It may be difficult to consider selling your home, especially if you have lived there for a long time. However, once you have decided that you want to move to a senior living community, you should make this a high priority for yourself.
Your first step is to decide if you want to sell your home yourself or list it with a realtor. Using a realtor is much easier and generally much faster, as they have the exposure and marketing abilities, along with professional knowledge in the home sales laws. When selecting a realtor, ask for referrals from your attorney, banker, family members, or others you trust. Some real estate agents specialize in assisting older adults. You should speak with several real estate firms before deciding on which will list your home.
Naturally, you will want to be able to sell your home for the highest possible amount. Here are a few suggestions to help you make your home look its best.
Take an inventory of your home’s condition and decide what needs repair, painting, wallpaper, etc. Your realtor will also be able to help with objective suggestions for improvements. Generally, any money you spend in repairs and fix-ups will be easily recovered at the time of the sale.
The amount of time it takes to sell your home is dependent on the area in which you live, interest rates, the condition of your home, and other factors. On the average, homes sell within three to four months. You will want to plan when listing your home to be able to move in good weather, if possible. Listing in early spring usually will allow plenty of time for ease in moving.
Your housing counselor at your new senior living community is a great resource to help you with a checklist of things you need to do before you move, such as contacting people regarding your new address, how to have an estate or garage sale for items you won’t take to your new apartment, setting up your new phone and cable, and even enlisting the services of a moving/sales coordinator, if you desire. Be sure to ask for their help, so your move to your new home is as convenient for you as possible.