Today Jessica has written an informative article for any pet owner considering a move to downsize. This is an exclusive article just for us and we know you will enjoy it.
Thank you Jessica for sharing and we hope to read more of your work in the future!
There are two main things to take care of when you’re downsizing. One of these is to sell your current home. The other one is to find and purchase a smaller home. Ensure the smaller home is pet-friendly, so your furry animals can remain safe when you move. Loyal Pit Bull Love presents some tips that will make this process a little less stressful.
Prepare the Home to SellYou have to get your home ready to sell before you even put it on the market. Routine maintenance helps keep the home in good condition and presentable when the time comes to sell it. Make sure the outside of the home looks nice so that it makes a great first impression on prospective buyers. Ensure the landscaping is neat and tidy, and have the roof inspected and any defects fixed.
Also, clean the gutters. While you might be tempted to do this yourself, this is a job that’s better suited for a professional. They can clean the gutters and possibly repair any minor damage that’s present. Expect to pay an average of $106 to $167, but larger homes may run upwards of $350 for a full gutter cleaning.
Taking care of repairs, such as fixing leaking pipes, can also help with the sale of the home. Complete any updates you can afford that might increase the sale price or appeal of the home. Some repairs, such as fixing broken windows, can improve the security of the home, which is appealing to potential buyers.
Find Your New, Smaller, Pet-Friendly HomeOnce you decide to sell your current home, you need to look for a new home. Start by making a list of the features you want it to have, so your real estate professional can help you find good possibilities. At a minimum, you need to know the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you want. Make note of any pet-related features, such as a spacious fenced-in yard, that the home must include.
Also, consider the down payment and closing costs that you need to pay. Making sure you have the funds available to do this is important when you’re hunting for a home.
You need to know the price range you can afford for a new home. Getting preapproval for a mortgage is necessary. Look at the available rates, so you know what to expect. There are differences between conventional, VA, and FHA loans. Taking a look at all the mortgage types you qualify for, as well as speaking to a mortgage lender about your options, can help you to determine which one is the best one for your needs.
Make the Process as Easy as PossibleMaking the process of selling your current home and buying a new one as easy as possible is a priority. Planning your steps and creating a checklist can make things go a bit smoother.