We understand the unique challenges this scenario presents, and we've got some invaluable insights to make the process smoother for you. We have sold several homes since having children and we can speak from experience.
1. Embrace the Chaos, But Minimize It
First things first, let's acknowledge the elephant in the room: selling a home with kids can be chaotic. But fear not, we've weathered many storms, and we're here to tell you that embracing the chaos is the first step. However, to keep things manageable, declutter and start packing extra things up. Potential buyers need to envision themselves in your home, and minimizing distractions will help them do just that. It will also help you have less to maintain daily while your home is on the market.
2. Change Things Up
What do we mean by this? Consider using only one bathroom while your home is on the market. Then you only have one bathroom to clean up and get ready for showings. Same with your living space. If you have more than one that you use, try just using one for a bit. If doing dishes and keeping your kitchen clean aren’t your strong suit, use disposable dishes or eat out while your homes is on the market.
3. Timing is Everything
As real estate agents and parents, we understand the delicate balance of scheduling showings and maintaining a sense of normalcy for your little ones. We would discuss with you how we can structure showings to help minimize the inconvenience. This will allow you to get your home ready less often. Flexibility is key, so we'll work with you to find the sweet spot that suits your family and your schedules.
4. Turn Cleanup Into a Game
Let's turn a potentially tedious task into a fun family activity. Get the kids involved in the cleaning process by making it a game. Set a timer and challenge them to see who can tidy up the fastest. Not only does this make cleaning more enjoyable, but it also instills a sense of responsibility in your little helpers. Another tip is to greatly downsize toys. Let’s be real, our kids have so many toys they don’t really even play with. Keep their favorites and pack up the rest!
5. Capture the Charm of Family Living
One of our favorite aspects of selling homes with families is highlighting the charm that comes with it. Consider leaving out some family photos or a tasteful drawing from your little artist. These personal touches can create an emotional connection with potential buyers, making your home stand out in their minds. Shows buyers that a family has enjoyed living in the home.
Selling a home while living with children may seem like a daunting task, but with our expertise and guidance, it's entirely achievable. Our goal is to always minimize the amount of time your home is on the market so keeping your home “show” ready won’t be for too long. If you're ready to take the next step, reach out to us today for a personalized consultation. Let's turn the page to a new chapter in your family's story.
