A lot of things can cause a person to want to move. Sometimes, it’s for a positive reason, like being promoted to a new job that’s out of town. Other times, people move for negative reasons, like facing foreclosure on their home.
Regardless of where you fall, you may not be sure which path to take.
If you’re wondering whether on not it’s time for you to move, we can provide a little insight. Keep reading for the top nine reasons people move to help you decide if finding a new home is the right choice for you and your family.
You Can Afford a Better Home
One of the most exciting reasons to sell your home is if you’re moving up in the world and can afford something nicer. Over time, most people progress in their careers and begin to earn more money. This provides new opportunities.
While you should ensure that you’re making sound financial decisions, such as living below your means, there’s nothing wrong with upgrading your home. A more expensive home has several potential benefits, such as:
- A better neighborhood
- A bigger house
- A better school district
- Higher quality housing materials
- Luxurious features
- And more
If you find yourself in this situation, remember to consult your budget. But just as importantly, take this time to enjoy the luxuries you’ve earned with your hard work.
You Need to Move Into a Bigger Home to Accommodate a Growing Family
One of the most common reasons people move is because their family is outgrowing their current home. Whether you have aging kids who require more space or are planning on having children/more children, your house needs to accommodate them.
A home that’s too small can lead to unnecessary family drama. People will fight over the bathroom while getting ready in the morning and your kids will argue more if they’re forced to share a room. A bigger house will give you and your family the necessary space and privacy to get along peacefully.
You Need to Relocate for Work
More common reasons to move include work-related issues. These can vary greatly, depending on your professional circumstances.
For example, you may choose to move to cut down on your commute time. Driving half an hour to and from work every day will become tedious after a while. A commute that long means you’re dedicating an entire hour each day to driving.
Alternatively, if you’re offered a new job or a promotion that requires you to relocate, moving will be necessary.
You Need Move Into a Smaller Home to Downsize Your Living Expenses
Not all reasons people move are positive. In some cases, people move because they need to find a more affordable living situation. This isn’t uncommon, as roughly 78% of American workers live paycheck to paycheck.
If your monthly mortgage payment is placing financial strain on you and your family, it may be in your best interest to downsize your house. However, a less expensive house doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing happiness or comfort.
You could move to a less expensive neighborhood and save tens of thousands of dollars on a similar house. You could also leave a house that falls under a homeowners associate that’s costing hundreds of extra dollars each month.
You Don’t Like Your Neighborhood or School District
Why sell your home if you can afford it and it’s big enough for your family?
What if it’s not in the right neighborhood? Maybe the neighborhood is in decline and it’s becoming unsafe for your kids.
Alternatively, you may be surrounded by neighbors you don’t get along with. They could be too nosey, loud, or disrespectful.
Finally, some people move because they want to ensure their kids get the best education possible. Moving to a new location may grant them access to better school districts.
There Are Personal Reasons
Another question people ask is, “Why do people move if there’s nothing wrong with their house, their finances, or their location?”
In some cases, people are forced to sell their homes based on personal circumstances. For example, they may need to liquidate their assets because they’re going through a divorce, or there has been a death in the family. Alternatively, they may need to move if their house is facing foreclosure from the bank.
If you’re selling your home for these reasons, it may be a difficult process. However, selling your house to a cash home buyer can expedite the process and mitigate your anxiety.
Fortunately, not all personal reasons people mare are inherently negative.
You may choose to move because you’re kids have finally graduated, and you’re ready to move into a smaller home. This is also a good time to replace size with quality. You can find a smaller house that’s more luxurious and modern for the same price as a big, but average home.
You’re Retiring
If you’ve worked your whole life and have adequate savings, it may be time to retire. You may be considering moving so you can join a retirement community or move to a more comfortable location.
For example, if in your travels you found a particularly desirable location, now may be a good time to relocate there permanently. This is one of the most rewarding reasons people move.
You Want to Cash in On Some Positive Equity
As noted above, most workers in our country live paycheck to paycheck. As such, it’s only natural to want to take advantage of financial opportunities that come our way. For many homeowners, this opportunity presents itself in the form of positive equity built into their home over years of making payments.
As you pay down your mortgage, your home will most likely maintain it’s value. In many cases, it will actually increase in value, especially if you make updates and renovations, and take good care of it. After several years, your home will be worth thousands, if not tens of thousands more than what you owe.
If you’re looking for a big payout, you can sell your home for what it’s worth and pocket the positive equity.
Your Current Home Has a Lot of Issues
Finally, one of the most frequent reasons people move is because they’re tired of all the upkeep their home demands. This is common in older homes, big homes, or homes that have been neglected in the past.
Paying out for repairs and maintenance becomes tedious after several years, particularly if there seems to be no end to your issues.
Some people move because of a final straw that broke the camel’s back. This could be something like a roof needing to be replaced, discovering a pest problem, or any other major issue.
Do Any of These Reasons People Move Apply to You?
Is moving the right choice for you and your family? If you can relate to any of the reasons people move listed above, the answer might be yes. Alternatively, you may your own unique reasons to get away from your current house and find a new place to live.
Regardless, we wish you good luck in your quest. And if you need more help with real estate or home advice, take a look through some of our other articles before you go. Our blog is full of valuable information designed to help homeowners buy and sell houses, maintain their homes, make exciting renovations, and more.