Start with a plan, not a moving box.

Name what you want more of

Less yardwork? Fewer stairs? More time near the people and places you enjoy? Write down your three main reasons for moving. Use those reasons to evaluate every home you consider.

• List three things your next home must make easier.
• Separate true requirements from nice-to-haves.
• Choose a comfortable decision window, even if a moving date is still uncertain.

Understand the move before choosing the house

Review the likely sale price and costs of leaving your current home. Then compare the full cost of the next one, including taxes, insurance, association fees, utilities, and maintenance. Ask Linda for a current market analysis and a personalized sale-proceeds estimate.

• Collect mortgage and property documents.
• Talk with your lender if financing may be part of the move.
• Compare selling first and buying first before committing to either.

Sort in small, repeatable sessions

Start with a low-emotion space: a linen closet, kitchen drawer, or utility shelf. Save photographs and heirlooms for a time when you have more energy. One finished drawer is progress.

• Create keep, offer, donate, sell, and recycle groups.
• Measure furniture you truly want to take.
• Confirm donation and pickup arrangements before relying on them.

Build a practical moving calendar

Once the housing plan is clearer, work backward from the move. Include home preparation, showings, packing, utilities, storage if needed, and a backup plan if dates shift. A flexible plan is much more useful than a perfect-looking calendar.