The Timeline of Selling and Buying Your Next Home

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re ready to level up from your starter home to something that fits your growing family like a glove. Well, first off, congrats! You’re embarking on an exciting journey, and I’m here to spill the beans on what to expect when it comes to the timeline of selling and buying your next home!

So, let’s talk timeline. How long does this whole shebang take? Buckle up, because I’m about to take you on a ride through the real estate time machine.

Stage 1: Preparing Your Home for Sale (2-4 Weeks)

Before you can pop that “For Sale” sign in your front yard, it’s time to whip your current digs into tip-top shape. This phase typically takes around 2 to 4 weeks, depending on how much TLC your home needs. From decluttering and depersonalizing to fixing up any minor repairs, this is your chance to showcase your home’s best features and make potential buyers swoon.

Stage 2: Listing and Showings (Variable)

Once your home is looking spick and span, it’s time to let the world know it’s up for grabs. Cue the professional photos, catchy listing descriptions, and maybe even a virtual tour or two. The duration of this stage can vary widely based on market conditions, but expect to schedule showings and open houses to reel in those interested buyers.

Stage 3: Negotiating Offers (1-2 Weeks)

Hot dog! You’ve got offers rolling in. Now it’s time for the negotiations. This phase typically lasts anywhere from 1 to 2 weeks as you go back and forth with potential buyers to hammer out the nitty-gritty details like price, contingencies, and closing dates.

Stage 4: Under Contract (30-60 Days)

Once you’ve accepted an offer, it’s time to pop the bubbly, right? Well, hold onto your champagne flutes because you’ve still got some hoops to jump through. The period from going under contract to closing can take around 30 to 60 days on average. During this time, inspections will be conducted, appraisals will be ordered, and all the necessary paperwork will be shuffled back and forth like a game of real estate hot potato.

Stage 5: Finding Your Next Home (Variable)

While all the behind-the-scenes stuff is happening with the sale of your current home, it’s time to shift your focus to finding your next dream abode. This phase can range anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your specific wants and needs, as well as what’s available on the market.

Stage 6: Closing on Your New Digs (30-45 Days)

Hooray! You’ve found “the one” and sealed the deal. Now it’s time to dot those i’s and cross those t’s. The closing process for your new home typically takes around 30 to 45 days from the time your offer is accepted. During this time, inspections will be conducted, financing will be finalized, and all the necessary legal documents will be signed, sealed, and delivered.

The Grand Finale: Moving Day!

With keys in hand and hearts aflutter, it’s finally time to make the leap to your new abode. Whether you’re hiring movers or rallying the troops for a DIY adventure, moving day is the cherry on top of your real estate sundae.

And there you have it, folks! While the timeline for selling and buying your next home can vary based on a plethora of factors, this rough roadmap should give you a good idea of what to expect along the way. So, grab your calendar, buckle up, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime in the wonderful world of real estate! If you have more questions about the buying and selling process, send me a message!