The market is moving fast, and the best homes are getting scooped up quickly. If you’re looking to upgrade to a home that better suits your family’s needs, you need a plan. The key to success? Preparation, strategy, and working with the right people.

Step 1: Hire a Pro Who Knows the Market

A skilled Realtor makes all the difference. You need someone who understands the local market, has experience navigating competitive situations, and can help you win. The right agent will guide you through every step of the process—whether you’re selling, buying, or both. (If you don’t have an agent yet, let’s talk!)

Step 2: Create a Budget and a List of Must-Haves

Before you start house hunting, take a step back and get clear on your finances and priorities:
✔️ Work with your Realtor and lender to determine what you can afford
✔️ Understand how much cash you’ll need for a down payment and closing costs
✔️ Make a list of what you need vs. what you want in your next home

Knowing your numbers and your non-negotiables will help you move quickly when the right home becomes available.

Step 3: Decide If You Want to Buy or Sell First

This is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make in the process. Which risk is greater for you?

• Selling First:
  ✅ You know exactly how much you’re working with
  ✅ Can make a strong offer with fewer contingencies
  ❌ May need short-term housing if you don’t have a new home lined up
• Buying First:
  ✅ More time to find the right home without pressure
  ✅ Easier to move at your own pace
  ❌ Harder to qualify for a mortgage and may require creative financing

Some strategies allow you to close on both homes the same day, but if that’s not an option, you’ll need to decide which risk you’re more comfortable with—owning zero houses (selling first) or owning two houses (buying first).

Step 4: Get Your Home Market-Ready

Even if you’re not listing your home right away, you want to be ready if the perfect house pops up. That means:
✔️ Decluttering and tackling minor repairs
✔️ Having a general idea of your home’s current value (I can help with that!)
✔️ Understanding your financing options

Preparation is key—homes are selling fast, and the more ready you are, the better position you’ll be in when it’s time to make a move.

Ready to Win in Today’s Market?

Whether you’re looking to sell, buy, or both, I’ll help you put a plan in place so you can make your next move with confidence.