Aug. 4, 2025

This piece is sponsored by Amy Stockberger Real Estate.

If you’ve lived in your home for decades, you’ve likely built more than just equity. You’ve built a legacy.

Now, as life chapters shift — whether it’s downsizing, retiring or simply desiring less upkeep — you may be wondering: Is now the time to sell? And if so, how do you do it right?

According to a recent Realtor.com analysis, baby boomers—those born from 1946 to 1964—own $18 trillion to $19 trillion worth of real estate. That’s almost half of the housing wealth in the U.S.

Whether your kids are out of the house, you’re retiring or just want less maintenance, selling your longtime home can unlock major financial and lifestyle opportunities. But it also comes with questions:

• Where will you go next?
• How do you maximize your return?
• What steps should you take before listing?

Here’s a complete guide to help you move forward with clarity, confidence and a plan that preserves your wealth.

Step 1: Understand your equity position

You probably already know your home’s value has gone up. But do you know by how much?

Your equity is the difference between your home’s market value and what you still owe on your mortgage. Take a moment to look at recent sales in your neighborhood, or talk to an agent for a home valuation. Subtract anything you still owe on your mortgage to get an understanding of how much equity you have.

For most longtime owners, it’s a big number. That’s your opportunity.

Step 2: Talk to a financial or tax adviser

Here’s the good news: If you’ve lived in your home for at least two of the past five years, you may be able to exclude up to $500,000 in capital gains if married or $250,000 if single when you sell.

Before making any moves, consult a financial adviser or tax professional. They can help you:

• Minimize taxes.
• Strategically reinvest your proceeds.
• Set up the next chapter without stress.
  

This step alone can save you from costly missteps.

Need help finding a trusted expert? Our vetted Home Support Team directory includes financial and tax professionals who specialize in real estate transitions.

Step 3: Think through the emotional side

Letting go of a home filled with decades of memories isn’t easy. Take your time. Talk it over with family. Honor the journey.

Then, begin imagining what’s ahead: a lifestyle that brings more freedom, fewer responsibilities and a home that fits your life today.

If you are heading to senior care or helping your parents do so, our Golden Age Guided Move program is specifically designed for this phase. It offers a hands-on, concierge-level experience to help plan and execute your move, start to finish.

Step 4: Declutter and simplify

Buyers want to visualize themselves in your home. That starts with creating space.

Our Seller Operation Support program provides complimentary project management for the entire prep process. From decluttering to coordinating vendors, we take the overwhelm out of getting your home market-ready.

Step 5: Deep clean and make small updates

You don’t need a full renovation. But clean, well-maintained homes sell faster and for more money. Focus on:

• Scrub appliances and bathrooms.
• Wash windows.
• Wipe baseboards.
• Clean grout and caulking.
• Update light fixtures and cabinet hardware.
• Polish floors, or add new carpet where needed.
• Put on a fresh coat of paint in neutral tones.

These are easy wins that make a big difference.

Our Home Support Team includes trusted painters, cleaners and contractors who can tackle these projects quickly and affordably.

Step 6: Stage your home like a pro

Staging highlights your home’s best features. It’s not about personal style. It’s about helping buyers see the possibilities.

Whether you choose a full-service staging or a strategic refresh, we help your home stand out. If you prefer to skip the prep entirely, our Instant Offer Program allows you to sell without showings or delays and stay up to three days post-close.

Step 7: Maximize screen appeal

In 2025, your online listing is your first showing. That means the home must photograph well.

Before the shoot:

• Hide cords, trash cans, towels and personal items.
• Open blinds for natural light.
• Clear countertops and tables.
• Remove rugs to show off floors.

Work with your agent to ensure high-quality, professional photography. Buyers scroll fast, and first impressions matter more than ever.

Step 8: Define your next chapter

Selling is just one piece of the puzzle. Where you go next and what that lifestyle looks like are equally important.

Whether you’re relocating, buying a smaller home or renting while you explore options, get clear on your next move and timeline before you list. Our Lifetime Home Support system ensures that support doesn’t end at closing. You’ll have access to:

• Free moving trucks, trailers and supplies.
• VIP Club perks like event rentals, home tools and discount access.
• In-house storage options.
• Preferred vendor discounts and concierge services.

Let’s talk strategy. Call us at 605-376-6780, or visit amystockberger.com to get started.

If you want to connect directly with our Home Support Team partners and explore ideas for your own improvements or investments, join us at our upcoming Home & Lifestyle Expo at The District from 1 to 5 p.m. Sept. 28. We’ll have exclusive resources and a contest for a $30,000 car giveaway, plus much more.

Final thought

Selling your longtime home isn’t just about price. It’s about the plan, the people and the peace of mind that comes with having the right support.

At Amy Stockberger Real Estate, we’re not just here for the transaction. We’re here for the full transition, from the first decision to well after the last box is unpacked.

Meet our Smart Real Estate Assistant — available anytime to answer questions, connect you to services and make selling your home feel less overwhelming.

Check out my guide to selling a home this summer.

Looking to buy or sell a home? Visit Amy Stockberger Real Estate here.

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Considering a career in real estate or thinking about making a move? See how Amy Stockberger Real Estate guarantees to build big, juicy legacies for everyone in our ecosystem.

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