s the place where memories are made, lives are lived, and dreams are nurtured. During National Homeownership Month, we honor your contribution to the vitality of our neighborhoods.

Understanding your home’s worth offers several advantages:

Enables informed decisions on refinancing, home equity loans, or potential selling.
Helps you build a robust financial strategy around your most valuable asset.
Allows you to monitor and capitalize on market trends effectively.

As a dedicated real estate team, we offer complimentary home valuations. Reach out to us today to schedule your free home valuation and unlock your home’s potential.

Aspiring Homeowners: Make Your Homeownership Dreams a Reality

couple shaking hands with real estate agent

Your Dream, Our Commitment

If you’re looking to own a home, National Homeownership Month is an excellent opportunity to take your first steps towards this rewarding goal. Owning a home isn’t an exclusive privilege, it’s an achievable aspiration, thanks to numerous accessible programs for first-time homebuyers.

Embarking on the homeownership path can be an exciting adventure, especially with the right guidance. Here’s how our real estate team will guide you:

We’ll help you understand the range of financial options available, such as FHA loans, VA loans, and local down payment assistance programs.
Our experienced team will accompany you through each step of the process to help you find the perfect new home.

We believe everyone deserves to relish the happiness of homeownership. Contact us today to turn your dream into a reality.

In conclusion, as we observe National Homeownership Month, let’s remember that a home represents more than a physical structure. It’s a sanctuary of peace, a symbol of pride, and an essential element of our communities. Whether you already own a home or are looking forward to becoming a homeowner, we’re here to help you relish every moment of this rewarding journey. Happy National Homeownership Month!

On your journey towards homeownership, avoid these nine common pitfalls!

June 1, 2023June 18, 2024

Discover the Joys of Downsizing: Your Path to a Simplified and Fulfilling Lifestyle

Key Takeaways:

Financial freedom: Reduce expenses, maximize savings, and invest in your future by downsizing your home.
Streamlined living: Embrace a clutter-free environment and enjoy more time for activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Expert guidance: Our real estate agents provide personalized support, extensive market knowledge, and a trusted network of professionals to ensure a seamless downsizing experience.

Are you seeking a more streamlined and rewarding lifestyle? Downsizing your home could be the transformative step you’ve been waiting for. Our dedicated real estate agent team is here to guide you through the process. We can ensure a seamless transition while maximizing the benefits of this exciting change. Explore the reasons to downsize, and the remarkable benefits it brings.

Why Downsize? 5 Compelling Reasons to Embrace a Smaller Space

Financial Freedom: Unlock new financial possibilities by reducing your housing expenses, mortgage payments, property taxes, and utility bills.
Simplify Your Life: Say goodbye to the burden of excess possessions and embrace a clutter-free living environment, fostering peace of mind and enhanced organization.
Right-size Your Space: Downsizing allows you to find the perfect-sized space that meets your needs and preferences.
Embrace Accessibility: Transition to a home that offers better mobility and accessibility features, ensuring comfort and convenience for years to come.
Embrace a Greener Lifestyle: Reduce your environmental impact by living in a smaller, more energy-efficient home. Minimize your carbon footprint and promoting sustainability.

The Wonderful Benefits of Downsizing: Discover a Life of Freedom and Fulfillment

Enhanced Financial Security: Downsizing frees up valuable resources, allowing you to invest, save for retirement, pursue passions, or enjoy new experiences.
More Time for What Matters: With reduced maintenance and upkeep, you’ll have more time and energy to focus on activities and relationships that bring you joy.
Closer Community Connections: Embrace a stronger sense of community by downsizing to a neighborhood or community that fosters social interaction and enriching relationships.
Streamlined Living: Experience the freedom of a simpler and more organized lifestyle. Downsizing encourages you to prioritize what truly matters and let go of unnecessary belongings.
Embrace New Opportunities: Realizing your equity opens doors to exciting possibilities like travel, hobbies, and personal growth.

Our Expert Team: Guiding You Through a Seamless Downsizing Journey

happy clients shaking hands with real estate agent

Personalized Consultation: Our experienced real estate agents will conduct a thorough assessment of your needs and goals. We can guide you towards the ideal downsizing solution.
Extensive Market Knowledge: Rely on our expertise and knowledge of the local housing market to find the perfect smaller home. We align your search with your preferences and budget.
Skilled Negotiation: Count on our negotiating prowess to secure the best possible terms and pricing for your downsized property.
Comprehensive Support: From home staging and marketing to coordinating moving services, we’ll provide comprehensive support throughout the entire downsizing process, minimizing stress and hassle.
Trusted Network: Tap into our extensive network of professionals, including movers, organizers, and downsizing specialists, to access a range of resources that will make your downsizing journey seamless.

Downsizing your home is an empowering decision that can lead to a more fulfilling and simplified lifestyle. You can embark on this exciting journey with confidence, knowing that we will guide you through each step of the process. Embrace the joys of downsizing and unlock a world of newfound freedom, financial security, and meaningful experiences. Contact us today to start your adventure!

May 2, 2023June 18, 2024

Discover the Perfect Time to Sell Your Home: 4 Reasons to List Now

Key Takeaways:

Market conditions favoring sellers
Adjusting to changes in space needs
Aligning with your evolving lifestyle
Emotionally ready and motivated for a fresh start

As a Realtor, I understand how the idea of selling your home can be both exciting and daunting. With the market constantly changing, it’s important to know when the time is right to make a move. If you’ve been considering selling, I’m here to guide you through the process and ensure you make the best decision for your situation. Let’s take a look at some reasons why now might be the perfect time to sell your house.

Why Now May Be the Time to Sell Your Home

The Market is Favoring Sellers

increase in housing list prices depicted by red arrow

Homeowners always hope to get the best possible price for their homes. Watching market trends can help you determine when it’s the right time to sell. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask us, your local real estate experts! We’ll help you find the ideal time and price to list your property.

You Need More or Less Space

Whether your family is expanding or you’re looking to downsize, finding the right size home is essential. Surprising shifts in the modern workforce are adding in new factors like telecommuting and hybrid workspaces. Where you once worked from an office, you may now be stepping out of bed and taking calls in your robe. We can help you find a home that fits your needs perfectly, from a larger house to a cozy condo or even a place with a dedicated office space.

Your Lifestyle is Changing

As your interests evolve, you may want to explore different communities and amenities. Are you starting to appreciate golf? Maybe you enjoy a more active lifestyle now? Whatever changes you may undergo throughout your life can dictate the community you fit best in. If you’re craving a new environment, it may be time to sell and find a lifestyle community that better suits your current desires.

You’re Emotionally Ready and Motivated to Sell

Have you ever looked around and felt you needed a change? Or maybe life throws something new and unique at you that you don’t want to pass up, and it means leaving your current home. Sometimes, life presents opportunities that are too good to pass up. If you’re feeling motivated to make a change and start a new chapter, now might be the time to sell your home.

Get the Definitive Answer

Still unsure if selling your home is the right move? A neighborhood sold report can provide valuable insights into the current market and help you make an informed decision. Simply contact us today with some information about your home, and we’ll be in touch with your personalized neighborhood report.

Together, we’ll analyze prior sales of similar properties and current listings in your neighborhood to determine a fair listing price that maximizes your return and promotes a quick sale.

Ready to start your new and exciting real estate journey? Give us a call, and let’s explore your options for selling your home. With our friendly, approachable style, we’re committed to making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

When you’re ready to sell, learn how to boost your home’s curb appeal to maximize your equity.

April 1, 2023June 18, 2024

Should You Buy a New Home Before Selling Your Current One?

Key Takeaways:

There’s no wrong answer when it comes to the order of buying and selling
Keep in mind the pros and cons of each option before making a decision
Contact us when you know how you’re handling the purchase or sale of your home

Whether you buy your new home before selling your old is the real estate industry’s equivalent of “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” At first thought, you believe there’s an obvious answer. And then you start to really break things down. Thankfully, a good list of pros and cons can guide you to the answer that fits your scenario.

What you’ll find is that it may come down to personal preference, but there are a few things you should take into consideration. If you’re in the market for a new home and need to list your current one, here are some pros and cons of both buying first, then selling and selling first, then buying.

Pros of Selling Before Buying Your Home

This may seem like the most logical option. You don’t have to carry two mortgages or pay utilities on two homes, and you can access the equity of your old home for the downpayment on the new one. But there are more benefits to selling your home first, in case neither of those perks apply.

You Can Better Stage Your Home

If you’re still living in the home you’re listing, you can use your furniture and some of your decor for staging. If you’ve ever walked into an empty home, it can feel cold and uninviting. But don’t crowd the space with furniture, and leave only minimal decor behind to make the space homey and warm.

Increase Your Purchase Offer

The word “contingent” isn’t a wonderful one in the real estate industry. If you’re trying to sell your home and the purchase of your new space is contingent on the property being sold, your offer may be less appealing. When you sell first, you have the money in hand and nothing holding up the deal.

Take Your Time

When you sell first, you can take your time. There’s no other home waiting for you and no contingencies on the sale. Being able to take it slow means you can be a little pickier with your offers.

No Question of Final Profit

When you sell and buy at the same time, there’s always a concern that you won’t walk away with what you expect from the sale. What if there’s a last-minute repair? What if you just don’t get what you were looking for? These things can really hinder your purchase, so it’s a perk to not have to think about it.

Cons of Selling Before Buying Your Home

Alternatively, selling before buying has some disadvantages. Chief among them are these three issues that can complicate matters a little.

You Will Need Temporary Housing…

When you sell your home, where will you live? With no new home to move into, you need to secure temporary lodging. Do you need a short-term rental or will you move in with a family member? Neither is ideal for any decent amount of time.

…But How Temporary Will It Be?

What if the purchase of your new home takes longer than expected? You can burn through some of your profits or strain relationships if things don’t go as planned. Month-to-month rentals aren’t secure as you can be asked to leave at any time and they are costly, so you have to time everything just right and hope it goes smoothly.

You’ll Be Adding an Additional Move

No matter how you organize things, you’re going to be moving twice. Even if most of your belongings go into storage and you keep only the necessities, you’re still unpacking and repacking your everyday items and transporting your stored effects to your new home. Moving can be a costly and tiresome endeavor, especially if you have to do it twice.

Pros of Buying Before Selling

If you have the option to purchase your new home before selling your old one, it may seem like the route to go. There are a few reasons why this is an ideal scenario, such as the following pros.

More Time to Find Your Dream Home

With a secure space to call home, you have more time to locate your new dream home. There’s no one pressuring you or chipping away at your bank account, and you don’t have to completely rearrange your schedule to make showings work.

You’re In Complete Control

As previously mentioned, you have nothing pushing you out of your home. This gives you complete control over your moving timeline. You can take your time to ensure everything is properly organized and safely packed.

Selling an Occupied Home Can Be a Hassle

When you’re trying to live in your home, it can be a nuisance to have to schedule showings and stage it properly. Larger families may find staging to be the biggest obstacle, especially if things have accumulated over the years. Some showings can also be scheduled last minute, meaning you’re having to rush out of the house. If you buy first, you’re already out of the house.

Only One Move

Since you won’t need temporary housing, your first and only move from the house you’re putting up for sale is to the house you purchased.

Cons of Buying Before Selling

Should you jump into buying your new home before you even list your current abode? We’ve covered the pros, but don’t forget to consider some of these reasons why you should maybe hold off.

It’s an Added Financial Strain

When you own two homes, chances are you have two mortgages. You’ll also need to keep utilities running in the home you’re selling. Then there are taxes, insurance, and any upkeep you may have to do while you still own the house you’re leaving.

You Have to Watch Over Two Homes

You don’t want to leave the home you’re selling unoccupied for long. It should be kept clean so prospective buyers are seeing a comfortable space and not something that’s been sitting for some time. The added work of performing upkeep and watching over two homes can take some time out of your week.

No Matter the Order, Call Us Today

It doesn’t matter to us whether you buy or sell first, so long as you end up with the resolution you were seeking. Give us a call today so we can help you decide which best suits your situation and needs. Once we know what’s best for you, we’ll either find your new home or set a valuation for the home you’re selling.

Read our tips on maximizing your home’s equity.