I'm moving houses for the 4th time in my life. I am amazed at how difficult and expensive it all is, from the realtor's fees and anticipated costs in the new home, to keeping the place clean for showings, to the worry about finding a new place I like. Lots of sleepless nights lately.
I'm actually moving 'up' expense wise as I am moving from a condo back to a single family home. My mortgage is paid off but I anticipate I will take a small mortgage on the new place, perhaps $30-50,000. Hopefully not. I don't like the fact that this will set me back financially somewhat, but I keep telling myself I need to take the long view here. I'm really looking for my "forever" home at this point.
I'm selling first because of the peace of mind it gives me to have cash in hand. I'm moving to the same area--less than 1-3 miles from where I am and hopefully within walking distance of work. But the worry in this seller's market is that once I have an offer in hand for my condo, no house will attract me. Then I'll have to rent for awhile and move twice. I have pets, so this makes it even more difficult.
No takers yet after a week on the market; five showings. Open House today. The showings and Open Houses make me feel 'violated' in my own home--not an unusual feeling I suppose when you are cleaning desperately for perfect strangers who give your place a rating.
All in all, it stinks. Any stories (especially successful ones) or words of advice welcome.
P.S. I gave condo living the old college try and hate it. Can't wait to get back to the independence of a single family home. Live and learn.
I'm actually moving 'up' expense wise as I am moving from a condo back to a single family home. My mortgage is paid off but I anticipate I will take a small mortgage on the new place, perhaps $30-50,000. Hopefully not. I don't like the fact that this will set me back financially somewhat, but I keep telling myself I need to take the long view here. I'm really looking for my "forever" home at this point.
I'm selling first because of the peace of mind it gives me to have cash in hand. I'm moving to the same area--less than 1-3 miles from where I am and hopefully within walking distance of work. But the worry in this seller's market is that once I have an offer in hand for my condo, no house will attract me. Then I'll have to rent for awhile and move twice. I have pets, so this makes it even more difficult.
No takers yet after a week on the market; five showings. Open House today. The showings and Open Houses make me feel 'violated' in my own home--not an unusual feeling I suppose when you are cleaning desperately for perfect strangers who give your place a rating.
All in all, it stinks. Any stories (especially successful ones) or words of advice welcome.
P.S. I gave condo living the old college try and hate it. Can't wait to get back to the independence of a single family home. Live and learn.