What is the quickest, hassle-free way to sell a property with tenants still living there?
In the state of California, homeowners must adhere to the rental agreement terms while listing a home for sale. Selling a property while others are still living there requires some forethought, but can be done seamlessly if the following steps are addressed.
Step 1: Start Planning Immediately
Once you’ve accepted a cash offer on your home, time is of the essence. You may quickly feel overwhelmed with the task of preparing yourself and home for a move. Get in front of this by creating a master checklist and jot down every possible thing that will be required for packing up and moving.
This can be done in any of the ways below:
- Download an app for moving
- Create a spreadsheet
- Make a to-do list on your phone or on paper
Your checklist should include items such as:
- Download an app for moving
- Create a spreadsheet
- Make a to-do list on your phone or on paper
Step 2: Clear Out Your Home
Moving quickly is much easier when you have less to pack. Clearing out each room of items no longer needed in your life will not only save you packing time, it might even save money with less items to move to another home or keep in storage.
You’ll have to decide what to keep and what to get rid of. Consider how often you have used each possession in the last year. Is the heavy coat in the back of the closet an item worn every winter or is it one you haven’t touched in years? If you have lived in your home for years without needing the item, it’s likely time to part ways.
How to declutter your home:
- Start one room at a time
- Create different categories into piles: keep, trash, and donations/sell
- Keep record of large item donations for tax write offs
Step 3: Gather Packing Supplies
The sooner you gather all the required supplies for your move, the sooner you’ll rid yourself of any persisting nerves or anxiety. Plan to have these items in your possession well before your move-out week to allow yourself peace of mind. Purchase boxes, tape, bubble wrap, markers and any other materials for packing and storing your belongings. If you are truly pressed for time, some moving companies offer packages with these various items.
Step 4: Pack Efficiently
Start packing non-essential items as soon as possible. The first things to go into boxes should be the things you don’t use everyday and can go a couple weeks without.
Before you pack up your closet, designate a few outfits, socks, etc for the last few days of being in the home. Keep them in a suitcase so you have easy access to them. This will keep them easily accessible, but out of the closet and dressers.
If you’re moving a short distance, clothes you pack for the moving truck can be placed directly into large trash bags with hangers still on.
Save yourself a headache by refraining from packing boxes to the brim. Just because it fits, does not mean you or another will be able to handle the weight of a box that is filled with heavy boxes or dishes. Remember to keep boxes light.
Label each box clearly by room and content, and consider a color-coding system to keep everything organized.
Step 5: Handle Utilities and Address Changes
Arrange to disconnect your current utilities and set them up at your new home, aligning the dates closely with your moving schedule. Notify banks, governmental agencies, and subscription services of your change of address. This step is crucial to avoid service interruptions and ensure that you don’t miss important communications.
Step 6: Plan the Logistics of Moving Day
Decide whether you’ll hire professional movers or manage the move yourself. For a quick move, professional movers can be a worthwhile investment, as they can significantly speed up the process. If you opt to DIY, rent a moving truck of adequate size and recruit friends or family to help. Determine the logistics of the day, including the route to your new home and where the moving truck will park.
Step 7: Final Clean, Walkthrough and Handover
Before you lock up for the last time, do a final walkthrough of the home. If your home sells as-is, it might not be required to do a deep clean of the property. However, if you’d like to offer a smooth transfer to the new owner, your final walkthrough of the home can include a sweep, mop, and wiped down counters.
If your home sells as-is there’s no requirement for you to clean the property, unless you’ve discussed this with the buyer. Just make sure you’ve removed all your belongings.
Be sure to check closets, drawers, and shelves for any forgotten items. Check that all windows are secure, switches are off, and that you haven’t left anything behind.
To Wrap Up
Moving out quickly after accepting a cash offer can be a stress-free process with proper planning. The key to a successful quick move is preparation and focus. By organizing and scheduling efficiently, you can ensure that your move is as smooth as possible. If you’re ready for a fast cash offer and a quick closing contact Quickturn Property Solutions today.