We recently discussed that the winter time, like we are in right now, is often the best time of the year to purchase a new home. For most Southwest Florida residents, you cannot simply decide when it is time to buy a home, though; you first need to sell your current house. Knowing exactly when the right time to sell is can be extremely nerve wracking. Is the market hot? Will you get your asking price? Should you wait a few more months and remodel the kitchen first? There is certainly a lot to think about. If you’re not 100 percent ready to put a sign in your yard, but you’re feeling a strong urge, here are a few signs to look out for:
#1 Your Neighbors Just Sold (and did well!). Many times, homes near each other are built around the same time, have the same amount of bedrooms, feature the same amenities, are near the same landmarks, and will eventually be sold for around the same price. If a neighbor just down the street successfully sold their house for a price you’d be happy with, that is a very good sign that your home can do so as well.
#2 You’ve Outgrown it. Does this sound familiar? The house that once perfectly fit two newlyweds is now bursting at the seams thanks to the addition of your dog, toddler, and new baby on the way. Start checking with your Beattie Realty Team member about your options. There are many communities and houses in Southwest Florida to chose from, and we’d love to be the one showing you around. There is sure to be a home in the area that is a much better fit for your growing family.
#3 There is a New Opportunity You Have Your Eye on. Timing is everything in real estate. If there is a new housing community being built, the home of your dreams just went up for sale, or you are interested in building a custom home while the RRB Collection is priced so low, you’ll need to put your house on the market to take that opportunity. Don’t miss your chance!
#4 You are Financially Ready. As exciting as selling your home and picking out a new one is, don’t run away with the idea before you consider the financial aspect of it. Start by taking a hard look at your finances. If you do not have significant debt and even possibly have three to six months of expenses in your emergency fund, that’s a good sign you’re financially ready. Also, you will want to make sure your home has recovered enough value after the 2008 housing market crash to provide at least 20% equity for your next purchase. Why is 20% the magic number? Because you’ll need to put 20% or more down on a home to avoid private mortgage insurance (PMI).
The latest data from the National Association of Realtors shows that half of recently-sold properties were on the market for just 39 days. Don’t go another day in a house that doesn’t match up to your Southwest Florida living dream. The Beattie Realty Team can help you sell your house, quickly and for a price that gives you enough to move into something more suited to your needs. Contact us today by calling (239) 994-6187 or emailing sales@beattiedev.com and begin the process of listing your home.