Guest blog post from Kimberly Lorah of Bloom, LLC., Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Divorce Coach, and Certified Divorce Transition and Recovery Coach
I was recently spending time with my seven-year-old niece when she lost one of her baby teeth. It was a big moment — full of anticipation, the “under the pillow” ritual, and a magical visit from the Tooth Fairy. She looks absolutely adorable with that goofy, gappy smile. And it got me thinking: there’s something surprisingly symbolic in losing what no longer serves us… and making space for what’s next.
When kids lose their baby teeth, it’s a rite of passage we celebrate. Sure, there might be a little discomfort or fear, but there’s also excitement. That small gap in their smile isn’t just an absence — it’s a promise that something stronger and more permanent is on the way.
The tooth didn’t fall out because it was bad or broken. It fell out because it had done its job. It supported her through an important stage of life. But to grow, it had to go. That’s part of the natural cycle — and it’s something adults experience too.
Letting go of a home can feel just as emotional. Homes carry memories, milestones, and meaning. Whether you’ve raised children there, built a career, weathered storms, or simply made it your own — it likely served you well. But like that baby tooth, it may have done what it was meant to do… and now it’s time to move forward.
Still, many people hesitate. We wiggle the metaphorical tooth for weeks — sometimes months — unsure whether to hold on or let go. There’s fear: of the unknown, of loss, of making the wrong choice. But the truth is, clinging to a space that no longer fits only delays the new possibilities waiting for you.
Letting go of a home doesn’t mean the home didn’t matter. It simply means you’ve outgrown what once fit perfectly. And making space for something new — a different neighborhood, a fresh start, a right-sized home — can bring not just relief, but joy.
Lessons From Letting Go (of a Home)
1. Letting go isn’t giving up. Releasing a home doesn’t erase the memories. It honors that chapter and opens the door for what’s next.
2. Discomfort is part of change. Transitions can feel bittersweet. Let yourself feel it — it means you're human, and you're growing.
3. Honor the role your home played. That space sheltered you, supported you, and helped you build a life. Take a moment to reflect and say thank you before you move on.
4. Trust what’s ahead. Even if the next place isn’t fully clear, know that growth often starts in the unknown. Something aligned with who you are becoming is on its way.
5. You’re not alone. So many people wrestle with selling a home that holds emotional weight. Talk it through, ask for guidance, and know your journey is shared by many.
It’s funny how something as simple as a child losing a tooth can mirror something so real and complex in adult life. Letting go of a home isn’t just about moving boxes — it’s about moving forward. And while the process can be emotional, it’s also a powerful step toward a life that better reflects who you are now — and who you’re becoming.
And while the emotional part of the journey is yours to navigate, the logistics don’t have to be. That’s where a qualified residential real estate agent becomes invaluable.
A great agent isn’t just there to list your home — they understand the weight of your decision, the memories you're parting with, and the hopes you hold for your future. They offer more than market expertise; they provide guidance, clarity, and reassurance throughout the process. They can help you price your home fairly, market it with care, and transition into your next chapter with confidence.
If you're standing at the edge of a transition — unsure whether to hold on or let go — don’t do it alone. The right real estate professional can make the entire experience smoother, less stressful, and more aligned with your goals.
