Selling a home brings with it a sizable dose of uncertainty as well as a heaping helping of stress. It’s no wonder that home sellers can feel anxious or depressed during the process. Although it’s common to feel a little overwhelmed, it doesn’t have to overtake your life. Here are several tried-and-true ways to beat the home selling blues.
Prepare
You know the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”? It applies to the home selling process as well. By preparing as much as you can before you list your house, you’ll alleviate many of the headaches you may otherwise encounter. Make any needed repairs and declutter your home before listing. Do some research about your local market so you know what price range houses like yours are selling for. Read up on the steps of the home selling process so you know what to expect. You can’t prepare for everything, but you can familiarize yourself with what’s ahead.
Keep things in perspective
We totally understand that now is a stressful time. But always keep in mind that this process won’t drag on forever. Yes, you may have some stressful days ahead. But soon you’ll reach closing day and this process will become a memory. Remember that you can’t always control every aspect of a situation. Try not to worry too much, as it will only make you unhappy and the worry is unlikely to affect the outcome.
Take time outs
While selling your home will take a good chunk of your time, you don’t have to spend every waking moment thinking about it. That will only add to your stress. Instead, take some time outs now and again. Go for a walk. Get a massage. Take the family to dinner and a movie. Spend time with family and friends. You’ll need your energy during this process, so taking time out to care for your emotional well being is paramount.
Remember why you’re selling
Selling your home is an emotional process. After all, it’s the center of your life and it’s the place where many of your fondest memories have been made. Perhaps you raised your family here. Not only are you making a financial transaction, but you’re also letting go of something that has been important to your life. Allow yourself time to detach emotionally from the house, and remember the positive reasons why you are selling. Maybe you’re upgrading to a bigger house or moving closer to your grown children. Perhaps you’ve gotten an exciting new job in a new city. Acknowledge that you’re feeling a sense of loss, but that the future also holds possibility for new and exciting experiences.
Work with a professional
Finally, the best way to get through the process with the least amount of stress is to work with a professional real estate agent. Seasoned agents know what to expect and can give you solid advice and guidance throughout the entire process. Partnering with a professional will ease the burden on you and help you get to the finish line with your sanity intact.
