If you or a family member have been in the same home for decades, the thought of moving can be overwhelming. For some homeowners, it’s so overwhelming that they stay in a home that no longer fits their needs or lifestyle. Sometimes, simply taking a small step to get started or finding answers to questions about how to plan a move or transition is all that it takes to lower stress and anxiety.
For active adults simply looking for a change, the most common dilemma is how to buy the home you want, before selling the home that you’re in. Depending on your timing, financial position and where you’re moving to, your trusted Realtor® and/or a great lender will be able to lay out multiple options for you to consider. You may be surprised by how things have changed since the last time you purchased a home. Achieving the goal of a newer home, a different location or a different size might be easier than you thought.
For seniors, additional factors can make the task of moving to their next home feel even more challenging. If possible, it’s best to plan ahead so that you can make a well thought out decision, and not need to make a rushed, unplanned move simply because there is no other option. One option may be to stay in your current home, making modifications that improve function and safety. If your home is just the right size and it’s in a location that allows you to stay connected to friends, family and any services that you may need, this may be the right choice.
If you know that your current home is much too large, or if it has features that aren’t serving you well anymore, it’s time to start researching your options. A single story home is a great way to improve accessibility and safety. Even in a single story, you’ll want to factor in rooms that have a step down, entryways that have steps, and patio or garden areas that are not flat. A floor plan that has been designed with universal features is an excellent choice. Even if you don’t need it now, wide doorways and logically placed appliances, showers and more can make a huge difference if your mobility should become compromised in the future.
Just as with all real estate decisions, location should be one of the items at the top of your list. Even if you don’t need it now, consider a location where you will have easy access to services that you need, either with a short drive, public transportation, a shuttle or on foot. Avoid remote locations or neighborhoods that might be socially isolating. Staying in your home forever might sound like a great plan, but in reality, the loss of a loved one or close neighbors and community friends might leave you feeling very alone. A community with an active senior center, classes, clubs or volunteer opportunities might feel much more fulfilling.
Are you aware that there are many services in place to help you or a loved one explore senior living options, at no cost? This can be especially helpful if you are trying to compare potential homes in independent and assisted living communities with active adult communities or other communities which involve specialized care and services.
Every move and home sale is unique. Please feel free to reach out to me at 925-964-5010 or via email at Lisa.Hopkins@Compass.com with questions or for a custom analysis. Even if you’re not planning to move, I’m happy to help by providing you with relevant data, enabling you to make a well informed decision. It’s never too early to start planning for success. In addition to having 35 years of experience as a Realtor®, I’ve also earned the designations of Certified Senior Advisor® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, elevating the services that I can provide to my mature clients.
By Lisa Hopkins-Cochran, REALTOR® at Compass
