The Buying & Selling Process

Selling and Buying a home is a lengthy, stressful (maybe partly self imposed) process. Think home inspection, radon inspections, appraisals, loan approvals, and all the associated signatures.  Wheww.  Coupled with me being very impatient (I am working on that) I am not sure if I will make it.  Most people may think we are crazy for doing this over 2 major holidays (Turkey Day and Christmas), but honestly, I think that is the only way I will make it.  It will take my mind off everything and allow December 26th to get here as fast a possible (the day we are scheduled to close on both places). 

So far my thoughts on it all -
Selling -
- Stage your home!  Clear out all the clutter, re-arrange items, and de-personalize (aka pictures).  This makes your place look BIG (especially if you live in a small house like our 800 sf condo). 
- Clean it and make it smell lovely!  With a dog, this is hard, but a must (sorry Grouper).  Hair balls floating around is not the best look. 
- Keep it clean!  Clean up after yourself, it will make your life easier.

Our current living room

Buying -
- Start early!  If you think you just might sell your place and buy a new home in the next couple of months, start looking now.  Scan real estate website (like redfin.com if it is in your area) to see what is out there and what it will cost you.  That way, when you truly are ready to go house hungtin you know location, cost, must-haves and they type of inventory that is available that meets your criteria. 
- Go with a realtor!  We did some Sunday open house hunting, but going for a day with your realtor allows you to see so much so quickly.  We like our realtor because he is straight up honest with you/opinionated.  Lets us see all sides. 
- Got with your gut!  You know its right when it feels right.  Don't try and convince yourself you love a place.

Our future living room


And, now for the Grouper's opinion on all of it:

Grouper PLUS a Big Backyard

+

Equals = ... LOTS OF FUN! ;)

Happy house hunting!