According to an Ameritrade survey, 42% of Americans plan to downsize in their retirement. Maintaining a home that’s often too big doesn’t make financial sense — not to mention that the upkeep can prove too much for most seniors. However, after decades spent in a loving home, moving can seem physically and emotionally taxing.
Here, Greenwald & Gerke walks you through preparing for your move.
The most critical step in planning your move is finding the perfect home. Narrow down on a location, and look for neighborhoods that fit your budget. You will also need to decide whether you wish to rent or own — surprisingly, it is often cheaper to rent a condo, home, or apartment for retirement!
You will also need to sell your current home, for which we suggest making upgrades to increase its appraisal value. Some upgrades such as flooring, window additions, and kitchen appliances will be evergreen in value. Do some research on which trends will work for your space and how you can integrate them into your budget. Many realtors are conducting virtual viewings post-pandemic, which will help sell your home without compromising your safety.
A big part of any move is decluttering. Letting go of beloved possessions can be challenging, especially if you have sentimental attachments to items. Use this easy system to simplify and organize your belongings:
● Give away: Trash it, donate it, or give the item away. If someone can’t provide a better home for it, then let it go. It’s better than bearing the burden of carrying it around with you.
● Document: If the fear of giving away the item is paralyzing, don’t despair. Take notes, pictures, and videos so that you’ll be able to keep track of your treasures.
Moving day can be emotional, so enlist all the help you can get! Rope in your loved ones to help with labeling, boxing, and organizing.
Double-check that you’ve packed everything important and that you’re leaving your old house in great condition. You might want to keep cleaning supplies handy to get your space sparkling clean and ready for living. If you’re enlisting the help of a moving company, make sure that your boxes are correctly labeled by room so they know where to unload them.
Empty your freezer and pantry, keep your documents and medicines handy, and pack your sanitizer and face masks. Pat yourself on your back because you’re finally ready for your first day in your new house!
We hope this article inspired you to get started on your new chapter. Although it may seem daunting at first, the more you get done, the sooner you’ll get to make your new space uniquely yours. Happy moving!
Is the thought of moving weighing you down? Greenwald and Gerke Realty Team specializes in helping older adults to navigate the sale of their homes with comfort and ease. Reach out to us at 844-782-9674 for more information today!
