Answers by Robby Bartholomai

Kirk, in a scenario where you are both selling and buying, your first step is to determine the value of your existing home, since the proceeds will likely factor into your budget for your next home. Find a couple of agents locally with good reviews and ask them for a market analysis. That should include four things: a detailed list of comparable properties, a list of suggested improvements, a suggested price for your home, a net sheet that details how much money you would likely walk away with after all fees, including your mortgage, are paid.

We had the same move as you. As it relates to leaving Florida, you don't have to do anything. Be prepared to bring all records for your vehicles. I recall getting Illinois car titles was frustratingly labor intensive. They want to ensure you did not purchase the vehicle out of state to avoid paying IL taxes. While you are doing that, you should also get an IL driver's license. For some reason, I had to take the written test again.

You are obligated to give an honest accounting of your knowledge of the state of the property. Since you know it leaks, you have to disclose it. You could repair or replace the roof on the garage or offer a credit.

Many owners don't want the hassle of showings during the holidays. If that is your main concern, you can either remove the listing entirely or put it in the private network. That's still part of the MLS but does not feed to consumer facing sites like Zillow.