With a precipitous rise in Atlanta real estate prices, many sellers have taken advantage of the increase in equity in their property by putting their homes on the market and selling for top dollar. Which is marvelous, of course, until you stop to consider where you would move or what you would do once your home is sold. The comment I hear most frequently is “I’d love to sell my home, given its current high value, but I don’t know where I would move.”

There are so many of you out there who, while understanding your property is worth a lot more than it once was, are reticent to move – because WHERE would you move, given the high prices everywhere? I get this question a lot, so here are some ideas from clients who have made the leap:

BUY IN AN UNDERVALUED AREA. If you are selling to capitalize on the high sales prices currently (i.e., are doing so for financial reasons) you might consider buying in a different area that hasn’t appreciated as much as your neighborhood. There are many such areas around Atlanta, and we are experts at helping you identify them. While the “buy low” part of the “sell high, buy low” equation is difficult in this strong seller’s market, it’s still possible in some areas, and we can help you find them.

LOCK AND LEAVE. Many of our sellers of large homes are deciding to opt for an easier lock and leave lifestyle of a condo or townhome. Some buildings even have concierge services that will sign for your packages and take care of your property while you are away. In addition, generally speaking, condos and townhomes have not appreciated to the extent single family homes have appreciated, and thus we can help you find a deal.

RENT. While rents are high also, renting gives you the chance to try a new part of town (perhaps one that is undervalued compared to where you are moving from) and gives you time to consider where you want to move and whether a new area of town, a new larger or smaller home or a different architectural style might work for you. Many of our clients have decided to rent after selling at top dollar. Some, like Rebecca & Chris, are considering building a new home and in the meantime are enjoying the laid back renting lifestyle where someone else takes care of maintenance and repair.

55+ COMMUNITIES. If you’ve been thinking about retiring to a retirement community, now may be the exact right time. We have a wide variety available in and around Atlanta, and because homes are selling quickly you won’t have the typical concern of “when will my house sell?”  The answer is that generally, right now, it will sell right away, and you can easily make your move.

VACATION ALWAYS. Some sellers are moving to vacation properties or second homes that they already own (or will purchase). Since increasingly employees can work from anywhere, this is a great option for many.

If you’re thinking about selling, please contact us. We can help you sell your current home at top dollar, and help you figure out what moving option is best for you –  and we are happy to help!