For many clients, selling before buying creates a blank canvas and a chance to explore. Some even plan a “trial year,” dividing time into three or four-month stays: spring near Takoma’s leafy porches, summer along New England’s coastlines, and winter under the desert sun. Renting instead of rushing into a purchase prevents hasty decisions and allows you to experience how daily life truly feels—say, on a quiet Tuesday afternoon.

To make the most of this approach, create a simple checklist. Consider walkability (are errands 10–15 minutes away?), access to quality healthcare, and the presence of “third places” like libraries, parks, or cafés where community naturally forms. In DC, those connections might spark over coffee at Eastern Market’s Peregrine Espresso, in the buzz of Bloomingdale’s Big Bear Café patio, or at Takoma’s cozy, plant-filled Lost Sock Roasters—each neighborhood offering its own unique rhythm.

Think of this year not as a pause but as research. Track things like cost of living, transportation options, noise levels, and how easy it is to meet new people. By the end, you’ll have tested your priorities in real life—ensuring your next lease or purchase reflects the lifestyle you truly want.

Contact Sell My Parents house today to discuss your real estate needs!