Home Seller's Guide - Northern Virginia Homes, Buyers Agents, Listing Agents

Home Seller's Guide - Prepare and Plan

Consider your motivations for selling to help determine if you are truly ready to part with your current home.

• Are You Ready to Leave Your Current Home?
  Moving is a tiring and stressful experience, and leaving your home can be emotionally difficult as well - especially if you've lived there for many years. Make sure you're really ready to go before you put the property on the market.
• Moving Up
  Probably the most common reasons for selling a home are the need for more space and the desire to move up to more luxurious property. Many homeowners find that increased income - coupled with appreciation in their current houses - makes moving up a feasible option. This strategy has proven to be a successful long-term wealth builder as housing prices have generally continued to rise over time.
• Financial and Tax Implications of Selling
  A home is a major investment, and the decision to sell is one fraught with financial implications. Is now a good time to sell? Is it a good time to buy another home? Have you considered the tax consequences of the sale?
• Selling for Financial Reasons
  Many people sell for financial reasons. A reduction in income, increased expenses (e.g. college tuitions), and the need to save or invest more to meet goals are common reasons for moving to a smaller home.
• Remodeling vs. Selling
  Even if you want more space or more luxurious appointments, there is an option to selling - you can remodel your existing house. Review our remodeling checklist to help determine if this is your best option.
• Selling for Retirees
  Retirement is a great time to sell the old family home and purchase something smaller and more convenient. For many people, home equity is a major portion of overall savings and net worth. Reinvesting the proceeds from the sale of an appreciated home can significantly improve your post-retirement budget - and help support an active and enjoyable lifestyle.
• Sell First or Buy First?
  This is one of the biggest questions faced by homeowners - and it's not an easy one to answer. Review our tips for determining which way is best for you.
• Rent Out Your Old Home Instead of Selling?
  If you're moving but are reluctant to sell your old home you may have another option - renting. By renting you may be able to sustain the costs of both your old and new houses. Being a landlord is no picnic, however. Check out our rental guide to get an idea of what is involved before going down this road.