WHAT DO I DO? I’M MOVING AND MY HOUSE HASN’T SOLD YET
Moving and selling your home can be stressful, especially if they’re happening simultaneously. We know there are situations where your move has to happen soon because of a job, health matters, or a simple relocation. However, it can be challenging to sell your home in time for your move and trying to juggle this sale while in a different location can be quite stressful. We’ve put together a few tips that might help you or come in handy if you happen to fall into this situation.
BE AWARE OF YOUR TIMELINE
The real estate market has been in an unprecedented spot and will be for the foreseeable future. Never before have we seen a market so shifted toward sellers. That means that not only will it be difficult to buy a home below market value, but it will take quite some time to get your home.
This is due to a variety of factors, such as the incredibly low interest rates and unique situation caused by the Coronavirus pandemic. At the moment, demand is far greater than supply, so expect the homebuying process to take months.
ASK A FRIEND OR RELATIVE FOR A LITTLE EXTRA HELP
If it happens that you have to move before the house is sold, ask a friend or relative to help you out with some housekeeping in the meantime. This can include being a point of contact for your realtor, taking care of the open houses, and checking up on the house from time to time.
If the sale is happening in the spring or summer, you want to make sure you arrange for lawn services because an unkept lawn detracts from the curb appeal. This can include mowing, watering the plants, and trimming the shrubs.
However, if it’s happening in the winter or fall when it’s cooler out, you want to make sure you keep the heat on so the house is prepared for potential buyers. Also, arrange for someone to shovel the yard and check for any leaks or damages if you are in a state that snows.
BE AWARE OF HOW TO PROPERLY PRESENT YOUR HOME
When taking pictures of the home for listing sites, make sure your house is still fully furnished and appears as “lived-in”. If there are any damages, make sure you specifically state them so the buyers are aware.
When it comes time for open houses, you want to have your house set up as move-in ready, this will seem more inviting and give buyers a homier feeling. Ensure all interior walls look well kept, carpets are cleaned, and the bathrooms look and smell good. The more spotless the house is, the easier the sale will be to sell. If the house is empty or not well kept, it will be easy for people to bypass and will extend the time that the house is on the market.
Try your best to resist the temptation of packing up and moving around furniture until the house is sold. If your move is happening soon and you have to pack, plan to hire a professional home staging company to provide you with a “lived-in” look.
PREPARE FOR THE WORST
If you’re already moved out, consider utilizing an alarm system. If your home is one of many in a vacant area, you will want to protect your house from being broken into and looted. This is one of the biggest reasons homebuyers derail from purchasing a home. Speak with your insurance provider prior to your move to see if you need to increase the coverage on your home now that it’s on the market.
ONE LAST NOTE
If your move is a temporary move and your house seems not to be selling, possibly try renting it out. Many management companies can help you find a tenant for your home in the meantime.
Last helpful tip, if you’re moving before your house sells make sure to set a budget for trips back. You never know when you might have to take an unexpected trip, but it is best to prepare ahead instead of scrambling for some extra money.
