Tips for Navigating the Moving Process After Losing a Loved One
Losing a loved one can throw your life out of control. Even after you’ve had time to process your grief and accept your new life, a significant loss can leave you feeling directionless, uninspired, and unmotivated. For some people, moving somewhere new provides the breath of fresh air they need to start moving forward with their lives. If you’re considering selling your house and finding a new place to call home, consider the following tips to ensure that your move goes smoothly.
For assistance with getting your home sold or buying a new home, contact an experienced Realtor at Markel Properties. 509-735-6500
Get Your Affairs in Order
Experiencing a loss often causes us to think about our own mortality. Take some time to settle any concerns you have about the future so you can enjoy your fresh start feeling prepared and in control. For example, buying burial insurance is a great way to offer some peace of mind to yourself and your loved ones. Burial insurance is a type of life insurance typically used to cover the costs of your final arrangements, but can also be used to cover existing debts. Planning for the unexpected will give you a greater sense of control over your life and ensure that the rest of your family will be cared for if something happens to you.
Prepare Your Home for Sale
Before you can put your home on the market, you have to prepare it for sale. You can follow a preparation checklist to ensure you don’t miss any essential steps in the home selling process. For example, you should make minor repairs, if needed, and completely declutter the home so that you don't scare away potential buyers. You’ll also have to determine the best time to sell and decide on a competitive asking price.
Since this is an emotional time, it’s important to work with a good realtor who will help make your home selling process as stress-free as possible. A skilled realtor at Markel Properties can help you sell your home for the price you’re looking for and get it sold quickly.
Research Your Financing Options
It can be risky purchasing a home you won't be able to realistically afford in the long term, so take the time to carefully go over your mortgage options. For instance, if you're a military veteran or active service member, you may benefit from a VA loan. With a VA loan, it typically costs less to purchase a home than a traditional mortgage. You can take advantage of more flexibility in terms of eligibility requirements and repayment plans, as well as lower interest rates and zero down payments. If you do not qualify for a VA loan, there are other mortgage options to consider, such as FHA and conventional.
Location, Location, Location
Location is another important consideration when it comes to buying a home. You can always renovate or redesign areas of your new home, but you can’t pick it up and move it somewhere else. Visit each home in person to get a feel for the area and ensure there are socialization and recreation activities nearby—staying social and active is important for coping with grief and supporting your physical and mental health. Look for nearby parks, fitness centers, coffee shops, and other community locations where you can keep yourself occupied and socialize with your neighbors. Avoiding moving somewhere isolated while you’re getting accustomed to life after your loss.
Sort Through Your Loved One’s Belongings
If you don’t feel ready to go through your loved one’s possessions just yet, pack everything up and move it with you to tackle at a later date. You can always rent a storage locker if you don’t have space. When you are ready to sort through their things, What’s Your Grief recommends planning your sorting sessions carefully so you can avoid making emotionally-charged decisions or getting overwhelmed by the process. Ask close friends or family to help you out. Emotional support will make the process a lot easier! If you find yourself struggling to part with anything, consider photographing certain items or creating meaningful mementos—like a quilt or teddy bear made from your loved one’s favorite clothes. You could even incorporate the things they loved into a little memorial garden on your new property.
Many people find it difficult to live in a home filled with memories of a lost loved one. If you’re struggling with similar feelings, buying a new home may be a great way to move forward with your life. Start looking at potential homes and locations so you can plan your fresh beginning today.
June Duncan 
june@riseupforcaregivers.org
