Tips for Relocating When You Own a House in Pennsylvania

In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips on how to navigate the process of selling your house in Pennsylvania while relocating. Whether you choose to sell your house for cash, go through a traditional home sale, or sell it yourself, we have you covered.

We’ll also discuss the importance of scheduling a property appraisal and a home inspection, as well as provide guidance on organizing your move. So, if you’re planning a relocation and need to sell your house in Pennsylvania, keep reading for useful insights and advice.

1. Determine How You’re Going to Sell Your House

Deciding how to sell your house is one of the first steps to take when planning a relocation. There are various options available, each with its own advantages and considerations.

Cash Home Sale

If you’re looking for a quick and hassle-free sale, selling your house for cash might be a viable option. Cash home buyers are investors who purchase homes as-is, without the need for repairs or renovations.

This can be particularly advantageous if you’re relocating and don’t have the time or resources to invest in preparing your house for the market. Additionally, a cash home sale eliminates the need for extensive negotiations and the risk of deals falling through due to financing issues.

Traditional Home Sale

Opting for a traditional home sale involves listing your house on the market with the assistance of a real estate agent. This route provides the potential for a higher sale price, as you can attract a broader range of buyers.

However, it might also require more time and effort, including staging your home, hosting open houses, and negotiating offers. If you have the luxury of time and are willing to invest in preparing your house for sale, a traditional home sale could be a suitable choice.

For Sale by Owner

Selling your house on your own, known as a For Sale by Owner (FSBO) transaction, gives you full control over the selling process. It allows you to save on real estate agent commissions and have a direct connection with potential buyers.

However, it’s important to note that FSBO requires a significant amount of time, effort, and real estate knowledge. You’ll be responsible for pricing your home correctly, marketing it effectively, and negotiating with potential buyers. If you’re willing to put in the work and have a good understanding of the local market, selling your house as an FSBO can be a rewarding experience.

2. Schedule a Property Appraisal

Before selling your house, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of its value. This is where a property appraisal plays a vital role.

What is an appraisal? An appraisal is an unbiased assessment of your property’s market value conducted by a licensed appraiser. They evaluate various factors, including the condition of your house, comparable sales in the area, and current market conditions, to determine its worth.

Why should I hire an appraiser? Hiring an appraiser provides you with an accurate estimate of your house’s value. It ensures that you don’t underprice or overprice your property, maximizing your chances of a successful sale.

What should I look for in an appraiser? When choosing an appraiser, make sure they are licensed, experienced, and knowledgeable about local market conditions. Ask for references and check their credentials to ensure you’re working with a reputable professional.

How can I use a home appraiser to my advantage as a home seller? Once you receive the appraisal report, you can use it as a negotiation tool with potential buyers. It provides you with solid evidence of your house’s value, allowing you to justify your asking price and negotiate from a position of knowledge.

3. Schedule a Home Inspection

A home inspection is an essential step when selling your house, regardless of the selling method you choose. It helps identify any potential issues or repairs that may arise during the transaction, providing peace of mind to both you and the buyer.

What is a home inspection? A home inspection is a thorough examination of your property’s condition, conducted by a professional inspector. They assess the overall structure, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and other important aspects of your house.

Why is an inspection important when selling my home? An inspection offers transparency to potential buyers, assuring them that the house is in good condition or alerting them to any necessary repairs. It helps build trust and confidence in your property, increasing the likelihood of a successful sale.

What do home inspectors look for? Home inspectors evaluate various aspects of your house, including the foundation, roof, walls, insulation, windows, doors, and major systems. They look for signs of structural damage, safety hazards, water leaks, electrical issues, and other potential problems.

4. Organizing Your Move

Relocating can be a stressful process, but with proper organization, it can also be smooth and efficient. Here are some tips to help you organize your move while selling your house in Pennsylvania.

Hire a moving company: Research and select a reputable moving company that can assist you with the logistics of your move. Obtain quotes from multiple companies and compare their services and prices to make an informed decision.

Packing tips and strips: Use quality packing materials, such as sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape, to protect your belongings during the move. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, making the unpacking process easier.

Declutter and get rid of unwanted items: Moving provides an excellent opportunity to declutter your belongings. Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or sell. By minimizing your load, you’ll save on moving costs and have a fresh start in your new home.

5. Steps to a Cash Home Sale

If you are selling your house as-is to a cash home buyer, here are the steps to completing and closing the sale:

1. Contact a cash home buyer: Reach out to reputable cash home buyers in your area and provide them with details about your property.
2. Schedule a walkthrough: The cash home buyer will schedule a time to view your property and assess its condition.
3. Receive a cash offer: After evaluating your house, the cash home buyer will present you with a fair cash offer based on its value.
4. Accept the offer: If you’re satisfied with the cash offer, you can proceed to accept it and move forward with the sale.
5. Close the sale: Work with the cash home buyer to complete the necessary paperwork and finalize the sale. The process is typically faster and smoother than traditional home sales, allowing you to quickly proceed with your relocation plans.

Benefits of a Cash Home Sale When Relocating

Selling your house for cash offers several advantages, especially when you’re relocating. Here are some key benefits to consider:

No Home Inspection Needed

With a cash home sale, there is no need for a formal home inspection. Cash buyers typically purchase properties as-is, meaning they accept the property in its current condition. This saves you time and relieves the stress of potential repair negotiations.

Move When You Want

A cash home sale allows for flexibility in your relocation plans. Since the process is typically faster than traditional sales, you can choose a closing date that aligns with your moving schedule. This gives you the freedom to move when it’s most convenient for you.

Leave Unwanted Items Behind – the Buyer Will Remove Them

When selling your house for cash, you have the option to leave behind any unwanted items. Cash buyers often handle clearing out the property themselves, saving you the effort and cost of disposing of unwanted belongings.

Sell As-Is, No Home Repairs

One of the significant advantages of a cash home sale is that you can sell your house in its current condition. Cash buyers are willing to purchase properties that require repairs or renovations, saving you time and money on home improvements.

No Closing Costs or Realtor Fees

In a cash home sale, the buyer typically covers the closing costs, eliminating an additional financial burden for you. Additionally, without the involvement of real estate agents, you won’t have to pay any realtor fees, further maximizing your profit from the sale.

Get Cash for My Home in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

If you need to sell your house fast but don’t want the hassle of a traditional home sale, contact Phil Buys Houses. We buy houses as-is. No repairs are needed. Avoid closing costs and realtor commissions. Close in as little as seven days. Call 856-644-7904 to get cash for your home from our local home buyers in Pennsylvania.