Once I got over the initial anxiety of our boys surviving on their own away from home, I began to understand the wide-eyed question marks of being an empty nester– a different kind of anxiety. I found myself thinking – what will we do with this house when there are no kids in it? It felt too quiet, too big, too energy-absorbing. Where would we go? What will market conditions be like? What do I need to do to maintain the home’s value in the long term and balance that with our life? All the questions my clients ask me regularly came flooding to me. I took a couple deep breaths, put my advisor hat on and I suddenly knew all the answers.
We can’t control market conditions – good timing in your personal life is what should dictate a sale. Yes, we do need to maintain and update the home regularly to protect its value in the long term. And there will be viable options out there that will suit our new lifestyle and budget when the time comes. Deep breaths. We can do this. And to you, I say the same—if this planning starts early, there is no anxiety.
There is time to consider the possibilities, be honest with yourself on your priorities and work with a professional who can guide you through every aspect of the process, which you must trust. All families ebb and flow – A recent Zillow report found that on average, most people downsize around 55 years of age! Don’t be scared–the age of course does vary but if thoughts around children moving, retirement and a dream of a less chaotic lifestyle emerges, my best advice is to be proactive and planful. Being ahead of the decision vs reacting will serve you well. And always know that I am here for you, as your trusted real estate advisor, (in a quiet house for now) to hold your hand through the process.
Happy Summer! Hoping you stay cool and anxiety-free,
