Deciding whether or not to sell your house can be a trying time. Many questions pervade your mind. "Is now the best time to make a move?" "Will I make money from this sale?" Will a move disrupt my family's routine?" There are numerous factors that come into play when making this decision. Let's look at just a few to consider.

First and foremost, can you afford to make a move? In many areas of the country, home values fell dramatically during the recession. Homeowners across the nation now find themselves owing more than their home is worth. If you find yourself in this predicament, it is probably not the best time for you to move. If you are able to afford your payments and have no fear of defaulting, then it will be best to stick it out for a while longer, waiting for your home to regain some of its lost value.

Along those same lines is the topic of job stability. Do you have money saved for downpayments and closing costs, as well as an 8 month emergency fund should you get laid off?

Next, consider the impact the move will have on your family. Do you have children? Moving during the middle of a semester can be difficult for children. Will you be able to move and stay in the same school district? If not, they will be coming into a new school in the middle of activities, after bonds and friendships have been established. Timing is everything when it comes to moving with children.

Additionally, research has shown that having strong social relationships can lengthen your lifespan. Consider this strongly before you move away from family and friends. Or consider it as motivation for moving closer if you live far away!

What if you need to move for your health. Warmer climates, less humidity, and even a change of settings can be a boost to some people's health. Some seniors find cold winters too hard on their older bodies. A move for health is always a good decision, since without our health we have nothing.

The bottom line is this. Moving means changing routines, hobbies, and even friends. Be sure to evaluate your decision carefully, weighing all of your options, before jumping into a life changing decision.

Published: December 22, 2010

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Carla Hill, M.A., works on the Realty Times staff as Managing Editor for our online publication. She also is Producer for the real estate news channel, seen daily on RealtyTimes.com and on video newsletters nationwide.