Should You Wait to Sell Your Home? Here’s What to Consider Before You Decide

Should You Wait to Sell Your Home? Here’s What to Consider Before You Decide

(Inspired by insights from SoFi)

If you’ve been watching the Santa Fe real estate market lately, you might be wondering if now is still a good time to sell your home. With listings sitting longer and some prices adjusting, it’s understandable that homeowners are questioning whether to list now or hold off for a “better” market.

But here’s the truth: waiting isn’t always the smartest move—especially if lifestyle changes (like a shorter commute, downsizing, or needing more space) matter more than squeezing out the last dollar. And while experts expect interest rates to come down in the near future, there’s no guarantee that lower rates will create a bidding frenzy or higher offers.

So what can you do right now if you decide to stay put for a bit longer? Here are five smart ways to make the most of your current home while preparing for your next move.

1. Make Your Home More Livable (and Valuable)

Use this time to invest in upgrades that boost both your comfort and your home’s resale value. Focus on projects with a high return on investment—like replacing a garage door, adding modern kitchen fixtures, or refreshing your landscaping.
Even small updates can make your home feel brand new. If you need help covering costs, consider exploring a home equity loan or line of credit through your lender (SoFi offers both).

2. Turn Extra Space into Extra Income

If you’ve got unused rooms, a guest casita, or even a finished basement, why not make it work for you? Rent out an extra bedroom, create a short-term rental on Airbnb, or transform that garage into a creative workspace.
A side hustle can help offset mortgage payments and make waiting more profitable—and sometimes even fun.

3. Move On… But Keep Your Home as a Rental

If life’s pulling you elsewhere, consider renting out your current property rather than selling. Becoming a landlord does require some effort (like screening tenants and staying compliant with local laws), but if the rental income covers your mortgage—and you find a cheaper place to live—you could come out ahead while your home continues to appreciate.

4. Stage and Prep Now

Getting your home “show-ready” doesn’t just prepare you for the future—it can help you fall back in love with your space right now.
Declutter, depersonalize, freshen up paint, and boost your curb appeal with simple touches like potted flowers or new lighting. You’ll enjoy a cleaner, calmer space, and you’ll be one step ahead when it’s time to list.

5. Strengthen Your Financial Position

Even if the market’s unpredictable, your finances don’t have to be. Use this pause to save aggressively, pay down debt, and build your next-home fund.
Open a high-yield savings account, set up automatic transfers (“pay yourself first”), and refine your budget. When you’re ready to buy again, you’ll be in the driver’s seat.

Bottom line:
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether you should sell now or wait. What matters most is your lifestyle, your goals, and your financial readiness.
If you’d like a personalized strategy for your situation, reach out—I’d love to help you weigh your options and plan your next steps confidently.

📞 Contact Bunny Terry | 🏡 Schedule a consultation

Inspired by SoFi’s article on selling in a shifting market.