Selling to Step Up or Simplify: What to Know Before Making Your Move

by Sandi Crews

Selling to Step Up or Simplify: What to Know Before Making Your Move

If you’ve been thinking about selling — maybe to get more space, or maybe because the house just feels too big now — you’re not alone.

At Utah Home Vibes, we work with homeowners every day who are ready for a change… but not always sure where to start.

Some are upsizing into a dream home. Others are downsizing into something that fits this next chapter better. The common thread? They want to make a smart move — not a stressful one.

Here’s what we’ve learned helping families and individuals across Northern Utah, including Davis County, Salt Lake City, and even Box Elder, make that transition with confidence.

Step One: Get Clear on Why You’re Moving

It sounds simple, but your reason for selling shapes your entire plan.

Thinking about moving up? Maybe you need more bedrooms, a bigger kitchen, or a home that finally matches your lifestyle.
Looking to downsize? Maybe the upkeep is too much now… or you just don’t need all that space anymore.

When we know your why, we can map out a plan that makes everything — from pricing to timing — make more sense.

“It’s not just about selling your house. It’s about stepping into a new season, with the right support and the right strategy.” – Sandi, @utahhomevibes

Use Your Equity the Right Way

Utah homeowners have seen strong equity growth the past few years — and if you're thinking of selling, that equity can unlock big options:

If You’re Upsizing:

We’ll help you decide how much equity to put toward your next home — and how to avoid stretching too far into the “qualified” zone instead of your comfortable zone.

If You’re Downsizing:

Some clients end up with little-to-no mortgage at all. That could mean more flexibility, less stress, and more freedom in your budget.

According to Rocket Mortgage, home equity is the portion of your home you truly own — and it can be one of your most powerful financial tools when used wisely.

But the key? Using your equity strategically, not emotionally. That’s where guidance really matters.

Planning Your Exit (and Your Entry)

One of the biggest worries we hear from sellers is:

“What if I sell and then can’t find a home I love in time?”

This is where experience makes a huge difference.

We help sellers:

Buy before they sell (with bridge loans or creative offers)
Use rent-backs or longer closings to create breathing room
Time their listing based on real buyer activity — not guessing games

If you’re moving up or scaling down, there is a smart way to time this — and we’ve helped others do it.

We’ve worked with sellers across Weber County, Salt Lake City, Ogden, and even more rural areas like Box Elder County — and no two situations are ever the same.

If You’re Downsizing: Let’s Talk Clutter, Clarity & Comfort

Downsizing can feel freeing… until you realize how much you’ve accumulated.

We’ve helped clients tackle this — not just emotionally, but strategically.

We’ll walk you through what really needs to be staged
We’ll help you avoid spending money where it doesn’t help
And if needed, we’ve got organizers and resources to ease the load

Sometimes less really is more. We’ll help you embrace that in a way that feels good.

If You’re Moving Up: Let’s Talk Financing, Negotiation & Timing

Upsizing can be exciting — and intimidating.

We’ve helped buyers move from a $400K starter home into $800K+ dream homes… and still stay within budget.

From creative financing to strong negotiation, we’ll help you:

Make competitive offers without overpaying
Structure the deal to give you flexibility with your current home
Avoid the trap of being “house-rich, cash-poor”

This isn’t just about finding a bigger house. It’s about making sure it works for you now — and in the future.

We’ve Been There — and We’ve Helped Others Do It Too

Sandi and Brian went through this firsthand — navigating credit recovery, buying a new home, and making it work with real life (and real stress).

Now? We’ve helped others do the same.

Some had quick transitions. Others took 18+ months. But each time, it was about more than just selling a house. It was about helping them get to a better place.

"You don’t need to rush. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need someone who actually cares — and knows how to guide you through it.” – Sandi