Moving...How Do You Know When The Time Is Right For You?

If you're a senior and considering a move, when is the right time for the right move... how do you know when it's  right for you?

No two of us are the same, nor is every situation the same, however there are some common situations many seniors share.  Listed below are some of the more typical reasons someone would decide to move,  possibly "downsizing" a living environment.  Some may appear to be somewhat tongue-in-cheek, yet they're also very real.

• House is too large, too much to take care of, you'd like less responsibility, and have more time to enjoy yourself.   
• To move closer to family, see more of your grown kids and grandkids.
• To move further from the family, just too darn  much time spent taking care of the grandkids.   
• Or, you need to move, to get the last kid out of the house.
• Tired of continually fixing things...wanting to maintain your ndependence by not relying on family and friends for  repairs.
• Maybe you prefer a more active social life, and would prefer to be around others.     
• Health issues, tired of stairs,  need or prefer to have a single story home.
• Financial considerations, possibly free locked-up equity for remaining years while also maintaining other investments. 
• Divorce, it can happen at  any time of life. 
• Spending the kid's inheritance and do something just for yourself for a change.  This is time for you  to enjoy the "some-days" of your life, you've earned it!

So if you've decided the time is right, explore some of your choices. Here are just a few for seniors to consider:

Smaller home or condo, less to take care of and worry about.  

A "Golden Girls" home, sharing life with others.

A mobile home, financially affordable and little upkeep.

Travel time, on the road, in your motor home off to see the world.

Time for your Harley adventure on the road.  

You always wanted to live in a golf community.

Adult/senior condominium development, for a more social environment.

Perhaps assisted living, that is if health issues are a concern for your or family.

Move in with family, this could help you, or may help them.

Or... you may have another choice, if so we would love to hear from you!

 Going Solo...Or Family Ties?

At times, seniors moving can be a difficult move at best.  While other times it may be an absolute necessity.   If your home is the  "family homestead" be prepared.  This could be even more emotional on everyone in the family.   Adult children may or may not be in support of your move, yet it´s good to get another  opinion.  Also, don´t rule out the help of others; a trusted advisor, a very close friend and  professional peers.  Try to understand both sides of the issue and explore your options.  Remember, your decision may not be a popular choice.   Unless you have a compelling need to make the move, it´s also o.k. to delay your decision until the time is right. If you've made the decision, keep first things first.                            

Some agents will tell you it´s best to sell first, yet without a safety net, unless you have a back up plan, it´s risky.   Depending on the re-sale demand in the market-place, it can take 6 days to 6 months to sell your home.  Although it´s not easy to negotiate this type of sale, it can be accomplished.   In the event you have a fast sale, be prepared to be flexible and have a contingency plan in place.   Southern  California home sellers enjoyed a strong market  for in the early 2000's yet we all know that has changed. All the more reason to work with a pro, to work with a senior specialist. Work with a SRES, a senior real estate specialist.

Best advice:  Don´t be caught off guard. Have a plan and work with a Realtor who has experience all types of real estate markets, including this one!