New job offer in a new city? Or maybe you want your kids to be able to start to school year in their new school, but haven’t sold your house yet. Whatever the case, sometimes you have to move before your house is sold.
If your house is on the market or perhaps isn’t even listed yet, then trying to sell it while you’re in a new town–or even in the same town in a new house–can be more of a challenge.
There are a number of things you should do to ensure your house remains secure, retains its curb appeal and sells as quickly as possible, including:
If you’re selling long distance you’ll have to rely on your Realtor more than if you still lived in the house. Stay updated on how many people are viewing the house and what the feedback is.
Try to leave some of your furnishings in the house. A furnished house is much more attractive than an empty one.
If you have any Energy Star appliances, leave the paperwork and copies of your energy bills that show the money you’ve saved.
If your home will be vacant, consider leaving some photos behind of the furnished rooms.
Hire someone to mow your lawn, rake leaves, or shovel snow. Spruce up your landscaping with shrubs, ground cover, annuals.
Freshen up with neutral colored paint.
Get your carpets professionally cleaned.
You may want to invest in exterior sensor lights. Cancel your newspaper subscription. If you have a security system, use it, but leave your entrance code with your real estate agent.
Review the provisions of your homeowners insurance. How long coverage will last while your home is vacant.