How to Know When It's Time to Move Out of Your Current Home

After all the years I’ve spent in the real estate industry, I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone utter the words: “I can’t wait to start packing my things! I absolutely LOVE the moving process!”

Plain and simple, moving is a pain—for both your back and your wallet—so most of us try to avoid it whenever possible. However, there are certain times in your life when it’s a very necessary evil, so it’s important to pay attention to those telltale signs which suggest a move may be your best option.

1.) YOU’VE BEGUN TO FEEL LIKE YOU’RE LIVING IN A CHILDREN’S PLAYHOUSE: Has your family been multiplying while the number of rooms in your home has stayed the same? If things are starting to feel a bit tight, it may be time to exchange your starter home for a house that will accommodate individual bedrooms for your children and extras like an office or play area.

2.) IT’S THAT DARN EMPTY NEST FEELING: On the other hand, if you’re dealing with the opposite problem and your home feels a bit empty, you may be dealing with a bit too much house for your current lifestyle. Once the kids have left for college, whether your goal is to save money or to simply make things easier, you may want to consider downsizing to a home that’s a bit more modest.

3.) YOU’RE MOVING ON UP: Whether you’ve landed a big promotion at work or have taken a new job, instead of fantasizing about kitchens with granite or two story stone fireplaces, you may want to consider looking for that upgraded house of your dreams.

4.) YOU’VE BECOME TOO FAMILIAR WITH YOUR CAR: If you’ve found yourself spending more time with your car radio than you do with your spouse and kids, it may be time to find a property with a shorter commute. No one likes coming straight home from work, only to find that they have little time before nightfall. Therefore, instead of spending 2-3 hours a day stuck in rush hour traffic, opt for a home that’s close to work.

5.) THE HONEY-DO LIST JUST KEEPS GROWING: Yes, old houses tend to get—well, old—which means increasing maintenance costs become part of the deal. However, if it’s starting to feel like you spend half of the weekend picking up supplies at Home Depot or Lowes, it may be time to start looking for a newer home with fewer upkeep requirements.

In the end, making the decision to sell your home is something that demands more than just a cursory judgement, especially since moving is more than just packing up your things—it’s about taking the time to not only sell your current property, but to find another one in the process. When all is said and done, finding a new home requires a large financial commitment (even if you’re choosing to rent), so make sure it’s what you and your family truly needs.

If you’d like some assistance, please feel free to contact me for more information.

Pam Evans | Hello Pam Evans | www.HelloPamEvans.com | 678-778-6551