Preparing to Sell Your House: Mentally & Emotionally

If you are thinking about selling your property, your absolute first step is making the firm decision to sell. Often people get carried away with the all the busy work associated with selling, but without the mental and emotional commitment, the sale cannot move forward.  

This post is Tip # 1 in our Top 10 Tips to Sell Your House for Maximum Sales Price.

Take the time to understand why you are selling and why it is the best decision for you, financially, emotionally, or some combination of personal reasons. 

Preparing Mentally to Sell

Everyone is different how they come to their decisions; Some people make a list, others talk with trusted friends, associates, or advisors.  Another common strategy to come to a firm decision is a simple Pros & Cons T-Chart, outlining the pros and cons of selling your property. 

If you are thinking about selling your property, what are your reasons?  Perhaps it is time to upsize? Or simplify your life by downsizing?  There could be financial pressure, medical reasons, or the desire to be closer to family or friends.  

While you work through this process, take comfort knowing that on average, it takes people 4 months to make the decision to sell.  A very small minority of people make their decision quickly, independently and with full resolve. 

The test

Here's one sure fire way you will know if you are ready to sell or not.  Contact our office & request to speak with someone about selling your house.  Ask what you should do to prepare the house for sale. 

You will receive some recommendations and suggestions to maximize the sale price.  If you find yourself resisting these simple suggestions, you probably are not ready to sell. 

Schedule a Call with Marco 

Preparing Emotionally to Sell

Once you've come to the firm mental decision, there are still those pesky emotions to attend to. Perhaps you've come to the logical, rational, and/or financial determination that selling your house makes the most sense.  But how are you feeling about it? 

There is a very important reason you must be prepared emotionally.  Your mindset must change from selling your "home" to selling a piece of property in a competitive marketplace.

If you are not truly ready to view your "home" as a product, you are not read to sell.   It is best to wait until your ready to sell. 

If you can't wait to sell because of some other reason, but you are not emotionally ready, the sale will be difficult for you. You will want to get the support of friends and family to help you through.  Also, communicate this reality to your real estate broker so they can proceed with sensitivity and ensure the process is as painless as possible for you. 

It may be easier to designate a friend or family member as the main point of contact and involve yourself only when major decisions are being made.  These options are up to you and your broker will help you through. 

Conclusion

Making the decision to sell your house is hopefully a simple one.  Most likely, though, it will be a longer term decision making process followed by an emotional release.  Take the time to work through the mental and emotional steps necessary to approach the sale of your house with clarity and determination to sell.