If you’ve been thinking about a move this year, but haven’t taken any formal steps yet, this is for you.

The purpose of this checklist isn’t to rush you.
It’s to replace uncertainty with clarity, so if and when the timing feels right, you’re not starting from scratch.

Think of this as a calm, practical way to get your arms around what a move could look like.

Step One. Get a Clear Snapshot of Where You Are

Before you think about what’s next, it helps to understand what you’re working with now.

That includes:

A realistic estimate of your home’s current value
A general sense of how much equity you’ve built
Any major updates or maintenance items that could affect timing

You don’t need a full plan yet.
You just need a clear starting point.

Here in Annapolis and throughout Anne Arundel County, market conditions can vary widely by neighborhood. Understanding your specific position is far more helpful than following national headlines.

Step Two. Clarify What’s Driving the Move

Most moves aren’t really about real estate.
They’re about life.

Ask yourself:
Are we looking for more space, less maintenance, or a different layout?
Has our daily rhythm changed?
Are schools, commutes, or family needs influencing this decision?
What feels harder about staying than it did a few years ago?

Clarity here helps every other decision feel more aligned.

Step Three. Separate “Need to Have” From “Nice to Have”

This is one of the most grounding exercises you can do early.

Create two short lists:

Non-negotiables your next home must support
Nice-to-haves that would be lovely but aren’t essential

This makes it easier to recognize the right opportunity when it appears, especially in a competitive or low-inventory market.

Step Four. Understand Your Natural Timing Windows

You don’t need a firm timeline, but it helps to know your natural rhythms.

Consider:
School years and activity schedules
Work or commute flexibility
Family milestones or transitions
Seasonal preferences like spring, summer, or fall

This allows you to plan proactively instead of reacting when something unexpected pops up.

Step Five. Decide How You Want the Process to Feel

This step matters more than most people realize.

Ask yourself:
Do I want this to feel calm or fast?
Do I want guidance or independence?
Do I want to move in stages or all at once?

Knowing how you want the process to feel helps shape the right strategy and the right support.

Step Six. Think About What Help Might Be Useful

two men moving boxes into a van — **You don’t have to do everything yourself.**

Support might look like:
Advice on preparation and timing
Help thinking through downsizing or move-up options
Conversations about coordinating and strategizing a buy and a sell simultaneously
Guidance on what matters most in today’s local market

Planning early gives you access to support without pressure.

Step Seven. Be Ready for the Right Opportunity

One of the biggest benefits of planning is being ready when the right home appears.

You don’t need to be actively searching to be prepared.
You just need:

Clarity on your priorities
A basic understanding of your numbers
Confidence in your next steps

That readiness prevents rushed decisions and missed opportunities.

A Thoughtful Way to Move Forward

You don’t need to check every box today.
This isn’t about finishing.
It’s about beginning thoughtfully.

If a move is on your mind this year and you’d like help walking through these steps in a way that feels calm and manageable, February is often a great time to gain clarity, even if action comes later.