After a few years of owning and living in a house, it’s normal and inevitable to want to shake things up. Here, we discuss 5 tell-tale signs that it’s time to jump ship or upgrade your home.
- You’re making more money
Perhaps you had to settle for the house you now live in based on what you could afford years ago. But now that you’ve been promoted, gotten a higher-paying job, or your business is doing well, it may be time to rethink your current digs.
Did you always want a home with an expansive lawn? Bigger outdoor and indoor spaces to entertain friends and family? Or maybe you’ve turned into a fitness buff and would like to have your own home gym?
If the ideal is now within reach, consider the leap. Check out available properties online. Compare list prices and amenities. Make a few calls to agents operating within the area you may want to move to. Consult the family. Most of all, keep the dream alive.
- Wear and tear are starting to show
Even the most regular and most meticulous cleaning routines can’t keep your home in brand-new condition forever. Water damage is unavoidable in parts of your house like the kitchen and bathrooms. Floors and walls are constantly used and exposed to dirt, spills, and – in the case of outdoor sidings – the elements.
A cosmetic change like updating your flooring, repairing and repainting the walls, and installing new countertops may be all you need to bring that fresh, exciting feeling back into your living spaces.
- You are planning to put your house on the market
Even if your sale is months away, you can get a good head start by preparing your home with smart renovation projects that will make your property more attractive to buyers.
Ask a reliable local real estate professional about the sought-after home features that buyers look for in your neighborhood. Invest in these upgrades to produce greater returns for your property.
- Your family is outgrowing your starter home
Homes tend to “shrink” radically as years go by, especially for first-time homeowners. What may have started out as a perfect, cozy little retreat for a young couple will soon feel crowded and even restrictive as little bundles of joy are added to the mix. Years later, siblings who share rooms might also demand individual personal quarters.
More people means more stuff, too – and typically less space for stashing them. When your shelves, cabinets, countertops, and even extra storage closets get too cluttered, it’s time to find a larger house.
- The market is doing well
Seller-friendly market conditions can be the green light that you’ve been waiting for to upgrade to a bigger and better next home. Take advantage of this timing to make a profitable sale and fund a meaningful upgrade.
While you can keep an eye on real estate news on your own, tapping the services of a knowledgeable local real estate professional will pay dividends in getting you started on the ight foot on your upgrade journey.
For more advice on how to make the best of your Chicagoland home living, browse the website for tips. For inquiries on buying or selling property, call our real estate specialists at 847.971.0674 or email rjames(at)askunique(dotted)com.