How to make the most of your move-up

When you are buying a home for the first time, whether in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Parkland County, the Edmonton area or elsewhere, the process is usually straight forward. However, when you are moving to a second or third home, other issues arise, making the process more complicated. You will need to consider financing, and selling your home at the right time. This way, you won’t have the added responsibility of paying the mortgage on two homes. You will also want to coordinate closings, so you can plan your move most efficiently. Here are some of the most effective things you can do to make the most of your move up.

Save your feet and your time
Many people spend much time shopping for a home, only to be disappointed because it has either sold or is beyond the budget. This hit and miss strategy is time consuming and very frustrating. A better alternative is to use the services provided by a REALTOR®. As a client, you have access to a Buyer Profile System/House Hunting System. Your REALTOR® will provide you with regular updates on all available property that match your needs. You will stay on budget, save your feet, and come closer to finding the home of your dreams, faster than trying to shop on your own.

Make improvements on your existing home
A home that shows well, and is in good condition always gets the highest price. A home in less favorable condition is less appealing to a buyer. You will easily reap the rewards of completing minor repairs to your home. Also, make these improvements prior to putting your home on the market. You will want to present your home the best to get the best!  [Read my blog articles on home staging:  "Home Staging Starts With De-cluttering" and "Be Your Own Home Stager".]

Sell your present home first
The easiest and wisest strategy is to sell your home before you buy. This way, you won’t be at a disadvantage at the negotiating table, or feel pressured to accept a below-market value to meet a purchase deadline. With your home already sold, there will be no strings attached on your next one. When you do find a new home, you have the option of putting a subject to on the contact. This way you can give yourself plenty of time to find a new home. In a slow market, perhaps you could rent your home and put it on the market later. However, with this option, check with your lawyer, tax advisor and accountant to ensure all legal, tax and financial aspects are considered.

Some REALTORS® offer a Guaranteed Sale Trade-Up Program. With this service, the REALTOR® guarantees the sale of your current home before possession of your next one. If you have found the home of your choice, and your current home has not sold, the REALTOR® will buy the home from you. You are free to make your move without stress and worry.

Get mortgage pre-approval
Pre-approval is your green light and your maximum power. In a short time, you will know how much you qualify for when moving up to a larger home. When you find your new home, you can present an offer immediately. A seller will often view your offer more favorably when financing arrangements are established.

Co-ordinate closings
With two major transactions there are double the details of mortgage experts, appraisers, lawyers, loan officers, title registrations and home inspectors. A REALTOR® can assist you in ensuring all the logistical details of your transaction are handled correctly, and on time.