Facing up to seller's remorse
February 2006
Although it's not as prevalent as "buyer's remorse", some home sellers are overcome by a feeling of doubt as soon as the sale agreement is signed - and may even start wishing they could cancel the whole deal.
"But they should take courage from the fact that a measure of doubt is
quite normal. After all, selling a home where a family has shared years of joys
and sorrows is no easy task," says Berry Everitt, MD of the Chas Everitt
International property group.
.
"Add to that the stress of packing up all your belongings, perhaps selling
off items that will not fit in the new home and the thought of having to find
your way around in a strange community and environment, and you have a sure
recipe for lying awake at night. And it doesn't help that money seems to flow
like water."
Writing in the Property Signposts newsletter, Everitt says that rather than impulsively cancelling the deal, though - and possibly incurring severe legal and financial penalties - sellers suffering from remorse should take a hard look at their original reasons for selling and try to temper their outlook.
"Even if it sounds trite, it does help to view the experience as an "adventure" rather than a "disaster". There are also several steps sellers can take to lighten the stress associated with moving house, the first of which is to reserve some time for family and fun. Setting time aside for relaxation in a busy schedule is not frivolous - it is an investment in your sanity.
"Keeping a tab on finances and making sure you have an emergency fund also help to calm frayed nerves. Unusual expenses are inevitable when you move house, but it helps to remember that most of them are once-off.
"And, finally, it is a good idea to research the area you are planning to move to. Make a list of the attractions, landmarks and cultural activities that may interest you or family members. Once you can start looking forward to exploring your new "territory", the whole exercise may lose some of its dread."
Issued by Chas Everitt International
For further information call Brenda Smith at
Chas Everitt International Bryanston on 011 463 2033
or visit www.chaseveritt.com