When Family Comes First: Helping a Homeowner Sell and Move Closer to Home

Last year I worked with a family whose decision had little to do with the market. They wanted to be near their family back east, and they decided that mattered more than waiting for their home to appreciate.

They had bought at the height of the bidding wars in 2022, paying more than the home would likely be worth today. Then they put significant money into improving it. When we met in November, they proudly walked me through everything they had done, and every choice was a good one. Those improvements were going to help the home sell.

The hard part was my job: telling them honestly that they would lose money on the sale. I felt awful delivering that news. But a good listing conversation starts with the real numbers, and they deserved to hear them from someone who cared how it landed.

They also had projects that weren't visible at a glance. A few were half finished, and there was a foundation crack that needed sealing, along with a list of smaller items. I knew they were eager to move, but I encouraged them to finish what they'd started, tie up the loose ends, and list in the spring. Buyers notice unfinished work, and so do inspectors.

It took longer than we hoped. But the home sold, and they used the proceeds to buy a much bigger home with a yard and a garage near their family.

What I'd want any seller to take from this

• Start with the honest numbers. Even difficult news is easier to plan around than a surprise.

• Finish what you've started. Completed projects and a tidy list of repairs help a home show well and keep a sale on track.

• Match the timing to your life. The market matters, but so do the people you're moving toward.

If you're thinking about a move, even a few years from now, I'm happy to have a no-pressure conversation. You can reach me at 405-365-6687 or carlalanedenver.com.