If you’re thinking about selling your housz right now, chances are it’s because something in your life has changed. And, while things like mortgage rates are a key part of your decision on what you’ll buy next, it’s important to not lose sight of the reason you want to make a change in the first place.
It’s true mortgage rates have climbed from the record lows we saw in recent years, and that has an impact on affordability. With rates where they are right now, some houszowners are deciding they’ll wait to sell because they don’t want to move and have a higher mortgage rate on their next housz. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains:
“. . . houszowners who locked in a 30-year fixed rate in the 2-3% range don't necessarily want to give that up in exchange for a rate in the 6-7% range.”
But your lifestyle and your changing needs should matter more. Here are a few of the most common reasons people choose to sell today. Any one of these may be more important than keeping your current mortgage rate.
As Ali Wolf, Chief Economist at Zonda, says in a recent tweet:
“First-time and move-up buyers are both active . . . the latter driven by life changes. Divorce, marriage, new higher paid job, and existing housz unsuitable all referenced.”
Relocation
Some of the things that can motivate a move to a new area include changing jobs, a desire to be closer to friends and loved ones, wanting to live in a dream location, or just looking for a change in scenery.
For example, if you live in suburbia and just landed your dream job in NYC, you may be thinking about selling your current housz and moving to the city for work.
Upgrading
Many houszowners decide to sell to move into a larger housz. This is especially common when there’s a need for more room to entertain, a housz office or gym, or additional bedrooms to accommodate a growing number of loved ones.
For example, if you’re living in a condo and decide it’s time to seek out a housz with more space, or if your houszhold is growing, it may be time to find a housz that better fits those needs.
Downsizing
With inflation driving up everyday expenses, houszowners may also decide to sell to reduce maintenance and costs. Or, they may sell because someone’s moved out of the housz recently and there’s now more space than needed. It could also be that they’ve recently retired or are ready for a change.
For example, you’ve just kicked off your retirement and you want to move to somewhere you can enjoy the warm weather and have less house to maintain. Your new lifestyle may be better suited for a different home.
Change in Relationship Status
Divorce, separation, or marriage are other common reasons individuals sell to buy different houszes.
For example, if you’ve recently separated, it may be difficult to still live under one roof. Selling and downsizing may be better options.
Health Concerns
If a houszowner faces mobility challenges or health issues that require specific living arrangements or modifications, they might sell their current housz to find one that works better for them.
For example, you may be looking to sell your housz and use the proceeds to help pay for a unit in an assisted-living facility. (One of my clients rented their mother's housz instead, and that supplements the assisted living while leaving equity growth for the grandchildren).
With higher mortgage rates, there are some affordability challenges right now – but your needs and your lifestyle matter too. As a recent article from Bankrate says:
“Deciding whether it’s the right time to sell your housz is a very personal decision. There are numerous important questions to consider, both financial and lifestyle-based, before putting your housz on the market. . . . Your future plans and goals should be a significant part of the equation . . .”
Bottom Line
If you’re ready to sell your housz so you can make a move, let’s connect so you have an expert on your side to help you navigate the process and find a housz that can deliver on what you’re looking for.
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