3 Tips for Moving Before You Sell Your Home Most experts will tell you to sell your home before moving to a new one. If you don’t, you risk having to pay two mortgages – always a stressful thought. However, sometimes moving before you sell your home cannot be helped, especially if you have a new job waiting for you in another city, province, or country. If you find yourself in this position, consider these three tips: Save up as much money as you can in the interim. Stop spending on anything that’s discretionary or “extra.” Instead, pile away extra funds in your budget in case you do end up with two mortgages at one time. Another option is to live in an apartment or rental home in your new city/province until the home you own is sold. Rentals may not be much cheaper, but at least they’re not a permanent fixture like a mortgage. Make your home buyer-ready. Take time to update and repair anything in your home that would be of concern to a buyer – include both small and large repairs. Also, make sure the home is thoroughly cleaned, preferably by a professional cleaning company that will get that nitty gritty layer of dirt that home owners often just don’t see. Finally, ensure your front yard looks inviting, so a prospective buyer’s first impression is a good one. Hire people you trust. Once you’ve moved and are in a different city or province, you won’t be able to check in on your still-owned home – so you’ll need others to do it for you. Hire a property management company to take care of the yard and home itself, ensuring it stays clean and inviting for potential buyers. In addition, be sure to hire a real estate agent who is on the ball and doesn’t mind keeping you updated and informed about any progress made toward the sale of your home. Even though moving before selling your home is not always ideal, there can be advantages. For example, studies have shown that an unoccupied but professionally staged or furnished home often sells faster and for a higher price than those cluttered with an occupant’s belongings. In addition, it’s far easier for an agent to show the home since he or she doesn’t have to coordinate with your schedule. So look at the bright side, get prepared, and cross your fingers that your home will sell quickly! --- David Shapiro is a marketing specialist for moving companies such as Allied Van Lines. He loves to travel, hike, and play basketball. Related Stories on Winnipeg's Real Estate Blog Convenient Home Moving Checklist for home and condo buyers Preparing your furniture before moving to a new home in Winnipeg Home Buying in #Winnipeg is a team effort - Winnipeg Real Estate Blog