How to Buy, Sell, and Move Just Once with Confidence in Today's Market

Making major real estate decisions can be daunting even in normal times. But the pandemic brought about a double whammy to complicate these transactions: our capabilities have been limited, and financial situations perhaps more unstable. At the same time, many factors have homeowners looking to make big moves: historically low interest rates, and the fact that Chicagoland housing markets went from lockdown slumber to rapidfire activity. Navigating this crazy market with confidence is key, but it can be tough to quickly weigh all of the factors knowing that your dream house may already have other offers.

Here's a unique approach. Instead of relying on a potentially endless amount of hassle at the back end of the deal, work with your agent on the front end, or before your home even hits the market. Such an approach will make you feel significantly more confident throughout, get you the outcome you're looking for, and once the first move is made, it's all over and you can enjoy your newly improved life. As for what this looks like in action, you can start by getting all of the needed inspections and repairs done in advance. These may take some time, but by putting in this time now, you're avoiding having a deal held up by the exact same items. Get all of your pre-approvals in line and require that buyers have them ready too--in this market, you can probably afford to be a bit more strict.

In terms of timing, here are a couple options to make the deal work when you want it to: instead of waiting until your home is under contract to make serious moves towards buying your next one, you could start the process of both at the same time. If that isn't an option or your agent advises against it in your situation, you can also see if the buyers of your old home will consider a contingency clause to allow you time to find a new home. Contingency clauses, which are rapidly becoming more common, allow you to put your home under contract contingent upon you finding your new home within, say, 30 days. In quick-moving markets, they can be a solid bet and the ultimate tool for peace of mind.

In an era where consumers have an unprecedented amount of information at their fingertips, the role of the agent is changing. Agents now are here to listen to your specific needs and preferences, help you decode the madness of the markets, then guide you through a breeze of an experience. Your Baird & Warner agent is ready to help you sell safely, and only have to move once.