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few years ago, I navigated my mother through the complex process of selling her long-time family home and moving into a smaller co-op apartment in a nearby retirement community. What I learned from this experience was invaluable, especially when it came to managing the emotional rollercoaster that comes with buying or selling a home.

    It's essential to view the process as a research project rather than an emotionally charged event. Gather information by reading, watching videos, and talking to friends who have gone through similar experiences. Use note-taking apps like Notion, Google spreadsheets, or Apple Notes to track your findings, as you'll likely need to refer back to them later.

    When hiring professionals, trust your instincts. I once hired a lawyer who seemed competent but turned out to be unscrupulous. He downplayed the importance of reading the fine print and assured me that we wouldn't be held to the agreement. Red flags were waving, and I promptly changed lawyers.

    Buying and selling homes can be a delicate balancing act, especially when funds from one transaction are tied to another. Things don't always go as planned, but it's crucial to remain calm and adapt to unexpected setbacks. In my case, we encountered a couple who dropped their offer on the house just as we were about to secure an apartment. We chose not to pursue the apartment, and eventually found a new home that wasn't perfect but was good enough.

    It's also essential to know when to choose your battles. When our lawyer called me with news of a dispute over a low-flow toilet in the old house, I decided it wasn't worth fighting. Giving in to the new owners' demands saved us time and stress, allowing us to move on from the ordeal.

    Lastly, be prepared for change. My parents had grown attached to their garden, which had become a symbol of their hard work and love for their home. When we sold the house, I hoped the new owners would preserve some of it, but they didn't. This experience taught me that change is inevitable, and it's essential to create a new life in your next home so you can appreciate it just as much.

    In the end, buying or selling a home is a complex process that requires patience, flexibility, and emotional resilience. By approaching it with a clear head and an open mind, you'll be better equipped to navigate its challenges and find success on the other side.