Are you a senior considering making the move from your home to an independent living community like Parkview Senior living? Or even just downsizing? Selling a home that you’ve made memories in can be daunting and overwhelming. However, there are some things you can do to make the process much easier. Below are seven tips to help you get ready to move from your home to a smaller space.
Make a moving plan
As a senior, a plan is crucial for successfully selling your home and moving. Start by sitting down and creating a list of tasks you need to complete before you can begin preparing to sell. Having a plan can help you ensure that you achieve all your goals before moving to a smaller place. This task might not be as simple as when you were younger. A well-thought-out plan can save time, money, and stress.
Declutter
One of the first steps in preparing to put your house on the market is getting rid of clutter. Over time, it’s common for people to accumulate things they no longer use or need but feel an attachment to. Going through your closets, attic, basement, or garage and clearing out old clutter is a great way to start. This process also gives you the opportunity to return items to family, donate unwanted items to charity, or even sell some of your more valuable possessions. Most realtors will tell you that an uncluttered home shows better than one full of unused items.
Decide what you’re going to keep
After you have gotten rid of all the clutter in your house, take a step back and decide what things you really want to or must keep. Obviously, items like your bedroom set are coming with you, but what other larger furniture pieces do you plan on keeping? Leaving larger items that you plan to discard in your home while you show the house is perfectly fine. However, it is wise to devise a plan for what you will do with them when you finally make the move. Take this opportunity to think long and hard about what’s important. This is another great opportunity to sell or donate items that you won’t need when you downsize.
Deep clean
Once you have finished sorting all your belongings and rid your home of clutter, give your house a good deep cleaning. Hiring a professional cleaning service is a great option or solicit help from family and friends. Potential buyers will be much more likely to purchase a home that is clean and de-cluttered.
Repairs and updates
Although your house may be in great shape, it’s always important to consider ways to refurbish it to increase its value and attract new buyers. Many suggest painting the walls in neutral colors to make rooms appear larger and less distracting to potential buyers. Updating fixtures and hardware can also make a big difference. Replacing outdated light fixtures, cabinet handles, and faucets can give your home a more modern look without breaking the bank. Additionally, it’s important for the exterior of your house to look appealing. Consider sprucing up your landscaping by adding colorful flowers or new mulch to your flower beds, all while keeping the grass green and cut. The outside of your home is the first thing potential buyers see, and first impressions are crucial.
Consider using real estate agent
Many people decide to go the “for sale by owner” route, although a good real estate agent can make a big difference. A local agent can help you price, stage, and advertise your home effectively in a local market they know well. Additionally, an agent will show your home to potential buyers and assist you in negotiating offers to ensure you get the best possible price. Ask family and friends for realtor recommendations or consult online reviews for agents in your area. Choosing the right real estate agent can significantly ease the stress of the selling process and help you achieve your price goals.
Set a timeline for you move out/ move in
After listing your home, create a timeline for when you want to or can move out and transition into a new place. This is especially crucial if you are moving into a senior living community where vacancies may be an issue.
Moving to a smaller space can be stressful and exhausting, along with saying goodbye to your beloved home. Give yourself ample time to properly prepare for the move and find the help you need and ensure a smooth transition.
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