[nanci2539]

Yes we did! We signed the contract last night. It's a solid buyer and there are no contingencies. The planning date for passing papers is May 28th. Our home was on the market for three months

What I feel worked for us is (1) price; (maintenance); and (3) cleanliness/staging

We dropped our price by $50K. It was a one time reduction. Instead of little increments, we made the decision to do a one shot drop. We accepted $19,000 less than the asking price. In this market, we consider ourselves fortunate. If you are selling and get an offer, work the offer. Meaning, counter offer but give something back. In my case, I countered after her first offer. She came back $10K lower; then we countered again offering to have the back yard summer ready and also leaving my eight oversized ceramic planters.

She said no to that so we went with her first counter.

Now I am so stressed and so scared, I can't begin to tell you my emotions.

Our plan is to go to TV and rent until we find the right home for us.

The furniture will need to go into storage. Does it make sense to store it in FLA or store it up north until we'e ready?

How do I go about finding a rental that is pet friendly. I have cats and they go where I go.

Now we have to get through the inspection but that should be okay (I hope) And, I need to tell my family. My son and his family'; my daughter and her family. And Both live within a mile of me. I have three grandchildren, 7, 6 and almost 2. Every time I think about moving, I have to hold back the tears.

I'm sure I will be asking a million questions next month.

[Rokinronda]

Congratulations!!! Your family knew this day was coming and I'm sure will enjoy visiting you here. Get some web cams for everyone, so you can see each other while chatting. Tell the kids how close you will be to DISNEY!! A big deal to little ones! Pools, golf cart rides, buffalo, music and dancing, etc.. NO MORE SNOW!! You will be very happy here! Don't worry, be happy! ;D

Hi Nanci, A Major Congratulations to you and hubby. I can only imagine the thrill and relief of shedding your once beloved home. Now it is full forge ahead, The Villages. Godspeed on getting everything done to your satisfaction. Maybe you started the ball rolling for the rest of us :bigthumbsup: :bigthumbsup: :bigthumbsup:

[RCT]

Congratulations Nanci!!

[nONIE]

Wonderful news Nanci! Dont you worry, it will all work out with the grandkids! Ronda is right, so many fun things for them to do here. :bigthumbsup: mabe too many!!

[Barefoot]

You'll love the Villages, don't be nervous. It's the best decision I've ever made. I'm glad to welcome another Pet Lover aboard!

[chelsea24]

I know that feeling and it's the best! Congratulations nanci, look forward to meeting you. I love so many snowbirds that will be flying away soon, it's nice to know who's coming here to stay. :bigthumbsup:

[Peggy D]

Nanci

Congrats!! That is just wonderful news.

I wish you the best. Can relate to the cats--we have 3 babies too.

[beady]

Great news Nanci,
We had some discussions some time ago about leaving the grandkids. Well, I did it holding back the tears but at the same time so excited to be headed for TV.
I sympathize with your emotions over the next few months but believe me you will get through it.
Rokinronda is absolutely right about getting set up with web-cams. We see and speak with the kids in NH and NC every Sunday. Last Sunday our 7 year old grand son read us a book ,while his 2 year old brother bounced on the couch in the backround. Hilarious. Ben (the 7 year old) will be here in mid-April for 7 days. He's telling everyone he gets to have a vacation from his baby brother. Granddaughters arrive tomorrow for Easter and a 7 day visit. So , excited.
Take a deep breath, start packing and be assured you will love being here. wav wav

[bobfl]

If you decide to store furniture in FLA be sure it is in air conditioned storage. The Summer heat and humidity can create a mold problem.

[gfmucci]

Congratulations. Now you are entering into the fun, creative, real anticipation of moving stage. The journey is the destination.

[mmclover]

Great news, I hope to be right behind you. I have concerns for traveling with my pets, to get them down there safely, and I understand your excitement and fears. I am leaving a home I have been in for 43 years, a little scarey, but the anticipation of TV makes it exciting.

[scottke]

Congratulations. I do hope your good luck starts it for the rest of us just like Johnny said. It will be the right move for you. We're leaving 9 grandchildren behind who also live very close and spend a great deal of time with us. This will be the right move for us too when the day comes. Hope to meet you in TV.

[pm10]

Congrats, Nanci!!!!! We'll hopefully be doing the same, early next year. We have 2 grandkids - now living 2 blocks from us. It's hard to think of leaving them - but as so many have said, we'll keep in close touch. And we have 2 cats to move with us, too. But I look at it as such a great adventure - to such a wonderful place!! Keep us posted on your progress. I remember reading all about Barefoot's journey (that was when I first found this site) - and enjoyed every word she wrote. All of us wannabees will enjoy your journey, too.
Marcia

[diskman]

Regarding your furniture, it is from my personal experience with a long distance move. The cost of storage and moving your furniture. Vs getting new stuff for your retirment home. BUY NEW! if you must keep a few items of sentimental nature do it. Sell the rest.
We spent $7,000 to move our "treasured belongings" after we realized what a mistake!
Larry & Bev 8)