You're right--calling a few agents in the new location would give me some information about whether my observation is correct. And I need to interview at least two more agents in our area. Good ideas!

Your recommendation is similar to what my husband tells me--concentrate on getting the house ready, and we can worry later about exactly when to list it and finding a new house.

We're definitely already working on "getting ready to pack". I've made a pass through all the closets and donated a ton of stuff. We're starting to make inroads in the basement storage area. I've made a very "loose" pass at the pantries and kitchen cabinets, and will do at least one more.

We're planning on doing a pre-move in February where we'll take as much as we can manage to a storage area in the new area. We've identified what will go with in the "pre-move" (the bookcases we're keeping, my sewing desk, the antique car, family pictures, books, games, and as many boxes as we can fit) and what we're getting rid of before showing since it's not worth moving (older bookcases, my sewing cabinets, exercise equipment). (And what we're getting rid of after selling but before moving: yard furniture, futon bed, a few dressers)

Next spring/summer is probably not a "good" time for us to move, logistically, but selling and moving is always stressful, so it's not as if there's a good time.

February: week-long trip to new location and to see family
End of March/early April: we chair a major social event (our last hurrah after 15 years!)
Early May: college graduation of youngest child
Late May/early June: 2 week vacation
Early July: 1 week vacation

So there really isn't a good time. And I'm an over-planner. (This is not all bad)

Lily, either of those things would break my husband's heart. He's restoring the 1923 Model T. :-)

Real estate activity seems to pick up after the Super Bowl.

I actually sold my first home to a guy house hunting on Super Bowl Sunday. That's how you know they are serious.