Is it time to sell? Here are six signs that it might be

You've loved living in your home but the time has come for you to move on. Maybe your children have left the nest and you need a smaller house. Or maybe you need more space to accommodate a growing family. Or perhaps you just want to move to be closer to your friends or your new office. 

"Whatever your reason for selling, we know that it's not always an easy decision to make," says Berry Everitt, CEO of the Chas Everitt International property group. "You may have been thinking about it for a few years or perhaps it's a snap decision based on a sudden life change. People's time frames and reasons for selling vary widely, but listen to your instinct if it's telling you that it's time to find a new home."

We've compiled six ways to be sure that it's time to order those moving boxes and start packing your bags:

1. Your home is too big or too small for you

If you find yourself needing more bedrooms, a bigger garden or space for a home office - it's a sure sign that you've outgrown your current home. Alternatively, if your kids have moved out and you're looking for a smaller home that requires less maintenance and takes less time to clean, then you're ready to downsize.  

2. Your financial situation has changed 

If you're struggling with debt, facing financial difficulties and can no longer afford the bond repayments or upkeep of your home, selling the property may be a viable solution. Downsizing to a smaller home or relocating to a less expensive area could reduce your housing costs and provide much-needed relief.

3. The local real estate market is thriving

In a seller's market, you stand to make a nice profit on your property. If the local real estate market is hot, with high demand, you may be able to sell your property quickly and for a higher price. Keep an eye on local real estate trends and work with a trusted property professional to determine if now is the right time to put your home on the market.

4. You're struggling to keep up with maintenance

You fell in love with the huge garden or the beautiful older home but you now realise it's just too much maintenance for you and it's too costly to outsource. Not only is it an emotional drain - but it's becoming a financial one too. When maintenance is draining your bank account and energy, it's probably time to think about selling.

5. Your home needs extensive repairs or renovations

If your home needs significant repairs or renovations, you might consider selling instead of investing time and money into fixing it up. Depending on the extent of the repairs needed, it might not make financial sense to pay for them, especially if you no longer love your home or it no longer meets your needs.

6. You're ready for a change

Sometimes, it's just time for a change. Perhaps you're looking for a new adventure or a different lifestyle, or maybe you want to move closer to family or live in a sunnier climate. If you find yourself daydreaming about a different life, it's probably time to consider selling your home and making a move.

Selling your home is a personal decision and will depend on your life circumstances. It's important to carefully consider your options and work with a trusted property professional to make the best choice for yourself and your family. With the right approach and guidance, selling your home can be a smooth and successful process.

For any advice or answers to your property-related questions, chat to an experienced Chas Everitt estate agent today.