Your house is too big, too old, or in the wrong location—or climate. You’re ready for fewer stairs, a more walkable community, access to outdoor recreation, a unique selection of cultural amenities—pick one or all. Is this you?
If you’ve answered “yes” faster than a run down one of Auburn State Recreation Area trails, you may be among the many empty nesters looking for a new home.
Step 1: Assessing Housing Needs
Now what? Do we sell, do we rent, do we stay?
To answer any or all of the above questions, you need to determine what are your plans for the future are. Is your present residence too large and you feel you would like to scale down? Do you plan to travel a lot and have no desire to continue to maintain a large residence? Perhaps a townhouse or a condominium is the answer.
If you sell your present home, do you desire to purchase another home or rent either a home or apartment? What are your tax consequences?
If you decide to sell, take a careful look at any deferred maintenance problems and how they will be remedied. A look at time frames needs to be addressed. – within 6 months, a year, two years?
I can help you navigate and explore the best options for your situation. Let’s meet and talk.
Step 2: Call, Text, eMail or Schedule a Meeting with Cliff
Even if you have purchased and sold many homes, wouldn’t some expertise help? I can help you determine the value on your present home is more that the “house down the street sold for $xxx, xxx”. I’ll offer a realistic approach as to what is the best listing price to market your present home, what you can realistically expect for marketing time and what is the competition from other homes currently on the market.
The real estate market changes quickly. Purchasing a new home is more than just finding that perfect house. Return on your investment and money in your pocket should be a large consideration.
Step 3: Determine Your Financing Options
“Run the numbers.” Your housing needs have changed, and your comfort level of mortgage payment may have changed. You may want to travel more, put more of your funds into retirement funds, increase expendable dollars or increase the percentage of your income for housing. You may want to explore a bridge loan to buy your next home and pay it off with the proceeds of your current home. I can help you move on your terms getting you the right home at the right price.
Step 4: Look for a New Home
Determine a geographical area that suits your needs for commute time, proximity to shopping, schools and recreation. Decide whether a townhouse, condo or single-family detached property fits your lifestyle. What amenities would you like to see in your new home –number of bedrooms, number of baths, garage, fireplace, garden tub, square footage, size of lot, etc.
I’ll help you make a checklist for the right home. Relocating out of the area? I can help you find a great agent to help you buy out of state too.
Final Thoughts
Even the savviest homeowner can use the help and expertise of a good agent making what is more often the last home they will buy. I’m a hyper local agent in South Placer and have over 15 years of experience that matters when it comes to making the best decision for your situation. Please reach out to me and let me earn your business and trust.