How to Deal With The Stress of Selling A House

Understanding the Stress of Selling a Home

Selling your home is likely to induce stress because much of the process is beyond your control. Prospective sellers often find themselves in a waiting game – waiting for potential buyers to visit, waiting for higher offers, waiting for loan approvals, and finally, waiting for the deal to seal.

According to recent research conducted by Zillow, over a third of home sellers find the process so stressful that they have ended up crying. Many participants stated that the stress they endured while selling their property surpassed that of wedding planning or the fear of job loss.

Identifying Stress Triggers in the Selling Process

The selling process can be daunting with negotiations, marketing strategies, and unfamiliar rules. Here are the three main areas that cause stress for home sellers:

Time Constraints

A majority of sellers reported that the most stressful aspect of selling was the uncertainty of whether their home would sell on time. This concern arises when you need to sell your current property to finance your next one. If the sale doesn’t happen in a suitable timeframe, you might have to forgo the purchase of your future home.

Pricing Concerns

The final sale price of the home is another significant stressor for sellers. A home is often seen as an investment, and it can be challenging to accept an offer lower than what you had envisioned. According to Zillow, over half of the sellers had to reduce their sale price at least once before selling.

Reasons for Selling

The third major stressor is the reason for selling the home. Approximately 45% of families relocate due to significant life events. These events could be positive, like a better job opportunity, expanding the family, or getting married. On the flip side, they could also be distressing, such as the death of a family member, a divorce, or foreclosure.

Finding a Real Estate Specialist

To alleviate the stress of selling your house, it can be beneficial to hire a professional real estate agent. They can provide a wealth of knowledge and experience to help navigate the process.

Opting for Quick Sale and No Open Houses

A quick sale, or a short sale, is an option for properties on the brink of foreclosure. Quick sales can be a stress-free solution for sellers who need to relocate quickly and do not want to manage the property from afar. With quick sales, there are no frequent showings or protracted negotiations with potential buyers, significantly reducing the time sellers have to wait for their home sale to close.

Avoiding Procrastination in the Home Selling Process

Since time is a major stress trigger for sellers, it is crucial not to let too much time pass during the selling process. Protracted property contracts increase the likelihood that the home sale might fall through. Aim to keep your home sale timeline to three months or less.

Setting Time Restrictions for Showings

Avoid the added stress of keeping your home ready for showings at all times. Instead, discuss with your real estate agent about setting specific times for showings and open houses, such as when you are away on vacation or during work or school hours.

Deciding Whether to Buy or Sell First

Choosing whether to buy or sell first can help reduce the stress of having to sell within a specific timeframe. This decision depends on various factors, including your local housing market and your current financial situation.

Working with an Experienced Agent

Collaborating with a skilled real estate agent is crucial for a successful home sale. Start your search for a real estate professional at least 90 days before listing your home to ensure you have adequate time to find a reputable agent.

Start Searching for a Real Estate Professional Early

Starting your search early can prevent you from hastily choosing an agent who may not have your best interests at heart. By giving yourself 90 days to find an agent, you can choose a professional you feel comfortable working with and give them enough time to prepare your home for the market.

Finding a Top-Rated Agent Online

Companies like Fast Expert simplify the process of finding a top-rated agent online. You can search, compare, and hire directly on their website, where agents are ranked based on recent sales and customer reviews.

Getting Your House Ready in Advance

Preparing your home for sale early can help prevent the stress of last-minute renovations.

Boosting Curb Appeal

Enhancing your home’s curb appeal can make a great first impression on potential buyers. Pay special attention to key areas such as the home’s exterior, the living room, and the kitchen.

Determining Essential Home Improvements

Before undertaking any major home improvements, consult with your real estate agent to ensure it’s worthwhile. If necessary, focus on high-ROI renovations like replacing appliances, upgrading the kitchen and bathrooms, and repairing or replacing the roof.

Conclusion

Selling your home can be a stressful experience, but by choosing the right agent and preparing your home for sale in advance, you can significantly reduce the stress associated with selling your house.