Selling a House During a Relocation
A new job or family move can leave you with two homes to think about and not much time.
Questions to answer first
- When do you need to be in the new location?
- Does your employer offer relocation help, and does it cover selling costs?
- Can you afford to carry both homes if the sale takes longer?
Your main options
- List with an agent if the house is ready and you have time.
- Rent it out if the numbers work and you can manage it from afar.
- Sell directly if condition or timing makes a listing impractical.
If you have already moved
We can often handle much of the process by phone, email and electronic signature, along with a title company. See selling from out of state.
This page is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state and city, so please check with a qualified professional about your situation.
Your Options When Relocating
- Sell before you move. The simplest path if you have time. You can stay until closing.
- Move first, then sell. Common when a job starts quickly, but you may carry two housing payments while the old house sits.
- Rent it out. Can make sense in a strong rental area, but managing repairs and tenants from far away is hard for many owners.
- Sell directly for cash. Pick a closing date that matches your move and skip repairs and showings.
Costs of an Empty House After You Move
Once you leave, the house keeps costing money: mortgage, taxes, insurance (vacant homes often need a different policy), utilities and lawn care. Empty houses also face higher risk of leaks, freeze damage and break-ins. Add these up month by month to compare against a faster sale.
Checklist Before You Leave
- Tell your insurer if the house will be vacant
- Keep heat or air on enough to protect the house
- Forward mail and keep utilities in your name until closing
- Leave a key with someone you trust, or a lockbox
Moving soon? Get a cash offer with a closing date that fits your move.