Real estate agent Derek von Sturmer has helped hundreds of clients through the process over the past two decades. But it wasn’t until he had a family of his own that the emotional weight really clicked. “One moment they were the best clients ever… and then the next minute being completely irrational and upset… I get it now.”

There’s often more going on than just preparing a property. You might be juggling open homes with school pickups, thinking about mortgages and moving trucks, or worrying about what comes next. It’s a lot to hold at once, especially when life isn’t exactly on pause.

What stress looks like

Stress shows up differently for everyone. For some, it’s decision fatigue. For others, it’s snapping at your partner over staging cushions. “You’re dealing with stress at work, stress at home… and having to sell your home on top of that is just full overwhelmed territory,” Derek says.

There’s no right or wrong way to feel. Selling a home means stepping into the unknown. Even if it’s a positive move, uncertainty can still be exhausting.

You don’t have to carry it all

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is trying to do everything themselves. But a good real estate agent isn’t just there to sell your home. They’re there to help carry the mental and emotional load, too.

That might mean managing timelines, connecting you with trades, offering a sounding board when the pressure builds, or just making sure you’re not facing every decision alone.

In Derek’s case, he offers a concierge-style service to address that exact need. “We can take away all of that [stress] from our clients so they can just go with their day-to-day business.” But even if you’re working with a more traditional setup, don’t be afraid to ask for help or to lean on others when it all feels like too much.

One step at a time

If you’re feeling stuck or unsure where to begin, start small. Reach out. Have the first conversation. Ask the questions. The sooner you start, the sooner the weight lifts. “You should be able to delegate something to someone and know that that job is done,” Derek says.

Selling your home might be a big chapter, but you don’t have to turn the page alone.

Disclaimer: This article is based on a podcast featuring insights from experienced professionals and is intended for general information and inspiration only. While we aim to share valuable guidance, please seek personalised advice from qualified professionals before making decisions about your property, finances, or renovation plans.