House Too Small...

I was in your boat...small house-three kids-thinking HOW are we going to do this!?? Start by decluttering...If you can, rent a storage unit. We put ALL that we could (including lots of toys) into it. Start researching house prices in your area, and asking around for a good realtor. I don't know much about foreclosed homes, but I know they come with a lot more red tape...and I think you'd have to sell your house first unless you have a lot of extra cash.
That's all I can think of for now...best of luck.

Hi,

Start by renting a storage facility and declutter! Make the house look bigger than it is by having less stuff in the house. that includes furniture. If you have a bed, two dressers and two night stands in your master bedroom, put one dresser and a nightstand into storage. This will open up floor space. Organize the closets to make them look roomy, not stuffed. Keep toys to a minimum. Remember putting them into storage means you get them back! In the kitchen, keep the counters clean and clear. If you have a couch and love seat in the living room, take one out and put into storage. Think floor space. If you have multi colors in rooms, paint them a neutral color (that part stinks - I know). Keep your yard, appealing. This would be for both front and back. People want to imagine their own stuff in your house and how it will look. As far as buying a foreclosure, depending on your area be prepared for competition when bidding. Also, be prepared to not have any repairs fixed. Your realtor should make sure when you do put into your bid, you put in the offer (even since the sale will most likely be AS-IS) that you can pull out after the inspection if something major is wrong (IE: cracked foundation, problems with water pipes, etc.). Sometimes, the bank does fix the problem if it is major and you are the only one who has bid. Also prepare yourself for a shock when you do go into a foreclosure. We looked at so many homes. Some foreclosures were in good shape, but some where just unimaginable. Such as, the interior walls were torn out, the carpeting was horribly stained, light fixtures were missing, smelled like they let their pet do its business in the house. Just gross stuff! Another option, which would be a little more, but this is what we did, would be to buy from an investor. They bought our house we own now as a foreclosure then they came in, cleaned it, painted it, put in new carpeting and appliances (other than fridge, washer and dryer) and put it on the market. We were able to haggle on the price and get things the inspector found wrong fixed. It was much easier. Also, have you priced out putting an addition onto your house? It might be cheaper to do that, then sell right now.

All the best to you!

We are going through something similar. First interview real estate agents. I would suggest talking to more than one. We actually met with 7. We found some good ones, but we learned that some would not negotiate on their percentage. And since most people shop online these days, look for a real estate agent that has great pictures and offer staging help. We even thought about doing for sale by owner, but decided against it due to the craziness of the market. We set up a play area for our kids in the garage. We put down a rug and stored the toys they play with most in there. Their rooms were down to their bed and dresser and a few clothes in the closet. We packed up EVERYTHING else. Be prepared for bored kids, but we have been able to make due. If the weather isn't cooperative, they are allowed to bring a few toys inside. With so much packed up, keeping things clean is A LOT easier. We have a large dog added to our mix, so that hasn't helped our situation. Our plan for showings has been to go hang out at a local park. I have a small cooler I have on hand with snacks and drinks if needed. I also put some cash in my glove box in case we get booted out near a meal time. It's going to be a hassle, but probably worth it in the end.

Get a real estate agent. Start clearing the clutter! Keep it spotless for showings, its hard, but you have to stay on it. Good luck!

Depending on how small your home is, I in this market would try to rent it instead of selling. Most houses priced within reason for rent are being snapped up these days as alot of people are downsizing or giving up on the hope of home ownership. Make sure you figure enough rent for house payment, taxes and insurance and a little extra for upkeep. Then go and buy your larger home and you will start a new venture at the same time not standing in line for a list of homeowner want to be's that can't buy your home due to a tight mortgage industry.

Go through an agent and let them know that you are only interested in looking at foreclosures.

Selling is really stressful too, so be prepared for it in this market. We bought in 2005 and are trying to sell to move closer to my job. The house was on the market for 8 months with no offers... we're trying again this spring and we'll see what happens. Make sure you can carry two mortgages if needed for an extended period of time.