People give up homes for various reasons. Sometimes the circumstances are in their control (such as making the choice to sell a house and move to a new one) and sometimes they aren’t (like in the case of a foreclosure, house fire, natural disaster, or death of the primary resident). Leaving a home can be very sad and emotional regardless of the reason.
In the current real estate market, many selling their home do not have it on the market for long. Homes are selling quickly, sometimes so quick that it takes owner’s by surprise. Before you know it, you are handing the keys over. For many, it is a sad time, although the exciting times, usually a new home, are around the corner.
People find themselves emotional over the memories made while they were at their home. Perhaps it was your first home, the home your brought newborn children home to, or it was the loss of a loved one.
It is perfectly normal to grieve over a home. In fact, you should allow yourself to do it in a healthy way. Here are a few tips to help you you say goodbye.
Take photographs of different rooms and significant places. This might include the dining room, kids’ bedrooms, etc. The idea is to have a picture to remember and reminisce when you are ready.
Before you move, as a family, share your favorite memories you’ve had in the home. Then in Marie Kondo fashion, thank your home for its years of service and release the home to the new owners wishing for them all the good times and great memories you’ve had.
Hire a photographer and have one last family photo shoot. For example, check out this touching father/daughter photo shoot.
Spend purposeful and meaningful time in the home. Take time in each room and let the memories come. Also, feel free to place your hands on the walls, doors, windows or special areas for as long as feels right.
Carve your initials in a tree, write a message in a door jam, make handprints in cement, or bury a time capsule in the backyard.
These are a few ideas that can help you say goodbye and move to make more memories in your new home.