Detaching emotionally from your Okehampton or Tavistock home when it’s time to sell

Selling your home can be an emotional experience, especially if you have lived there for many years, as there will be many memories associated with those bricks and mortar. If it is really time to move on however, the best thing to do is to try and emotionally detach from the property. It may help to frame your house sale as a business deal which needs to be considered objectively rather than consigning your home and all those memories to the past. Although those emotions and feelings are more than valid, they may hinder your sale if you allow the heart to govern instead of the head. This is why it is essential to detach emotionally from your home when it’s time to sell.

Depersonalise

When you’re trying to emotionally detach from your home, one of the most effective things you can do is depersonalise the space. This means removing ornaments or souvenirs that trigger fond memories as well as those treasured family photos. Not only do these items uphold the emotional tie that the house has on you, they also reflect your personal style or taste and make it difficult for potential buyers to be able to envision themselves living there. The goal is to make the home as neutral and broadly appealing as possible which means removing distracting items with sentimental value – a win-win for both you and the buyers!

Remind yourself why you’re moving

You’ve made the decision to move for a reason, which might be an exciting opportunity such as a new job, a growing family necessitating another bedroom, retirement meaning it’s time to downsize or perhaps a sad situation such as a bereavement triggering a need to leave your current home. Whatever the reason, your current home is no longer suitable, and that’s what has to stay at the forefront of your mind. This doesn't mean you should start actively disliking your house, but perhaps taking a more objective view of the aspects that no longer suit your needs or any flaws and imperfections can help you see your home in a more realistic light, rather than through the rose-tinted glasses of nostalgia and sentimentality which will enable that emotional distancing.

Behave as if it’s already sold

One of the best ways to emotionally detach from your home when you need to sell it is to behave as if it’s already sold. This can be difficult, but taking practical steps can help make it easier. By downsizing your possessions, making repairs, and refreshing the décor as recommended by your estate agent, you’re sending a clear message to your subconscious that you’re ready to move on.

Starting to search for your new home, and telling your friends and neighbours that you’re moving can make the transition easier. It’s important to focus on the future and what’s to come, rather than dwelling on the past.

It is a business transaction

At the end of the day, selling your property is a financial transaction. It can be hard to detach from the emotional ties you have with your home but remembering that it is ultimately a business deal can help you make practical decisions and avoid getting caught up in sentimentality.

When it comes to pricing, focus on the current local market conditions rather than what you personally believe the house is worth. Remember that the goal is to move house and start afresh, not to hold onto the house at all costs.

Keep in mind that you are not alone in this process. Your estate agent, solicitor, and other professionals are there to guide you and help you make sound financial decisions. Don't be afraid to ask for their advice and expertise. Keeping a practical mind-set throughout the process will help make the transition smoother and less emotionally draining.

The heart of your move

Once you have made the decision to sell, one way or another your relationship with this home has come to an end. Therefore, focus on making your new home the heart of your move, remember the process is just a financial transaction and when completed you can look back with fond memories.

If you would like more advice on selling your property and moving home in Tavistock or Okehampton then please call our friendly and empathetic team today on 01822 617243 or 01837 54080.