Deciding whether to sell or stay in a home can be challenging, especially when it holds the memories of cherished moments like raising a family.

When you find yourself at this crossroads, it’s crucial to consider all aspects of each option. To help guide your decision, ask yourself these critical questions—your answers may better reveal the right path for you.

Have your family’s needs changed?

Whether your household is growing or shrinking, you may find that your current home no longer aligns with your needs. For instance, if you’re having a baby or older relatives are moving in with you, upgrading to a larger home might be the most viable solution. On the other hand, if you’re an empty nester whose home feels too large and lonely with the kids gone, downsizing to a smaller, cozier space may be more appealing.

Has your lifestyle changed?

Although you may have an attachment to your home, shifting priorities—such as getting a job offer in another state or wanting to live in a warmer climate, be closer to family, or have better access to certain activities and amenities—can prompt you to rethink your living arrangement. Whatever your motivations are, deciding to move to accommodate these changes may be the right choice.

Are you ready to simplify your life?

Over time, the constant demands of repairs, chores, and maintenance in a larger or older home can become overwhelming. Consequently, the notion of relocating to one that requires minimal upkeep may gradually become more desirable. Additionally, if retirement is on the horizon, simplifying your living situation may allow you to allocate more time for activities you love.

Is your home worth major renovations?

If your house is older or needs substantial enhancements to its appearance, structural stability, or essential systems, you may grapple with whether to renovate or relocate. While the former option can be transformative, it can also be costly—and you may not fully recover the money you put into it, even upon selling your home down the road. Ultimately, it comes down to costs, benefits, and personal preferences, all of which should be thoroughly weighed before making a choice about your next move.

Has your neighborhood’s value changed?

Home values have skyrocketed in recent years, with some neighborhoods experiencing double-digit gains. While the pace may have slowed down in certain areas, demand generally remains high, keeping home prices at record levels. If your neighborhood is buzzing with interest, this could be the perfect time to capitalize on the seller’s market and make a move. Conversely, you may find that nearby home values are decreasing due to factors like poorly kept properties, deteriorating infrastructure, noisy commercial development, or declining school quality. While leaving may be difficult, selling before prices dip further could be the best way to protect your investment.

Has your home become a financial burden?

Homeownership has traditionally represented the American dream. However, you might discover that your financial circumstances have changed since acquiring your home and that you are having difficulty meeting expenses such as your mortgage, utility bills, and property taxes. In this case, selling your home could be the most prudent financial decision, particularly if it has accumulated equity.

Do you want to tap into your home’s equity?

If you’ve been in the same place for several years, you’ve likely built up a decent amount of equity. This asset offers you the flexibility to make potentially life-changing decisions—even without selling your house. For instance, you could get a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) to invest in real estate, fund renovations, or start a business. If you’re over sixty-two, you could also get a reverse mortgage to help provide you with financial assistance during your retirement years. Of course, selling is still a great option for capitalizing on your equity; you can use the cash left over after paying off your mortgage to upgrade to a larger home or tackle other goals.

Assessing your present and future needs is the key to deciding whether to stay put or sell your home. Should you ultimately opt to sell, consult with a real estate agent for expert guidance on navigating the process and finding your next perfect space.