Keep Your Sanity: Selling Your Home While Living There

By Alexander Prewitt

Alexander is a Tucson native. He is a University of Arizona Alumnus and a devoted Wildcat fan. His experience in Real Estate over the last 11 years covers all aspects of residential Real Estate including listing agent, buyer's agent, and also working with distressed properties such as short sales and foreclosures.

Selling your home while you’re still living in it presents unique challenges. Your home is your sanctuary, and having it on the market can feel overwhelming with the constant foot traffic and strangers evaluating every corner. However, with a few strategic steps, you can maintain your privacy and sanity throughout the process. Let’s dive into some practical tips to help you navigate this journey:

1. Start packing early. The first step to preparing your home for sale is to declutter. Pack away unnecessary items and personal belongings, storing them in closets or your garage. This not only makes your space look cleaner and larger but also helps you get a head start on your move.

2. Keep it clean. Aim for your home to emulate the cleanliness of a high-end hotel. From the moment potential buyers step in, they’re judging every detail. Ensuring your home is spotless can significantly impact their first impression.

“Living in your home while it’s on the market doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal.”

3. Secure your valuables. Privacy and security are paramount. High-value items like jewelry, watches, and firearms should be stored securely, either in a safe or another secure location. This protects your valuables from potential theft during open houses or viewings.

4. Involve your kids. Selling your home can be a family affair. Instead of excluding your children from the process, involve them and make it fun. Encourage them to keep their rooms tidy by turning it into a game, similar to the “75 hard” challenge. Reward them for their efforts, which not only keeps your home show-ready but also keeps them engaged and responsible.

Living in your home while it’s on the market doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. By decluttering, maintaining cleanliness, securing your valuables, and involving your entire family in the process, you can ensure a successful and less intrusive home sale. If you’re interested in receiving a detailed list of tips for selling your home while living in it, feel free to call or email me. I’m here to support you through every step of your home-selling journey.