I had an interesting listing presentation last night. Everything went smoothly. I was well prepared with a ton of useful information for my prospective sellers, an empty nest couple in too much house. We all got along very well, the home was impeccable, we agreed on the fair market value for their lovely home, and then I asked the fatal question: where are you planning to move next?

They both looked at each other, and what ensued was the kindhearted quibble / debate / semi-argument that only married couples can have. I sat quietly for a few minutes while they discussed what they wanted to do and it was clear they couldn’t agree because they simply did not know themselves.

He wanted a backyard to grill and have alone time (but no yard maintenance, please), she wanted a big kitchen to entertain, and while they didn’t want five bedrooms anymore, they didn’t want too small either, and the list went on. They wanted to stay local, but further away was also OK. You get the idea, they were all over the place because they were just not ready.

We spent the next hour discussing possible alternatives and the couple was genuinely grateful that I could give them several options they hadn’t considered. We looked at rentals, sales, houses, garden apartments, condos, units. I pulled out my handy dandy spreadsheet and we did some calculations comparing rent vs. Buy based on how long they might stay in their next home. I gave this lovely couple a new perspective on their prospects and said my good nights.

This morning I sent them a quick note thanking them for their time. The next sentence is copied from my email: I would absolutely encourage you to have a set plan for where you are going next before moving away from your existing home. 

I was happy to give them that advice and I would be even happier to help them develop their plan. The old adage is true, it’s better to move toward something than to move away from something, specially if you don’t know where the next step ought to be.