With a housing market shortage happening, is now a good time to sell your home? Consider these questions and tips before doing so.

Has a realtor approached you with promises of a significant return on selling your home? The prospect of a great deal might have you envisioning dollar signs. However, before you jump into listing your property, it's important to consider a few key questions.

Is your home mortgage-free?

In the United States, mortgage loans are the most common type of personal debt. Paying off your mortgage is a remarkable achievement as it not only reduces your debt burden, but it also puts extra money in your pocket for saving and spending.There are many benefits to having your home paid off.

• Protection in Unstable Housing Markets
  During times of housing market instability, homeowners often worry about paying their mortgages amidst a large-scale financial crisis. By owning your home outright, you eliminate the burden of a monthly mortgage payment. In an unstable market, where home values may decline, homeowners trying to sell often face challenges. However, if your home is mortgage-free, you can afford to wait for the housing market to improve, allowing your property to increase in value.
• Financial Freedom
  Paying off your mortgage frees up a significant amount of monthly income. You can utilize these funds to pay off any remaining debts, boost your emergency fund, or pursue other financial goals. If your financial situation is solid, you might even consider using the extra money for a vacation or to enjoy your favorite hobbies.
• Pay off Other Debts
  One of the primary advantages of paying off your mortgage is achieving greater financial security in the long-run. With increased budget flexibility, it's a wise idea to focus on paying off other debts you may have. Whether it's college loans, credit cards, or utility bills, eliminating these debts can improve your credit score, reduce long-term interest payments, and alleviate emotional or mental burdens.

Are you retired?

Retirement often prompts a desire to downsize or move to a new location. Before making any decisions, evaluate the equity in your home. If it's low, selling might help reduce your monthly housing costs. Additionally, if you're close to paying off your home, you may face the question of whether or not to pay off your mortgage entirely. Paying off your mortgage can provide extra funds that you haven't had access to in a while, which can be used for house renovations or increasing your savings.

Benefits of Selling:

• Influx of Funds:
  Selling your home in a healthy and stable market can significantly boost your retirement funds. Owning your home outright and having substantial equity can yield a substantial profit. If you choose to remain in your current home, you have the option to sell whenever it suits you. Furthermore, there is a possibility that your home's value will appreciate over time.
• Reduced Maintenance Costs
  As a home ages, maintenance requirements tend to increase. Whether you handle the maintenance yourself or hire professionals, the costs can add up. Moving to a newer home with advanced technology and updated features can save you money in the long run by minimizing repair expenses.
• Finding Your Ideal Home
  Throughout life, our idea of an ideal home may change. Factors like school districts and proximity to work may become less important in retirement. Instead, being close to family, grandchildren, or your favorite vacation spot might take priority.

Benefits of Staying in Your Home:

• Customization to Your Liking
  If you have already made modifications to your home that suit your needs, you may be less inclined to move. Accessibility renovations, such as flooring modifications, handrails, and walk-in tubs or showers can make your current home more comfortable and functional.
• Emotional Attachment
  Selling a home is an emotional decision. Consider the memories and sentimental value attached to your current residence. Take the time to reflect on whether you are truly ready to leave a place that holds so many valuable memories.

Are you prepared for the costs that come along with a low inventory market?

Housing prices remain high with low inventory. The scarcity of available homes gives sellers significant bargaining power. It increases the likelihood of receiving multiple offers, cash offers, and offers above the asking price. If you already have your eyes on a promising property and are considering selling, waiting for a more balanced market could be a strategic move. It won't negatively impact your chances of securing the best price for your home when the time comes to sell. In a balanced market, multiple offers and prices significantly above the listing price are less common. Nevertheless, you can still expect to see positive gains in your home's value.

Thinking about renting until the market stabilizes? Consider the costs.

If you have paid off your mortgage, renting alone can significantly increase your monthly expenses. Typically, after selling a home, the next step is to rent or buy a less expensive property. However, the long-term costs of owning a home might be lower than renting. When considering renting, remember to factor in costs beyond the monthly rent payment, such as security deposits, utility bills, moving costs, and various fees associated with renting.
The current state of the housing market and your personal circumstances should guide your decision-making process. Asking yourself these questions and considering your options can help you determine whether selling your home is the right choice for you.

Sources:

Can I afford to retire if I sell my home while prices are high? My plan is to rent and wait for prices to fall, Market Watch

Why You Should (and Shouldn’t) Sell Your Home in 2021, US News

Benefits of Paying off Your Mortgage, Investopedia

Am I ready to Sell My House?, Ramsey Solutions

The information provided in these articles is intended for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as the opinion of Central Bancompany, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and does not imply endorsement or support of any of the mentioned information, products, services, or providers. All information presented is without any representation, guaranty, or warranty regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.

Category: Family & Estate