QUESTIONS TO ASK
These questions will help you decide whether you’re ready for a home that’s larger or in a more desirable location. If you answer yes to most of the questions, you may be ready to move.
Have
you built substantial equity in your current home?
Check your annual mortgage statement or call your lender to find out how much
you’ve paid down. Usually you don’t build up much equity in the first few years
of your mortgage, as monthly payments are mostly interest. But if you’ve owned
your home for five or more years, you may have significant, unrealized gains.
Has
your income or financial situation changed?
If you’re making more money, you may be able to afford higher mortgage payments
and cover the costs of moving. If your income has decreased, you may want to
consider downsizing.
Have
you outgrown your neighborhood?
The neighborhood you pick for your first home might not be the same one in
which you want to settle down for good. You may have realized that you’d like
to be closer to your job or live in a better school district.
Are
there reasons why you can’t remodel or add on?
Sometimes
you can create a bigger home by adding a new room or building up. But if your
property isn’t large enough, your municipality doesn’t allow it, or you’re
simply not interested in remodeling, then moving to a bigger home may be your
best option.
Are
you comfortable moving in the current housing market?
If your market is hot, your home may sell quickly and for top dollar, but the
home you buy will also be more expensive. If your market is slow, finding a
buyer may take longer, but you’ll have more selection and better pricing as you
seek your new home. Ask your real estate professional what they see happening
locally.
Are interest rates attractive?
Low rates help you buy “more” home, and also make it easier to find a buyer for your current place.
Is the effort and cost of maintaining your current home becoming difficult to manage?
A REALTOR ® can help you decide whether a smaller house, condo, or rental would be appropriate.