I often work with families in Fort Worth that are looking to remain in Fort Worth but move up or switch neighborhoods, et cetera. Now, I normally do not have any problems with an expecting couple that lives in a two bedroom Arlington Heights bungalow–they must move. Putting their current home on the market and finding a larger home and yard for them is similar to a home owner that is transferred to another city: Listing? Check. Referred to an agent in their new city in order to purchase their next home quickly? Double Check.
But it’s those that would like to move from South Hills (typically a starter neighborhood) to Ridglea Hills (an older, more charming neighborhood with larger homes and lots) just because that are the most interesting to me and the most difficult to help. One of the most luring aspects of this breed of seller/buyer: the woman heads it all. She initiates the call to the REALTOR®, sets up showings, and starts to tidy her home to prepare for FOR SALE conditions. My close rate on in-town movers is very low and I totally understand why. What Mom has time to keep her house clean, pack for a new home that she doesn’t even know exists yet, coordinate schedules, showings, and talk her husband into doubling their mortgage payment?? It begs the question:
What Would June Cleaver Do?
The Cleaver family did one of these in-town moves in season three when they moved from Mapleton to Pine Street (according to wikipedia). Did the sitcom capture June eloquently meeting with the REALTORS®, selling her current home and effortlessly moving her two sons and hard working husband ’round the corner? Absolutely not! This is no easy task. The move was probably Ward’s decision anyway.
The June Cleavers of the new millennium should do it their own way:
- Do what you can and delegate the rest.
- Get on the same page as your husband when choosing whether to move forward or not.
- When you do choose to move forward: commit.
- Make a list of the reasons that you will move and put a time line on it (6 months to a year is a reasonable time frame–no need to be in a huge hurry).
- Of course, find a great REALTOR® that can make the transition as smooth as possible.
Keep in mind that we help the seller/buyer combo transition on a daily basis. It is possible!
Courtesy of Rugosa Rosa
I would like to buy the house in that photo, please! Who cares if I can’t furnish it – love it!
Btw–I totally get the “we would looove to move.” The question for us is, “As much as we’d love to, CAN we do it now?” I wonder if its the same for a lot of people?
Absolutely! Even when these combo clients are approved, it’s an incredibly overwhelming situation. That’s why the time frame and list to remind you why you’re moving helps!
I remember that episode when they moved, in reruns. With interest rates like they are, Ward would move today if she wanted him to.
Of course, having a REALTOR® who has a good understanding of the tasks at hand will make the whole process smoother. Jordan, you are such a hard worker; and so sophisticated in real estate!