Are you faced with the challenge of selling your current home while simultaneously searching for a new one? You’re not alone! This situation is incredibly common, with approximately 85 to 90% of people finding themselves in a similar predicament. However, the last thing you want is to be stuck owning two properties or settling for a home you’re not truly happy with. Luckily, there’s a specific formula to help you navigate this process smoothly, easily, and even enjoyably. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through five essential steps that will ensure you transition seamlessly from Home A to Home B, without compromising on your dream home.
Step 1: Clarity – Know
Where You Want to Go:
The first step in this process is gaining absolute clarity on your desired destination. Take the time to clearly define why you want to move and make a list of the benefits you seek in your next home. Additionally, outline the criteria for the community you wish to live in. Having this clarity from the start will save you from getting overwhelmed later on and ensure you’re ready to take action when the time comes.
Step 2: Preparation –
Getting Your Home Market-Ready:
To
maximize your chances of a swift sale, it’s essential to prepare your current
home for the market. Start by decluttering and removing any unnecessary items.
Consider renting a storage facility to temporarily store belongings and create
a clean and spacious environment. Pay attention to enhancing your home’s curb
appeal by working on landscaping and giving the front entry a fresh look.
Taking these steps will make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
Step 3: Listing Your Property:
Believe
it or not, listing your current home before finding a new one is a strategic
move. While you may not have identified your dream home yet, getting your
property on the market is a significant first step. If you delay listing your
home while searching for a new one, you risk missing out on opportunities. For
instance, imagine you stumble upon a perfect home while yours is still not up
for sale. If you make a contingent offer, meaning your offer is dependent on
selling your existing home, another buyer without such a contingency can snatch
the house away. By listing your home promptly, you can make progress in the
sales process while simultaneously exploring potential new homes.
Step 4: Simultaneously Touring Homes and Making Progress:
With
your current home listed, you can now actively tour properties with your real
estate agent. Make sure to note the features you appreciate and those you don’t
during each viewing, gradually narrowing down your options. While you’re
searching for your next home, your agent will be diligently working on getting
your current home sold. This approach ensures you’re not passively waiting for
things to happen but actively making progress on both fronts.
Step 5: Negotiating and Staying in Control:
Once
you receive an offer on your current home, it’s time to negotiate. Multiple
offers are ideal, giving you more leverage in the negotiation process. However,
if you haven’t found your dream home yet and your current home is not under
contract, a contingent offer may not put you in the strongest position.
Instead, negotiate to extend the closing and possession timelines, allowing you
more time to finalize your decision. By securing a longer timeframe, such as 70
days or more, you’ll have ample opportunity to narrow down your choices and
find the perfect home.
Moving from one home to another can be a daunting process, but with the right approach, it can be smooth, easy, and even enjoyable. By following the five steps outlined above, you’ll have a clear path to transition from Home A to Home B without the fear of owning two homes or settling.
