If you’re starting to feel like your Chicago home is getting a little too small for your family, you might already be thinking about a move next year.
But between managing everyday life and figuring out how to sell one home and buy another, it can be hard to know where to start.
Here are three things I would focus on now to make that move feel more manageable.
1. Start decluttering now
I know. Trying to get things out of the house while everyone else in your family seems determined to bring more things in can feel like an uphill battle.
But decluttering takes time, especially when you have small children. Giving yourself a head start means you can work through it gradually instead of trying to tackle the entire house right before listing.
Start with one drawer, one closet, or the toys your kids have outgrown. Decide what you want to keep, donate, or let go of, and work from there.
You’ll have less to pack when the time comes, and your current home may feel a little easier to live in while you’re still there.
2. Make a plan for buying and selling
One of the biggest questions when moving to a larger home is how to coordinate the purchase with the sale of your current place.
Do you need to sell first? Could buying first be an option? What would each approach mean for your family’s timeline?
Those are conversations to start early with your agent and lender. Understanding your options before you find a home you love gives you time to work out a plan that fits your situation.
You don’t need to have everything figured out today. But knowing what needs to happen, and in what order, can make the process feel much less overwhelming.
3. Start watching the market
If you have a few Chicago neighborhoods in mind, start getting familiar with them now.
Pay attention to the homes available, what they offer, and their asking prices. Think about what you need from your next home beyond another bedroom: a different layout, more storage, outdoor space, or somewhere to work without taking over the kitchen table.
In my work with buyers, I’ve seen options that initially looked within reach become harder to find within the same budget as prices changed. Getting familiar with your options early gives you a starting point for those conversations.
This doesn’t mean you need to rush into buying. It means you can spend the coming months learning what fits your needs and asking questions along the way.
Thinking about more space next year?
Start with the decluttering, have a conversation about your buying and selling options, and get familiar with the neighborhoods you’re considering.
If your family is outgrowing your Chicago home and you’re wondering what comes next, reach out. I’d love to help you make a plan.
