Recently, I've had several people come to me and say "Hilary, my home just doesn't work for me anymore and I want to move but... I have no idea where to start!" Are you finding yourself in a similar situation? Maybe you need more space, a backyard for the kids to play in, or a home office. Whatever the reason may be, one thing is clear – it's time to sell your home and upsize to one that better fits your needs. Here are my 5 tips to help get you started and on your way to living in your ideal home in no time!
1. Choose a seasoned REALTOR®
This person should specialize in double transactions and will guide you through the steps of selling one home while simultaneously buying another. She'll walk you through what your home is currently worth, what it should be listed at, and present market stats for your area, including recent comparable homes that sold, how many days to an offer (DTO) and the sales price to original list price.
2. Speak to a Lender early in the process
After you select your REALTOR® and have an idea of how much equity you have in your current home, speak with a lender. It's important to be educated on the various loan options and rates today and know what your new monthly payment will look like. Can you buy before you sell? Is a bridge loan the right choice for you? These questions and more can be discussed with your lender so a proper plan can be put into place.
3. Make a list of home improvements to do BEFORE you list your home
With the guidance of your REALTOR®, this list may include anything from changing interior paint to neutral colors and exterior landscaping, changing old light fixtures or refreshing a tired bathroom, and even renting a storage unit to declutter and stage your home! It's very important to show your home in its best light, so you have the best chance at selling quickly and for top dollar.
4. Make a list of qualities and attributes you're looking for in your new home
This includes neighborhoods and towns, like Boston's Back Bay vs. West Roxbury neighborhoods. Discuss your expectations with your REALTOR® so you start looking for a new home while simultaneously preparing your current home for market.
5. Determine when you'd like to be in your new home and work backward from there
For example, if your goal is to be in your new home by Jan. 31st, what steps do you need to implement and when, to reach this goal? Together, we can put a plan in place and get you across that finish line!
Partnering with a seasoned real estate professional is key to navigating through the real estate process. It's important to both trust and like this person, as they will be a part of your every day, you will be looking to them for advice, and they will be connecting you with their trusted resources to help you each and every step of the way.
If you would like to further discuss how to take the first step in your real estate journey, please call me today!