As you approach retirement, it’s a perfect opportunity to consider downsizing. This decision can bring about a range of benefits, from financial savings to a more manageable lifestyle. To help you make an informed choice, here are some key questions to consider.
How Has My Lifestyle Changed?
If you purchased a larger home when your family was growing, you might now find yourself an empty nester that no longer needs four bedrooms. Or maybe you wish you had a single-level home with no stairs and where the laundry room was closer to access. The upkeep, both inside and outside the house, is feeling cumbersome, and you can think of so many other things you’d rather be doing. If you find yourself agreeing with these statements, it’s time to consider downsizing.
Can A Mel Foster Co. Agent Help Me Prepare?
Connect with a Mel Foster Co. agent to discuss your moving goals. An agent can help you weigh your options, advise you on market trends and list your home on multiple listing services. Your agent can also provide you with a Competitive Market Analysis (CMA) to help you determine the most effective price for listing your home. Knowing your approximate sale proceeds will help create an accurate budget for buying your next home.
You can rely on your agent for advice on enhancing your home’s appeal to potential buyers and for finding a reputable staging source if needed. Agents can also connect you with reliable contractors if work needs to be done or photographers to capture images that best reflect your space. Agents can help you minimize your stress as you sell your home.
Why Could A Smaller Home Be Right For Me?
Downsizing can be a good way to cut down on expenses as you ease into retirement. Opting for a smaller home usually means a lower mortgage, less square footage to heat and cool, and may have lower maintenance costs. It means less yard to mow, leaves to bag, and weeds to pull. A smaller home often means fewer projects to complete giving you more time to spend doing things you really enjoy.
Plus, choosing to move on your terms has its merits. Move when you’re younger and healthier before life changes make it more difficult. Pass down family heirlooms you won’t need in a smaller home and enjoy watching the next generation appreciate these sentimental or functional items. Plan your next move now so you make the decisions and are able to choose your next home.
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