Growing up in a townhome and renting most of my life, the goal when we moved was to leave the place a little better than we found it so we could get our security deposit back, which was significant. However, as I grew older, I eventually became fortunate enough to buy my first home.
So far, it is my biggest investment and largest asset I have to date. Should I choose to move, there are things I will need to consider doing before even putting my home on the market. Some of the most basic tasks to accomplish before moving are:
- Hire a moving company, get written confirmation of the moving date, costs, and other details
- Pack and label
- Deep clean
- Transfer utilities and connectivity services
- Go to post office to forward address
- Separate valuables
- Notify important parties (friends, family, current neighbors)
- Forward medical records
But what about the most important aspects of moving, specifically if you are selling your current home and purchasing a different home that’s new to you? First things first:
- Get pre-approved for a new mortgage
- Find a realtor
- Do all necessary repairs and restorations before putting it on the market
When it comes to selling your home, you want to make sure you get every penny you have earned through sweat and tears. And, that’s where the professionals come in. Hiring a restoration company and an insurance adjuster might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about selling your house, but it can make a world of difference.
For example, let’s say you’re getting ready to put your home on the market, and a big hailstorm hits your neighborhood, resulting in wind and storm damage galore. Suddenly, dreams of a quick and easy move are shattered.
Not only will you need to hire a restoration company, but it is strongly suggested by your realtor to also hire an insurance adjuster to make certain you receive the proper amount of funding to restore your home to maximum selling status.
A restoration company will take all the necessary steps to contain any existing damage and to mitigate further damage. Throughout the building and/or restoration process(es), a dedicated account team – comprising project management, insurance-claims negotiation, client service, and administrative support professionals – will keep you informed and deliver attentive, compassionate service that will help you and your family get back to the moving process. It’s like they have magical powers to turn chaos into order.
Not only that, but they’ll also work hand in hand with an insurance adjuster. These folks are experts at making sure you receive the maximum amount of funding to restore your home to its former glory. Residential property insurance claims are complicated, time-sensitive, and require unique expertise. All too often, large property claims are settled for much less than they are worth. These pros will fight tooth and nail with the insurance company to ensure you get every dollar you deserve. It’s like having your own personal superhero duo working tirelessly to protect your financial interests, which we all could use when navigating the treacherous waters of restoration, selling, and buying a new home simultaneously.
Types of mortgage loans
There is no one-size-fits-all mortgage program. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer looking for your forever home or moving out of state to a new town, you’ll need a mortgage that meets your family’s short-term and long-term goals. Below are a few types of loans that fit a varying amount of needs:
- Conventional
A conventional mortgage has a fixed interest rate and is repaid over a specified time. It provides a traditional thirty-year mortgage as well as shorter-term mortgages.
- FHA & Rehabilitation
Qualified borrowers gain additional security, making homeownership more accessible to families for a down payment.
- New Construction
If you plan to build a new home from the ground up, we can help. Your builder will receive money upfront for materials and additional funds at closing.
- Veterans’ admin
Veterans, active-duty military personnel, and military spouses may be eligible for a loan guaranteed by the Department of Veteran Affairs.
- Rural development loans
If a city home isn’t in your plans or budget, you might be a good candidate for a USDA 502 rural development loan. These loans enable low-income families to move into existing, newly built, or even new construction homes in some of the state’s most beautiful rural areas.
- Home Equity loans:
One of the most valuable assets we acquire in life is a home. When it comes time to renovate or make a significant investment, a home equity loan can help you make that asset work for you. The mortgage team at 1st Securities can assist you in assessing your financial situation and determining whether a home equity loan is the best option for your long-term goals.
How do I stage my house for maximum value?
Just imagine how wonderful your home will look with a freshly painted exterior, sparkling clean windows, repaired leaky faucets, and a beautifully landscaped yard. These small details will make a world of difference in attracting home buyers and receiving the maximum selling price. It’s like giving your house a makeover worthy of a magazine spread. Here is a list of more tips to consider:
- Declutter rooms – put items in storage if necessary.
- Invest in good storage – this will make rooms feel neat and well organized.
- Clean and maintain your home.
- Repaint bright or bold schemes in more neutral, light-enhancing colors.
- Rethink room layouts to make them look bigger.
Potential buyers want to see a clean and spacious home, consider putting some items in storage to open up the rooms and create an airy, inviting atmosphere. Sometimes, rearranging furniture and accessories can make a room feel bigger, brighter, and more inviting. Experiment with different setups that maximize the space and highlight the best features of each room.
Repaint any walls currently making a bold statement and opt for soft, soothing hues that create a sense of calm. Your goal is to help potential buyers to envision themselves living in your home.
Staging isn’t just about making your home look “pretty” but rather about creating an emotional connection with potential buyers.
What to do before moving to a new house
In conclusion, if you’re considering selling your home, don’t underestimate the power of professionals. Hire a restoration company to handle any storm damage and make your home shine like a diamond. Contact an insurance adjuster to ensure you get the maximum funds to cover the repairs. Trust that these pros will assist you in making a splash in the real estate market and walk away with everything you have earned in caring for your most significant investment, your home.